About Faux Bone
What is Faux Bone™?
Faux Bone™ is a completely non-toxic, high grade rigid PVC that does not outgas (produce fumes) when heated properly. Because it is malleable at just below 250 degrees it can be heat formed into just about any shape. It was founded by artist Robert Dancik of Crackerdog Designs.
What is inspiring about Faux Bone™?
I find the fact that unlike materials such as silver, gold, ceramic - Faux Bone™ has no history and no references. Therefore the only information that gets onto the Faux Bone™ comes from me. It is truly a blank canvas waiting for my self expression to inform it. It can have the flexibility of wire, the functionality of metal and showcase beautiful color like beads… the best of all worlds in one material. When heated, it can be tangled and twisted, knotted and even crocheted. When solid, it has the properties of metal in that it is nearly unbreakable and can be drilled into, sawed, and easily connected with nuts and bolts and rivets and screws.
Are there different types of Faux Bone™?
All of the Faux Bone™ products are made from the same material, they just come in different sizes and shapes. The 1/16th inch Faux Bone™ can be cut using a good pair of shears and comes in a wide variety of strip widths and lengths, which is why it is especially user friendly. Although the 1/8”, 1/4” and 1/2” shapes and sheets require a jewelers saw, they can be cut easily using special, nearly unbreakable Faux Bone™ saw blades.
Are there any safety considerations?
Other than preventing the material from going above 290°, there are few concerns. Like all artist materials, common sense safety should be followed;
- Anytime you file or sand a material you should wear a safety mask to prevent inhaling particles
- Prevent burns by wearing light cotton gloves when heating the product, and be sure to never put anything flammable in your toaster oven, such as Gilder’s Paste or sealants that are not dry
- Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes
- Read all directions carefully for handling inks, polishes, sealants and other items you may use with Faux Bone™
Other than preventing the material from going above 290 degrees, there are few concerns. Like all artist materials, common sense safety should be followed. Though even the dust from Faux Bone™ is completely non-toxic, anytime you sand any material it’s a good idea to wear a safety mask. Light cotton gloves are all that is necessary when handling the warmed Faux Bone™. While Faux Bone™ itself is not flammable in a toaster oven, Gilder’s Paste, un-dried sealants and similar materials may be so caution should be exercised when using these with Faux Bone™.
Find more information about Faux Bone™ in our Tutorial section.