Page:Embroidery and Fancy Work.djvu/145

Rh Horn can be stained to imitate tortoise shell as follows:—

Mix an equal quantity of quicklime and red lead, with strong soap suds or a solution of potash. Be very careful in using this mixture as it will burn your hands or clothes. Lay it on with a small brush, imitating the mottling of real tortoise shell. Give the horn several coats of this, letting it dry between each application. Then lay it for a few hours in vinegar and alum, wash it in clear water and polish. I have not tried it, but I fancy this horn so treated might be used for inlay work on papier maché in the same way that was described for mother of pearl. In connection with a tasteful use of gilding, very handsome articles could be made in this way.