Tooling fish scales

[Archangel79]

Does anyone know the best way to tool fish scales for a largemouth bass? My best idea was using a mule's foot, but I'm hoping that there is a better way of doing this. 

[JLSleather]

Depends on teh size of the carving.  On small fish, a "veiner" works well.  If you have bigger fish ta try ( ) maybe a mulefoot, or maybe swivel knife cuts, dependin also on the type of fish.

[Stewart]

  I use the mule foot. Depending on the size of the fish,to   I adjust the tip to fit. I also try to overlay the following line

The only problem I have is which way scales lay.

This is a 4-inch  leather.

Edited March 10, 2022 by Stewart

[Stetson912]

What Jls mentioned is also what al stohlman said in his figure carving finesse book. If you happen to have a copy (maybe check leathercraft library?) You can see examples and tool recomendations, page 112 I believe 

[suzelle]

On 3/10/2022 at 3:44 AM, Stewart said:

  I use the mule foot. Depending on the size of the fish,to   I adjust the tip to fit. I also try to overlay the following line

The only problem I have is which way scales lay.

This is a 4-inch  leather.

Your fish is wonderful!

[Samalan]

On 3/9/2022 at 10:55 PM, JLSleather said:

Depends on teh size of the carving.  On small fish, a "veiner" works well.  If you have bigger fish ta try ( ) maybe a mulefoot, or maybe swivel knife cuts, dependin also on the type of fish.

it 'a a beauty 

[Archangel79]

On 3/9/2022 at 10:55 PM, JLSleather said:

Depends on teh size of the carving.  On small fish, a "veiner" works well.  If you have bigger fish ta try ( ) maybe a mulefoot, or maybe swivel knife cuts, dependin also on the type of fish.

The piece in question is about 5"x7" with the largemouth taking up the majority of the panel.