Practical Ideas for Deer Antler Sheds
Many deer have lost antlers by this time of year, and with a little luck you can find a few.
The key is to find the antlers before mice, squirrels and other critters get to them first and begin to chew on them for the nutrients they provide. The question many people have is what to do with the antlers once they find them.
There are so many cool things that can be created out of the sheds for both practical purposes and home decor. Everything from spoon handles, chandeliers, buttons, drawer handles, coat racks, antler baskets, pens and even dog chews are all good uses for deer antler sheds.
If you have a dog, you know they like to chew on things. Walk into just about any pet store these days and you will find a variety of dog chews. Topping that list in recent years are pieces of deer antlers. You don’t have to spend several dollars on something that you can find yourself. Once you find an antler that you would like to use as a dog chew, cut the antlers into manageable pieces 6 to 8 inches in length, and be sure to round off any sharp points that might cause harm.
Antler handles for knives, ladles and carving forks are gaining popularity. The “rustic” look is coming back in, and many people are using deer antlers to complement their kitchen utensils. Also, hunters like the look of a knife with an antler handle. You do not need a lot of tools to make these at home, and there are plenty of instructions online describing the process.
Does anyone play cribbage anymore? If you do, deer antlers make great cribbage boards. When you find an antler suitable in size for a cribbage board, making the board is easy. Holes drilled along the main antler beam support pegs for game play. Pegs are usually stored in the hollowed-out base of the antler. Even if you don’t play cribbage, the board would be a great conversation piece.
Antler lamps and chandeliers can sell for several hundred dollars, even thousands of dollars when bought at a store. There are plenty of instructions online to make your own chandelier and lamps, but they can be difficult.
A better option would be to take your antler collection to an expert in this field of chandelier and lamp making. For a fraction of the cost of purchasing one that was pre-made probably from reproduction antlers, you can have one made from the antlers you searched for and found. This is sure to brighten up any home.
Now that your interest might be piqued, get out and do some shed hunting. Most states don’t require a license, it provides excellent family time, beautifies your home and provides practical uses and maybe some much needed exercise after a long winter.
Know the Law
Most states do not require a license for shed hunting, but a few have “seasons” or permits. Utah, for example, requires shed hunters to complete a course and carry a permit to shed hunt. Some states prohibit you from collecting sheds in certain areas during specific time periods of the year. Many states also do not allow you to take antlers attached to the skull unless you report it. Check your state’s law before going.