Safety

Safety is important when using any tool. Be sure to know your tools and how to use them. Most injuries occur with tools because someone didn't know how to use them or used them in a manner that they were not meant to be used. Even a needle file can gouge or stab you if you are not careful. (I speak from personal experiance here!)

When you use a hacksaw, use a smooth even stroke and keep the blade straight. Don't force the saw through the wood or bone, or the blade could slip and/or break causing you injury. Remember that you don't have to use a lot of muscle with a hacksaw, just let the weight of the hacksaw work for you.

If you choose to use a woodburner to burn the symbols into the runes, be aware AT all times where it is, as it could cause a fire or you could be burned. It's a good idea to keep children and pets away when using a woodburner, when you're concentrating on your work it's hard to keep an eye on them and keep them safe.

Also, when sanding it is a good idea to wear a filter mask over your mouth and nose to keep from inhaling the dust. This is espeially true if you are working on bone. There is a disease called Knifemaker's Disease that is caused from inhaling bone dust and I hear it not very pleasant. Filter masks can be purchased at reasonable prices at a hardware store.

Remember to use good old common sense when using any tool.

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