What Are Scrimshaws?
It is widely believed that the word “scrimshaw” evolved from a blend of Scandinavian, Dutch, and English slang associated with wasting time or a state of idleness. The term may also be linked to “scrimshank,” a piece of British military slang meaning to shirk work or avoid duties. Over time, this language of idleness became connected to the quiet, intricate craftwork sailors produced during long stretches at sea, eventually giving rise to the term we now know as scrimshaw.
Most people think of scrimshaws as carvings on whale teeth or bone, created by sailors during their spare time on whaling ships. However, the term actually encompasses a much wider range of handmade objects. Sailors crafted cane and umbrella handles, latches, wooden boxes, corset busks, and small decorative figures. Even those with limited ability in bone carving produced wooden pieces that were still considered scrimshaws. Ivory inlays were often traded between sailors to embellish these creations.
Life at Sea and Long Voyages
Life aboard a whaling ship was extremely demanding. Voyages often kept sailors away from home for three or four years, and long periods could pass between whale sightings. These stretches of inactivity left sailors with hours, and sometimes months, of spare time.
To maintain morale and keep their minds occupied, sailors turned to creating scrimshaws. Crafting offered a welcome distraction from the harsh living conditions and the monotony of life at sea.
Were Scrimshaws a Way for Sailors to Earn Money?
Although scrimshaws began as a pastime, they often became a valuable source of income for sailors.
Selling in Port
When ships eventually reached port, sailors frequently sold their scrimshaws to locals, traders, or collectors. Engraved whale teeth, decorative boxes, canes, and sewing tools were especially popular. This provided much-needed extra money, as whaling wages were notoriously low.
Bartering at Sea
Scrimshaws also served as a form of barter between sailors. Finely crafted pieces could be exchanged for tobacco, better clothing, extra rations, or other small luxuries, making them useful even while still at sea.
Post-Voyage Income
Some sailors continued carving after returning home, selling scrimshaws at markets or to maritime collectors. A few even became known locally for their craftsmanship, earning additional income between voyages.
So while scrimshaws were originally a way to pass time, they often played a meaningful role in a sailor’s financial life as well.
Scrimshaw Designs and Craftsmanship
The most popular materials for scrimshaws were whale teeth and ivory bone, with the tooth of the sperm whale being especially prized. Sperm whale teeth were plentiful and small enough to store in a sailor’s sea chest for the duration of the voyage.
To create a piece of scrimshaw, sailors typically followed this process:
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Smooth the tooth or bone using sharkskin or pumice
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Polish it to a high shine
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Engrave the design using a knife or a sailcloth needle
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Rub soot, grease, or gunpowder into the lines so the image stood out clearly
Typical scrimshaw designs included whaling scenes, ships, sea creatures, the ship’s captain, or portraits of loved ones back home.
Scrimshaws Today
Today, scrimshaws remain highly valued as a unique form of maritime folk art. Collectors are drawn to their craftsmanship, history, and deep connection to nautical life.
Footnote
Historical and Ethical Note:
Scrimshaws were created during a time when commercial whaling was common and unregulated, and when ivory from whales and other species was widely used. Today, we recognise the immense harm caused by these practices. Lovesail does not support or condone whaling, the ivory trade, or any activity that exploits marine mammals or endangered species.
Modern scrimshaw artists use only alternative, ethically sourced, or synthetic materials. This article discusses scrimshaws purely within their historical context.
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