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How to Polish Cattle Horns

In many areas of the U.S., including Texas and other Southern states, the horns of cattle are removed and used for decorative purposes. Before these horns can be utilized, however, they should be polished for the best possible appearance. Polishing cattle horns is a simple process and can be done quickly if the proper tools are readily available.

Things You'll Need

Razor blade
Woolen cloth
Cotton cloth
Pumice powder
Water
Rotten stone
Linseed oil
Flour

Instructions

- 1
  Scrape the cattle horn gently with a razor blade to remove any rough areas. Lay the horn on its side and carefully graze it with the blade to avoid adding any scrapes or scratches.
- 2
  Buff the entire surface of the horn using a woolen cloth. Continue this for several minutes, focusing on any areas that may still be rough after you applied the razor blade.
- 3
  Dip a wet cloth into pumice powder. Buff the entire surface of the horn with the cloth for several minutes.
- 4
  Apply several drops of linseed oil on the surface of the horn. Polish the horn's surface using a rotten stone, a fine powdered rock that is used as an abrasive for polishing.
- 5
  Apply dry flour to the horn. Wipe the horn's surface clean using a dry rag. Make sure that the horn is completely clean at this point.

Animals & Science