Buffalo Horn Button Blanks

1. Harvesting the horn: Buffalo horns are typically harvested from domesticated water buffaloes. The horns are cut off close to the base, leaving about 2-3 inches of the skull attached for stability. 

2. Cleaning and curing: After harvesting, the horns are cleaned to remove any dirt, debris, or bacteria. They are then cured in a ventilated area for several days to remove any excess moisture. 

3. Cutting and shaping: Once the horns are cured, they are cut into smaller sections using a circular saw or bandsaw. The sections are then shaped into round or oval button blanks using a lathe machine. 

4. Drying: The button blanks are placed in a drying chamber for several days to remove any remaining moisture. This helps prevent warping or cracking during the next steps of the process. 

5. Polishing: The button blanks are then polished using sandpaper or a polishing wheel to create a smooth and shiny surface. 

6. Quality control: The finished button blanks are inspected for any imperfections or defects before being packaged and shipped to button manufacturers. 

7. Byproducts: The leftover horn scraps can be used for other purposes, such as making jewellery, combs, or other small accessories. Some manufacturers also use these scraps to make smaller button blanks.