If you are lucky enough to come across deer antler while walking in the woods, you may wonder what things you could make out of it. You might also be a hunter (or know one) who is willing to repurpose this fine trophy. Antler is a versatile and tough material with many uses. It was definitely used in medieval times for such things as knife handles and needles.
The interesting thing with antler and bone is that you can soften the material by soaking it in water for a few days. You can also use a mild acid like vinegar to soften it faster. As long as it stays wet, you can then manipulate it with basic carving tools, much like wood. When it dries out again it becomes just as hard as it originally was.