Skeleton keys have a long and fascinating history. Learn all about these iconic keys and how to craft your own with this in-depth DIY guide.
A Brief History of Skeleton Keys
Skeleton keys date back to the 8th century AD and were widely used in Europe during medieval times. The term "skeleton key" comes from their simple, skeletal design.
These all-purpose passkeys became common from the 1700s to the early 1900s. The colonists brought skeleton keys to America, using them widely until more advanced locks were developed.
Skeleton keys were often used by:
- Locksmiths to help clients who had lost their keys
- Property owners and landlords to access tenant buildings
- Traveling salesmen needing entry for demonstrations
- Servants and custodians needing to move between rooms
- Railroad workers opening switches and access boxes
It‘s estimated over 60% of locks in the 17th and 18th centuries used basic warded locks opened by skeleton keys.
Though not as ubiquitous today, millions of warded locks still exist in older homes, furniture, chests, and other antique items. While newer lock technology has eliminated their need in most security applications, skeleton keys maintain their charm and functionality for hobbyists.
How Do Skeleton Keys Work?
Skeleton keys are able to open a variety of warded locks due to their shape and design. Here‘s a breakdown:
- They are cut from a blank metal keyway into a skeletonized shape
- This shape bypasses the internal wards (blocking projections) inside warded locks
- With the wards cleared, the key can fully insert and turn to retract the bolt
- Skeleton keys are able to ignore differing ward patterns and shapes
Warded locks operate like this:
- Key inserted – If the key matches the pattern of wards perfectly, it will fully insert into the keyway.
- Key turned – Turning the key moves the bolt and opens the lock.
Skeleton keys bypass step 1 by fitting over or around the wards thanks to their shape. This allows them to move on to step 2 and open the lock.
More advanced lock types use pins, springs and combination keys. These systems are very difficult or impossible for a basic skeleton key to pick or bypass.
Necessary Materials
Gather these essential items before making your skeleton key:
Key Blanks
- Made of soft, malleable metal like brass, copper or nickel
- Can be filed, cut and drilled with hand tools
- Blanks come in various shapes and sizes
Files
- Shaping and notching the keyway requires flat, round and triangle files
- A set of jewelers files covers all shapes needed
Drill & Bits
- A power drill allows drilling the key tip precisely
- Small bits from 1/16 – 1/8 inches are best
Sandpaper
- Higher grit (150+) smoothes edges after filing
Clamps
- A vise or locking clamp secures the key while working
Marker
- Outlines the key shape prior to cutting
Safety Gear
- Goggles protect eyes from flying fragments when filing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to craft a fully functional skeleton key:
Shape the Keyway
- Sketch a basic skeleton key shape on your chosen blank
- Secure blank tightly in a vise or clamps
- Use jewelers files to shape the keyway. Go slowly and test periodically in your lock as you get close to the final shape.
- Smooth any rough edges by rubbing with fine grit sandpaper using the grain
Drill the Tip
- Mark the center of the keyway tip
- Drill a 1/16"-1/8” hole where marked. Make sure the hole is slightly smaller than the lock’s latch diameter.
Troubleshoot the Keyway
Having trouble getting your key to work? Try these tips:
- File down more material from the widest part of the keyway to fit the lock
- Twist key gently during insertion to fit around wards
- Enlarge the tip hole slightly if the latch isn‘t retracting fully
- Add a slight angle on the keyway tip so it bypasses wards easier
Keep slowly adjusting and testing until your skeleton key rotates smoothly and fully unlocks the lock.
Finishing Touches
- Smooth out all rough areas with sandpaper
- Use metal polish to create a nice sheen
- Create a decorative bow, grip or handle
You now have a fully functional homemade skeleton key! Keep reading for more advanced tips.
Skeleton Key Types
Skeleton keys come in many shapes, sizes and styles. Here are some of the most common:
Key Type | Description |
---|---|
Normal skeleton key | Basic shape filed from key blank, bypasses most simple ward locks |
Ergo skeleton key | Shaped with finger grips and handles for easier twisting |
Fancy skeleton key | Ornately decorated bows and handles for decorative appeal |
Double-sided skeleton key | Can be inserted facing either direction thanks to symmetrical shaping |
When starting out, a standard skeleton key offers good versatility. Collectors and advanced makers can branch out into more complex skeleton key types.
Alternatives to Skeleton Keys
While fun to make and use, skeleton keys do have some limitations. Here are a few modern alternatives:
Lock Picking Tools
Lock picking involves manipulating the pins inside pin tumbler locks to mimic a real key. This requires special tools but allows you to open locks without any key at all. While challenging to learn, lock picking provides more flexibility and utility compared to skeleton keys alone.
Bump Keys
Bump keys have angled teeth designed to bump open pin tumbler locks. With proper technique, a light tap can often open the lock immediately. This speed makes them popular with locksmiths.
Locksmith Services
For maximum convenience and security, having a professional locksmith create a replacement key is advisable in most situations. They can provide extra copies and advice on improving your home‘s locks.
Smart Locks
Modern electronic smart locks use keypads, biometrics, smartphones, or remote controls. These advanced systems provide keyless convenience with much higher security than old mechanical locks. Upgrading homes and businesses to smart locks is a growing trend.
While skeleton keys have their niche uses, competitors like smart locks demonstrate newer lock technologies that are quicker, more secure, and just as convenient for the user.
Creative Uses for Skeleton Keys
Aside from unlocking doors and chests, consider these creative uses for homemade skeleton keys:
- Jewelry like necklaces, earrings, rings, cufflinks
- Steampunk costumes and props
- Escape room puzzles and clues
- Arts & crafts projects
- Sculptures and decorations
- Historical education programs
- Locksmithing practice locks
- Magic tricks and illusions
- Game tokens or pieces
- Wedding ceremonies or invitations
The classic skeleton key shape offers endless options for DIY projects. Grab some blank keys and put your imagination to work!
Advanced Skeleton Key Tips
Ready to master advanced locksmithing skills? Here are some expert tips:
Copy Existing Keys
With some practice, you can file blank keys to match existing keys and locks. This takes patience and trial and error but allows you to duplicate keys without any original on hand.
Make Coded Keys
Cutting an angled notch on your skeleton key creates a “coded” key that will only open a corresponding lock. This helps improve security.
Impression Skeleton Keys
Place a blank key into the lock and jiggle it forcefully. The wards will leave an "impression" that you then file to shape.
Pin Skeleton Keys
Adding pins to the side of your key can allow it to open pin tumbler locks in addition to warded locks. This greatly improves versatility.
Create Locks
You can also use your blank key to create the locking mechanism itself. Cut screw threads around the key blank and craft a custom lock box with corresponding threads in the shape of your key.
With persistence and ingenuity, you can craft skeleton keys for almost any lock type. But always practice responsible and ethical lock picking.
Final Thoughts
Skeleton keys provide a fun hands-on project for DIY enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates the mechanical elegance of locks. While learning to craft your own skeleton key requires some trial and error, the sense of satisfaction from unlocking a stubborn old lock makes it worthwhile.
Hopefully this guide has given you all the tips, history, and knowledge needed to start mastering skeleton keys. Just remember to use your new skills wisely. And as always, happy crafting!
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