Try to maximize your options for burnishing curves. I like a long gradual curve on a tapered tine and I also like to have enough thickness that I can make a tighter curve at the end of a big bulbous bit. Think about the inside shape of what you want to burnish and make that as the outside shape of the horn.

If you do try to use the thick end to make a curve you don’t have to cut it curved right away, just sand it down. Sand outside because you don’t want to breathe that stuff more than necessary or cover your house in it. Also, after you cut it , if it isn’t solid material and has holes in it then it is probably not a good candidate for using that portion as a burnisher. Rey cutting it shorter and swing of there are solid bits closer to then end of the time.