What is pyrography and how to get started

The word "pyrography" comes from the Greek words "pyro," meaning fire, and "graphos," meaning writing.

Pyrography, also known as wood burning, is a form of art that uses a hot tool (similar to a soldering iron) to burn designs into wood by using heat to burn the surface.

this technique has been used for centuries by artists all over the world, and it continues to be a popular form of artistic expression today.

One of the advantages of pyrography is that it is a relatively inexpensive art form. A basic pyrography pen can be purchased for a reasonable price, and wood is readily available in many stores. This makes it accessible to anyone who wants to try their hand at this art form.

keep reading to learn how to start the art of pyrography.

safety first:

Please take a moment and make sure to review the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the tool you are using and wear your safety gear when burning!! check out this blog post for extra tips on how to keep yourself safe while you burn: how to wood burn safety

A quick start guide to pyrography

Step one:

in order to get started, all you essentially need is a tool and a surface to burn on.

If you need help knowing which tools is right for you, check out my community website with a rundown on how to choose a wood burning tool.

Everyone likes different nibs for different reasons. I found that general the favourite was the ball point nib or a writing nib (these have round tips so they tend to write like an actual pen and don’t get stuck to the wood). If you don’t have the budget to try a variety, start with this one.

I also created a list of best woods to burn on for all skill levels.

Oh and you will also need an idea of WHAT you want to burn! You can dive into burning freehand, you can draw your design on the wood slice with a pencil and burn over your lines with the hot tool or you can transfer a design onto your wood slice.

DESIGNS AND TEMPLATES:

If you want a design to practice with, check out my freebies page, grab a one of my Community Template Books or visit the templates store full of individual patterns for sale.

step two:

transferring your design/template onto wood:

if you are not drawing directly on your wood slice and you are not freehand burning, transferring a template is your next choice. You can learn how to transfer your design here: how to transfer a design onto wood: top three ways

step three:

heat up your tool by plugging it in and turning it on. some burners heat up super quickly and some take a little longer, so test out your pen on a scrap wood before you begin.

make sure to wear your safety gear and follow the safety guidelines.

step four:

once you’re ready to burn, start at a low/medium heat point if you have the option. here are some tips to remember when burning:

• go slow: seriously, go much slower than you think.

• stay consistent: keep your speed consistent. staying in one place will cause a blob burn and moving too quickly will give you thin inconsistent lines.

• don’t press hard: not a lot of pressure is needed so make sure to let the heat do the work for you.

• play around with the heat: try different heat settings and see which one resonates with you. some people like to burn fast and hot, some prefer slower and lower… p.s. fast and hot is still a slow process but in detailed areas, you will need to be super extra fast if burning hot so when in doubt, start low and build up the heat to where you like it.

• play around with different nibs: if you have the option, switch your nibs around and try all of them.

• pushing versus pulling your pen: try both ways. after time, I am able to move the tool in all directions, but when starting out, pulling is generally easier because you’re not fighting with the wood by pushing, rather, you are dragging it along the surface by pulling.

step 5:

Once wood burning is complete, use a sand eraser to remove any pencil marks or graphite lines still showing. Check out: How to get rid of mistakes and graphite/pencil lines.

you can choose to finish your piece or leave it raw, but otherwise you are finished! woohoo!

One of the advantages of pyrography is that it is a relatively inexpensive art form. A basic pyrography pen can be purchased for a reasonable price, and wood is readily available in many stores. This makes it accessible to anyone who wants to try their hand at this art form.

Pyrography can be used to create a wide range of items, from small decorative pieces like keychains and plaques to larger items like furniture and wall art. It is a versatile art form that allows artists to express their creativity in many different ways. Check out my pinterest board full of ideas of what to burn next.

In addition to creating beautiful artwork, pyrography has some practical applications as well. It can be used to mark and label items, such as tools and equipment, and it is often used by woodworkers to add decorative details to their projects.

THe slowness and satisfaction of burning something really is like a meditative journey for me. I hope you enjoy the art of pyrography as much as I do!

best woods to burn on

Wood is the most common surface for pyrography! it is available almost everywhere and is definitely a great place to start if you are new to wood burning.

Always look for unfinished, sanded smooth, and dried wood. These are musts for pyrography.

There are also some woods you should absolutely avoid and that list, you can find here.

And onto what you will want to burn on! Below are the top wood surfaces to burn on according to Rachel and my own experiences as well as from polling hundreds of pyrographers in the Burn Club community.

Please note there are affiliate links below. i always link to products i know and love and personally have used myself!

Top 9 Wood Surfaces to Burn On

BASSWOOD

Basswood is a very common wood species that is easy to find and easy to burn on.

It is a favorite amongst pyrographers because of its availability, light color (creating nice contrast with burn lines) and for the way it burns. It is easy and smooth to burn on.

The grain is visible, but still smooth. It doesn’t effect your burn. The even light color makes it the perfect canvas for wood burning. It is easily found with the very classic tree bark live edge, making perfect rustic rounds. Oh and the color of the wood only darkens slightly when adding any finishes.

The bonus with basswood is that because it is commonly available, it comes in loads of different shapes, sizes, live edge, no live edge, thick or thin, etc… We know and love Walnut Hollow for their variety of wood as well as the quality! Get 15% off your order using the coupon code: WBC15 - Walnut Hollow’s collection of Basswood are always sanded smooth and are ready to burn on:

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CHERRY

Cherry smells amazing when burning and is such a lovely wood to burn on. There are many variations (color and grain) which may be distracting for some, but for others, this adds character.

It has a warm, reddish tone, rich color to it, and you can create beautifully detailed pyrography art on it at a slightly higher heat setting (or slower pace).

Be careful in adding any finishes (stains or even colourless oils and sealers), as cherry wood darkens quite a bit. You can still see the burn lines, but it decreases the contrast the pyrography marks make.

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BIRCH

Birch is a harder in structure, when it comes to pyrography, which means you either turn up the heat or move slower with it. Because it is a harder wood, it allows for incredible details.

Even though it is slightly harder to burn on, it still has beautiful qualities like the light blonde color, stunning white live edge bark and subtle grain lines that don’t interfere with the burning. It typically has a bright, creamy-white color or yellowish tint and a satin-like sheen to its finish which makes for nice contrast when burning.

Basia enjoys burning on end grain, like on this round live edge wood slice above, especially when the wood slice has the bark in tact. Rachel prefers face grain wood which has the grain running across the entire wood slice.

In general, birch trees aren't as big (or thick) as other hardwoods, so the slices you get from them usually aren't big either. Because of this, companies make birch wood plywood. As with ANY plywood, these planks use a lot of glues which can be dangerous to burn on. Always wear the safety gear, no matter what.

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ASPEN

Aspen burns very similar to basswood in our experience, but isn’t just one solid color. It has lovely variations in color to it. The rounds tend to have more colors and variations so if that doesn’t work for you or your design, try a face grain cut slice (the planks versus the rounds). Not sure what face grain is? Check out our Intro to Wood as a Pyrography Artist blog post to learn more.

Aspen is softer when burning making it feel buttery smooth and satisfying.

The grain are subtle and you can barely feel them at all when burning.

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WALNUT

Walnut is such a juicy wood to burn on. It has a lovely medium/dark brownish color to it, and smells amazing when you burn it, however it is more on the expensive side.

This is one of those woods that soaks up finishes and darkens quite a bit when you put any finishes. This could make your lines and shading not as visible… Any light shading will disappear.

However, add a finish to this and just watch the natural grain pop and shine; So much dimension in this wood species!

The grains are visible but don’t interfere with burning.

Here is an example of a cherry wood slice with resin on it. The colour is rich and beautiful but if your design has light shading, it could disappear after a finish is applied!

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MAPLE

Maple is one of Rachel’s personal favorites to burn on. She love the subtle grain in it (which does not get in the way of burning), and the color of the wood makes a great canvas.

It is harder than basswood, and is just lovely to burn on at a slightly higher heat. It is nice and lightly colored, lending itself well for pyrography. Finishes will darken the surface but not very much so you will not loose your work.

Maple is a bit more costly than basswood, but is worth it.

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SOURWOOD

Sourwood is one of Basia’s favourites due to the large and intricate live edge bark on it. The bark is so stunning, it creates it’s own frame of sorts!

The surface is lighter in color making a great canvas for burning and even though it is a hardwood, with some patience, higher heat and a slower pace, it is still a pleasure to burn on.

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POPLAR

Poplar is another great choice for wood burning. It is another light colored option, although often it has a green tone to it which not everyone likes. There is a process you can take to get rid of this but it must be completed after you burn (because burning on the treatment is dangerous) and may require a bit of sanding so ensure your burn lines are fairly deep.

The grains can get in the way a bit, but otherwise it is a fairly smooth burn. It is quite similar to maple, but less expensive. A great choice for pyrography and very accessible and cheap.

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CEDAR

Cedar smells amazing to burn with. It has a beautiful rich red color in the center and a lighter color on its edges.

It burns really nicely and is lovely to work with because is a softer wood. It feels like butter. It is always the wood Basia chooses for practising on when she is letting new students understand pyro tools and the variety of nibs and what they can do because you require less control when the wood is softer, can burn at a higher temperature, therefore allowing you to play around a little.

Beware when staining, that red color deepens quite a bit, so always practice before adding a finish to a cedar wood burned piece.

A great place to learn more about your favorite wood types is at wood-database.com - here you will find all the specs you need!

Runner-up Wood Surfaces to Burn On

1. Beech

2. Cork

3. Ash

4. Mahogany

5. Alder

6. Sycamore

7. Cypress

8. Willow

Check out the DO NOT BURN ON list here.

Always wear a mask and follow safety precautions when burning on any type of wood or alternative surface. This is super important regardless of wood type.

How to transfer a design onto wood: Top Three Ways

my favourite three ways to transfer a design onto wood (from least to best) are:

1. graphite pencil

2. graphite paper

3. heat

For all methods, one thing is for sure: prepare your wood slice for a more clear and precise transfer by sanding the surface.

Ensure that the wood surface is clean and smooth. If needed, sand it lightly to create an even texture for a better transfer.


ALSO, for all methods, another thing is for sure: wear your safety gear when burning!! Check out this blog post to keep yourself safe while you burn:

How to wood burn safety

ONE: graphite pencil

This is the most simple and inexpensive way to transfer a design:

Using a graphite pencil to transfer a design onto wood is a cheap and versatile method that allows you to transfer almost any design onto wood with minimal tools. the hardness of the pencil will matter here; The softer (10b is much softer than 10h).

1. flip your paper over and rub your graphite pencil all over the back of the design. ensure all the white spots are gone and that the graphite pencil covers the back of the entire design.

2. next, flip your paper over again so the pencil you just shaded with is on the wood and your design is facing up.

3. position it on your wood slice and trace over your design. Your pressure should be fairly strong but do not press too hard or you may dent the wood. This will transfer the lead onto the wood and leave you with your design you can burn! peak underneath from time to time without moving around your design to check if it has transferred.

then you’re ready to burn! once you’ve burned your design, you may be left with extra graphite lines… check out: how to get rid pyrography mistakes and transfer lines

pro’s: you only need a pencil

con’s: it takes some time to cover the back of your design with lead/graphite and then you then you need to re-trace your original design.

This also means your design needs to be on a thinner paper (thick paper will be more difficult to transfer).

and this method could curl your paper and damage your design. you can use it a couple times over, but the original design will not be the same.

two: graphite paper

To transfer a design onto wood using graphite paper is easy and fairly cheap. Grab graphite paper though - not carbon paper as carbon paper is harder to remove after you are done. I like to use this graphite paper from walnut hollow or this roll for larger pieces.

follow these steps for an easy transfer:

1. Position the design (facing up): Place the design on top of the wood surface in the desired position. secure it with tape to prevent it from moving during the transfer process. I like to use washi tape because it sticks well but is also easy to remove from the wood (and most paper).

2. slide the graphite paper under your design: Take the graphite paper and position it between the design and the wood surface. The graphite side (usually the darker side) should face the wood. make sure the graphite is under the entire design (where you will be tracing).

3. Trace the design: Using a pencil or a ballpoint pen, carefully trace over the lines of the design. if you do not want to damage your design you can also use a dotting tool. Apply enough pressure to transfer the graphite onto the wood, but not so much that you damage the paper or wood surface. also, the harder you press, the harder it will be to remove excess graphite from the wood!!

4. Check the transfer before you get too far: Lift a corner of the design and graphite paper to see if the transfer is happening effectively. make sure you do not move the design out of place during the sneak peak. If you can see the markings, continue tracing until the entire design has been transferred.

5. Remove the design and graphite paper: I like to check if everything has transferred first then I Gently lift the design and graphite paper from the wood surface.

then you’re ready to burn! once you’ve burned your design, you may be left with extra graphite lines… check out: how to get rid pyrography mistakes and transfer lines

watch the video below to see a neat way to save your designs! I used tracing paper to get the design out of the book (The community book of templates! This little snail is Maria Johnson’s design from volume 2).

pro’s: you only need graphite paper which is cheap and can be reused over and over.

con’s: you still need to go over your entire design with a pen or dotting tool - this can be a lot of work if your design is very large or complex.

three: using heat to transfer your design:

Transferring a design onto wood using heat is quick and efficient. To begin, ensure the chosen design is printed using a laser printer and in reverse if there is lettering.

1. Position the design (facing down): Place the design on top of the wood surface in the desired position. secure it with tape to prevent it from moving during the transfer process. again, I like to use washi tape because it sticks well but is also easy to remove from the wood (and most paper). try not to cover any part of your design as it won’t transfer as well.

2. heat up your tool. i like to use the walnut hollow versa tool with the transfer nib or the shading point (sold separately). an iron will work just as well, however it may take longer and you may need to press a bit harder because it doesn’t get as hot as a pyrography tool. Essentially you need a flat hot end. Try a medium level first. Be careful, if it’s too hot, you may burn the paper.

3. transfer the design: use some pressure (check underneath to see how well its transferring) but do not stop moving. I like to use short lines, back and forth. If you stop in one spot, you may burn the paper. if nothing is transferring, slowly turn up the heat and keep moving while checking under the paper to see how well the transfer is working.

4. Check the transfer before you get too far: Lift a corner of the design to see if the transfer is happening effectively. make sure you do not move the design out of place during the sneak peak. If you can see the markings, continue using your heat tool until the entire design has been transferred.

5. Remove the design: I like to check if everything has transferred first then I Gently lift the design and graphite paper from the wood surface.

I hope you enjoyed using one of these methods to transfer your designs onto wood.

Want some traceable pyrography patterns??

If you are looking for some free designs you can practice with, check out our freebies page.

For more beautiful patterns, check out our traceable template books.

Or you can purchase individual unique designs (royalty free ones too).

Presence; A colouring book and guide to drawing radial symmetry

this book is a radial symmetry guide as well as a colouring book providing a gateway to a world of mesmerizing patterns, relaxing mindfulness and endless creativity.

For all you pyrography artists, the 25 designs are also made for traceability so you can transfer/trace and burn them! Instructions to that are included on the initial download with the digital version.

designed to help both novices and seasoned artists explore the captivating realm of radial symmetry, this book guides you step-by-step through the creation of intricate and balanced designs. the first half of the book dives into all the details from making a grid, to 7 different creative variations of a circular pattern.

the intention is to give you the knowledge and easy to follow instructions for you to continue making one-of-a-kind radial symmetry patterns using only a few basic tools.

it includes 3 blank grids for you to practice on and doodle in!

It also includes 6 blank outlines for more practice and doodling!

as well as a simple exercise to get your creativity flowing.

The second half of the book has 25 original patterns for you to color and reimagine. inspired by the Art Deco and art nouveau artistic movements, The intention with these finished patterns is the get you inspired, relaxed and also hone in your artistic skills.

grab your favourite colouring tools, let your imagination soar, and get ready for a transformative artistic journey!

or

Download a digital copy to easily resize any design in the book and wood burn onto a wood slice using the art of pyrography!

what is a mandala?

A mandala is a geometric and symmetrical pattern that represents the universe in Hinduism and Buddhism. The word "mandala" originates from the Sanskrit language and means "circle." However, mandalas are not limited to circular designs and can also take the form of squares or other shapes.

a mandala is a Radially symmetric pattern.

radial symmetry patterns are typically created starting from the centre point and flowing outward with a repeating pattern and have played a significant role in various cultures throughout history.

In ancient Greece, patterns were found in temples and artwork, embodying ideals of balance and perfection. Islamic art showcased radial symmetry in its art and architecture, symbolizing unity and interconnectedness of all things. Buddhist mandalas, acted as spiritual gateways to inner peace and enlightenment. Indian rangoli art brought vibrant colors and radial symmetry together to celebrate auspicious occasions and promote harmony. Indigenous cultures embraced radial symmetry in their pottery, beadwork, and basketry, infusing their creations with a deep connection to nature and spiritual beliefs. Chinese art, rich in symbolism, employed radial symmetry to represent balance and the cyclical nature of existence.

Across cultures, radial symmetry has transcended both time and geography. It has universally expressed the beauty that underlies our diverse human experience.

it has been said that mandalas are a of the universe with an inner and outer world.

according to mandala mind

a mandala is a sphere with a midpoint, and displays a field of elements, which are interconnected and express different facets of human life and the mind.

orderly chaos principal

this is the theory of Chogyam Trungpa

the book description is as follows: “According to the mandala principle, a prominent feature of tantric Buddhism, all phenomena are part of one reality. Whether good or bad, happy or sad, clear or obscure, everything is interrelated and reflects a single totality. As Chogyam Trungpa explains in this work, from the perspective of the mandala principle, existence is orderly chaos. There is chaos and confusion because everything happens by itself, without any external ordering principle. At the same time, whatever happens expresses order and intelligence, wakeful energy and precision. Through meditative practices associated with the mandala principle, the opposites of experience-confusion and enlightenment, chaos and order, pain and pleasure-are revealed as inseparable parts of a total vision of reality.”

personally, I love and agree with the idea that everything is one.

I believe that nothing can exist without everything all at once - we cannot feel true happiness if we have never felt sadness. you will not feel true joy if you haven’t ever felt any despair….

what is radial symmetry to me?

a radial symmetry pattern to me is the end result of a mindfulness journey.

It is what I get at the end of a creative meditation, a zone out, a doodle session (whatever you want to call it!) i use drawing a mandala as a form of meditation as the repetitive patterns I make help me zone out and immerse myself in each second.

want to learn to draw your own mandala-inspired art?

check out this book, complete with instructions and templates you can use for colouring and/or pyrography!

DIY radial symmetry and pyrography book

look inside the book

how to start wood burning: 5 simple ways

the art of pyrography is a fun and versatile hobby.

I wish more information was available when I started out… but this is exactly why I am sharing all my knowledge and resources. I want to share the love of wood burning with anyone interested!

there are a few ways I would recommend starting this relaxing hobby:

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one

check out my quick-start guide

this is a quick guide to get you through the basics of pyrography.

why I made this guide

pyrography is a mindfulness practice like no other. it’s gotten me through difficult times when I needed to mentally escape reality… I want to share this peace of mind practice with the world!

see the blog post

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two

take an in-person class

another recommendation to learn the art of pyrography is to take a class! I am teaching live in-person pyrography classes that also can include (if you wish) learning the relaxing art of mandala making. let me know if you choose to learn wood burning with another design.

classes are held at my home or at my family's woodworking shop in ontario, canada 🇨🇦

for anyone in the Portland, Oregon area, 🇺🇸 click here to contact Rachel at Wood Burn Corner

learn to burn in-person

you will be creating a one-of-a-kind mandala (or whatever image you want) with instructions and support using a custom-made grid.

then, you will learn the basics of pyrography and will wood burn the mandala you drew onto a wood slice for you to take home!

learn to burn in-person

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three

take an online class

these pre-recorded classes are great for all levels and will guide you from start to finish!

learn to burn online

contact me for an online class

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four

join the pyrography club!

burn club is a free subscription to a newsletter featuring artists and includes some pyrography knowledge and essentials, community news and happenings as well as featured artists in the community and more!

this is where to get the rundown of events, community happenings, templates, tips and tricks for wood burning and so much more!

why I joined the burn club

not only was I able to learn a ton of tips and tricks of the trade but I also made some really great friends along the way!

i’ve learned so much from the community and love to keep up with any challenges, news and events.

learn more about the club

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five

the razertip starter kit

the wood burn box is a starter box that includes all the tools and materials you need - a great gift for those looking to try pyrography.

it makes it super simple to start. the box includes:

• a wood burning tool

• a pen with a couple different tip options for you to find your favourite

• cleaning tool

• and a guide!

why I like this starter box

this box makes it easy to start wood burning with no experience.

everything you need to get started, right when you open the box!

get the kit

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The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - RADIAL SYMMETRY EDITION

drum roll please…

I cannot believe it but it’s here!! A pyrography and radial symmetry template book that includes instructions on how to draw your own patterns AND burn them!!

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - Radial Symmetry Edition features pyrography design patterns created by the community for the community. It showcases 50+ original templates from 20 wood burning artists from around the globe, with the intention of helping artists of all skill levels past, present, and future to hone their craft, try new styles, and make beautiful art through collaboration. This collection of designs includes a variety of patterns in radial symmetry style.

Check out #thewoodburncommunitybook on instagram to view completed projects from all the template books!

Easily size and print the designs to match the wood you already have by downloading the digital version

Basia Chmielowiec guides you with step-by-step instructions on how to make your own radial symmetry patterns and includes 7 different creative variations. Her intention is to give you the knowledge and instructions for you to continue making one-of-a-kind radial symmetry patterns.

Plus, she includes 3 ready-made outlines for you to practice on or doodle in!

Rachel Strauss, author of The Wood Burn Book and the original Wood Burn Community Book of Templates Volume One and Two, founder of Burn Club, Burn Club+ and Wood Burn Corner, includes a basic wood burning quickstart guide, and provides you with a list of essential materials needed for pyrography. She offers information on getting involved in the community, before presenting you with a feast of artwork, each begging to become your next creation!

check out this flip through:

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Check out all the books!

template books, pyro project inspiration books and more!

see more books

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shop individual templates

check out our collection of templates you can purchase individually on woodburncorner.com

individual templates shop

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wood burning safety

wood burning can be a safe hobby when you follow the guidelines and safety precautions.

too many times I see artists not using a mask and burning their art without any proper ventilation. although you may not see any side effects from doing this right away, you should be warned that there may be long term effects that can be avoided!!

smoke is smoke. period.

it is not good for you to be breathing the fumes in! or allowing them to go into your eyes and the rest of the house where others are breathing it too.

please, please, please keep yourself and those around you safe by following the safety precautions set by the wood burning tool manufacturer. Below is what I do on top of the manufacturee’s precautions:

below are affiliate links to products I actually use and love! you can also visit my safety section on amazon for more items to stay safe while burning.

here is what I make sure to do for safety:

• burn in a well ventilated area

• switch on my winix air purifier that cleans the air in the entire room. it has a carbon filter and a heap filter. seriously, this thing works really well!! my house smells like it has all the windows open!

• switch on my small air purifier (with carbon filter) that I place near me to suck the smoke directly away from my face. (here is a great smaller portable one). you can also use any regular cheap fan, especially if you are using the large air purifier. turn your fan backwards near your pen/tool in order for the smoke to be sucked away. pointing it at your pen will cool it down and won’t allow you to burn efficiently.

• always wear a proper mask (rated p95 or higher). my favorite company is rzmask! not only are their masks super comfy, but the have changeable carbon filters so they are better for the environment.

another thing to keep note of is how you position your body and head when you burn. are you one of those people who like to get real close with they face to see what you’re burning? the best case scenario is to tilt the wood slice towards you and have your face further away, not right above the rising smoke.

my community pyrography hub is woodburncorner.com —> grab your free safety guide here for even more tips and tricks to reduce accidents and stay safe while burning.

did you know…

the materials you are burning on emit different toxins depending on what they are made of. some are more toxic than others. so for instance, burning on raw wood can be safe (with the proper gear) but not all raw wood emits the same toxins. there are wood species that are very dangerous for your health, even if you use all the safety precautions and Click here for a list of woods that are ideal for pyrography!

always research your materials to understand what toxic chemicals may be present and whether those chemicals are released when heat is applied.

common wood types you should never burn on:

• driftwood: burning salt-saturated driftwood is a bad idea as it can release toxic or harmful chemicals when burned, according to the EPA.

• green wood: this type of wood isn’t a species, it is the state of the wood. meaning it’s not completely dry. once a tree is cut down, it needs to be seasoned for 6 to 9 months to become completely dry. burning on this will create a lot of smoke and will take much longer, the process will be even slower than regular pyrography.

• wet, rotted, diseased, or moldy wood

• plywood, particle board, chipboard, wood pallets or any wood with glue on or in it: do not burn on anything man-made. this includes wood that has been stained, sealed or treated with any kind of glues or oils (even if they are natural oils). if you mix your media (like I do with water marbling) make sure to wood burn first and then add other mediums.

• craft store wood: many stores sell wood for crafting with but the majority of the time those wood slices are intended to be embellished with paint, chalk or other mediums and are not meant for pyrography!

• wood with with "poison" in the name: burning poison ivy, poison sumac, poison oak, or pretty much anything else with the word "poison" in it’s name releases the irritant oil urushiol into the smoke. breathing it in can cause lung irritation and severe allergic respiratory problems, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

• the yew tree (Taxus baccata) and a related species common to gardeners, Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata) is known to be one of the most poisonous woody plants in the world, with all components of the tree, excepting the fleshy red part of the berry containing lethal amounts of taxine, a toxic alkaloid found in the yew.

• oleander shrubs: these thrive in frost-free climates and every part of it is toxic. Definitely don’t burn it in any way - don’t even use a branch to toast your marshmallow on.

• mexican pepper: also known as Brazilian pepper wood, it is similar to poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac, the leaves and bark contain urushiol, a toxic oil that causes serious rashes and allergic reactions.
  

in short. if you feel any dizziness or headaches coming on while burning, stop and assess your situation. do some research. reach out to me or ask another pyro professional!

always check what you are burning on before you burn. I like to use the wood-database.com for a quick look up and do a little more research if I don’t get enough Information from there.

When in doubt, choose a wood species from this list of best wood for pyrography to ensure you are safe and burning on wood that works great with pyrography.

happy and safe burning my friends!

want to learn more about pyrography??

take an in-person class or learn online!

grab the wood burning toolkit to learn online at your own pace with resources, instructional videos and more.

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sources:

https://www.wood-database.com/wood-articles/wood-allergies-and-toxicity/

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/a20705861/kinds-of-wood-not-to-burn/

https://wooddad.com/what-wood-is-toxic-to-burn/

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/burning-oleander-produce-poisonous-smoke-75289.html

https://www.epa.gov/burnwise/best-wood-burning-practices

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-118/default.html

Learn to wood burn and draw radial symmetry patterns!

learning about radial and symmetry design principles can greatly improve an artist's ability to create visually striking and harmonious compositions. Radial designs are based on circular or spiral patterns that radiate out from a central point, while symmetry designs are based on mirroring patterns around a central axis. both principles can be used to create balanced and aesthetically pleasing compositions that draw the viewer's eye.

pyrography is a unique and fascinating medium that can produce stunning results when used correctly. by learning the techniques and best practices for pyrography, artists can add a new dimension to their creative repertoire and explore the possibilities of working with wood or other materials.

the tutorial will cover important technical aspects of drawing your own radial symmetry patterns as well as pyrography, such as selecting the right tools, working with different types of wood, and achieving different effects through varying the temperature and pressure of the pyrography tool. This technical knowledge can be essential for achieving the desired results in a pyrography piece and can save artists time and frustration in the long run.

join Rachel and I of wood burn corner and LEARN THESE CREATIVE AND RELAXING ART FORMS!

Learn to wood burn + make your own DIY radial symmetry designs and transfer them onto wood!

Or grab them separately!

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Step-by-step instructions on how to wood burn and pyrography basics like safety, techniques and more (free template emailed when you register)

• Step-by-step instructions on how to create your own radial symmetry patterns and transfer them onto wood!

• A list of resources will be provided so you can get all the tools, materials and information you need to create unique works of art.

RESOURCES AND TOOLS

Join us with your pyrography tools, a wood slice and a design (included in your purchase or you can bring your own) if you plan on burning along with us for intro to wood burning. Make sure to print the template sized to your wood, along with graphite paper to transfer it onto the slice.

If you don’t have any pyrography tools or materials and want to burn with us, check out the DIY Wood Burning Kit blog post for resources and links on where to purchase everything you need to get wood burning.

All you need for drawing your own radial symmetry pattern is a piece of paper, pen/pencil, a compass (we can improvise), and a ruler (also optional)!

How to get rid pyrography mistakes and transfer lines

Mistakes. They happen. You can not easily “edit + undo” in pyrography but there are a couple tricks to making mistakes less visible.

This post includes affiliate links - i only recommend items that I personally have tried and love!

how to get rid of pyrography mistakes:

Razor - This technique is best for lighter burns. Use a razor as a little scraper to remove burn lines that are not too deep. For deeper burns you can still use this trick, however, you will have a dent/groove from the burn and scraping… It will take the contrast away and be less visible though!

Dremel Tool - Same idea as the razor except with a little more power. Depending on the shape of your Dremel bit, you can get into tight corners.

Sanding Stick - Same idea as the Dremel tool but with less power and more precision (depending on the Dremel bits you have. A sanding stick has a straight edge you can use for small fixes).

Sandpaper - If you want to fix a small mistake and don’t have a sanding stick, try folding up the sandpaper to create a sharp edge. Or wrap the paper around a block and use a corner to remove mistakes.

Tombow Eraser - A super handy eraser that is half eraser and half sandpaper. It has grit within it so it helps to take off any lines and overburn and the eraser in it does the rest. It works great on pencil but it won’t take off 100% of dark graphite (if you pressed really hard during your transfer). Use a tombow eraser first as it won’t scratch up your surface and then finish off with a super light sanding.

Keep Burning - Sometimes you just need to embrace the mistakes and work with them. Continue burning and adjust the original design to make your mistake disappear.

How to get rid of transfer lines or pencil marks:

You’ve finished your wood slice art piece but can see remaining pencil lines from drawing your design, or even worse, transfer lines after using a no-heat transfer technique, you can see bits and pieces of your graphite lines.

There are a couple ways to get rid of these too!

1. Tombow sand eraser:

   you can Start with the eraser if your lines are not dark or if. you are just using pencil. it gets the majority of the lines off or at least makes them lighter and less visible. I like to end with it after the sanding for the final touch.

2. Give it a light sand:

   Regular old sandpaper will work to get off graphite and pencil lines. Lightly sanding over your burn lines makes them sharper and cleaner, getting rid of overburn. This part sounds scary but it will really get everything off! Except what you’ve burned of course, UNLESS your lines and shading are not deep. If you have very light shading or lines, you may have to touch them up. I usually recommend getting the outline or majority of my design burned, take of the graphite lines with the Tombow eraser and a light sand, AND THEN fill in details and shading.

   After sanding, you may be getting dust in between your pyro lines that are tricky to get out. I use a sandpaper that has a sponge on the back and wipe it with that (dry of course). I have heard people use a toothbrush, air compressor (like the ones people use to clean their keyboards), or a microfibre cloth.

Some tips on avoiding the whole process of erasing leftover lines:

1. Firstly, use graphite paper or chaco paper. Carbon lines are much much harder to take off! graphite is cheap and can be used over and over again.

2. Use a light hand to transfer your design.

3. Transfer the minimal amount of lines (i.e. just the outline and the placement of a few details to get you going).

4. Draw your design directly on the wood, and lightly with a pencil or chalk (much easier to erase than any transfer paper).

5. Try burning free hand! I mark the general shape or outline with a couple dots or dashes using a pencil. That way there is much less to take off and I usually end up burning on top of those few lines. Tape also works well to make temporary borders.

the links above are my top favourite items, however, in my amazon storefront, I have many more tools and accessories I recommend!

free mandala colouring pages

mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and fully engaged with your thoughts and feelings, without judgment. it’s a technique that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

colouring and doodling can be a form of meditation and a way to practice mindfulness through art.

when you color or doodle, you engage in an activity that requires focus and concentration. this helps to quiet your mind and allows you to be present in the moment.

how to practice mindfulness while colouring/doodling

by practicing mindfulness while creating this kind of art, you can further enhance the benefits of this activity.

start by setting an intention for your practice. this could be something like "I am focusing on the present moment" or "I am relaxing and letting go of stress." Then, as you color or doodle, try to stay focused on your intention.

pay attention to your breath as you work, taking slow and deep breaths to help you stay calm and centered. focus on the colors and shapes that you are creating, observing the details and textures. if your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the present moment and continue coloring or doodling.

Pyrography as a mindfulness practice

Pyrography, the art of decorating wood or other materials with heat, can be a deeply immersive and mindful practice.

Engaging in pyrography requires focused attention, patience, and a connection with the present moment. As you guide the heated tool across the surface, the aroma of burning wood and the gentle crackling sounds create a sensory experience that helps to anchor your awareness. The intricate process of creating intricate designs or patterns encourages a state of flow, where your mind becomes fully absorbed in the task at hand, leading to a sense of calm and mental clarity. Through pyrography, you can cultivate mindfulness by observing the subtle details, letting go of distractions, and finding a meditative rhythm in the rhythmic movements of the tool, fostering a sense of tranquility and self-expression.

click here to learn how to transfer these designs onto wood.

click below to download floral mandalas and a heart mandala! make sure to tag me @finelinepyro on instagram so I can see and share your work!

practicing mindfulness through art can be a simple yet effective way to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve your overall sense of well-being. So the next time you feel overwhelmed, try picking up some colored pencils or markers and let yourself get lost in the art.

want even more freebies? Head over to Wood burn corner where Rachel and I have created a list of freebies specifically for pyrography artists!

or grab some individual templates (or even a book full of templates) made for tracing and burning via pyrography or simply colouring!

The Pyrography + Business Summit

thank you for Joining us in 2022 for this unique and immersive community experience! If you missed the event, click on the button below to get your copy of the recordings:

OVER 30 FREE CLASSES COVERING:

PYROGRAPHY

Introduction to Wood Burning

Safety + Transfer Techniques

Pyrography Books Discussion

Wood Burning Tools

Tools of the Trade

Wood + Other Surfaces

Adding Color

Finishes

8 Masterclasses on Pyrography Techniques

Burn-Alongs with Expert Pyrographers

Panel Discussion on Pyrography

Interviews

Live Community Chat + Wood Burn Challenges

BUSINESS

Goal Setting + Finding Focus

Business Books Discussion

Making Money as an Artist

Selling Online + In-person

Teaching Classes

Email Marketing

Websites + E-commerce

Pricing Your Art

Photography and Videography

Social Media + Pinterest

Live Coaching Sessions

Business Panel Discussion

Interviews

39 ONLINE CLASSES INCLUDING INTERVIEWS, MASTERCLASSES, COMMUNITY CHATS, CHALLENGES, GIVEAWAYS, BUSINESS CLASSES, AND MUCH MORE TAUGHT BY PROFESSIONALS!

Didn’t make it to the FREE live summit? Purchase access to recordings here.

Want to support this FREE event? Donate here.

WATCH EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELD WOOD BURN LIVE!

Attendees have a chance to ask questions, watch, and learn from some of their favourite professional artists:

Learn to burn REALISTIC EYES + FUR with MINISA ROBINSON of MINISA PYROGRAPHY & ARTS

Dive into TEXTURE techniques with Aney of PYROCRAFTERS

learn the art of wood burning PHOTO-REALISM with AMANDA HUML

burn-along with BEE LOCKE of BEE SYMMETRY

Learn all about MIXED MEDIA with ANDREINA WINFREE of REINAMOR

Jane of JANE VAN DER WOODSEN will be sharing the best SHADING TIPS + TRICKS

Add COLOR to your pyrography pieces with TACIE JENSEN of TACIE JENSEN ART

Join Rachel STRAUSS WOOD BURN CORNER for an INTRO TO WOOD BURNING

all this and then some: wood burning and business classes, community conversations, challenges, panel discussions, tool reviews, a bunch of giveaways and so much more!!

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates Volume two

We are so excited to be making a second edition of The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates!

The first book brought together a whole bunch of artists in the community, as well as new pyrographers.

It was a huge success to those wanting to practice pyrography with templates they actually enjoy burning - without the pressure of designing something on their own.

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates features pyrography design patterns created by the community for the community. It showcases 60+ original templates from 34 wood burning artists from around the globe, with the intention of helping artists of all skill levels past, present, and future to hone their craft, try new styles, and make beautiful art through collaboration. This collection of designs include fantasy, florals, nature, sea life, patterns, people and more.

Check out #thewoodburncommunitybook on instagram to view completed projects!

Easily size and print the designs to match the wood you already have by downloading the digital version

Every one-of-a-kind piece of art you create from these community templates is a collaboration! Each design can be interpreted in an infinite number of ways.

Rachel Strauss, author of The Wood Burn Book and the original Wood Burn Community Book of Templates founder of Burn Club and Wood Burn Corner, includes a basic wood burning quickstart guide, and provides you with a list of essential materials needed for pyrography. She offers information on getting involved in the community, before presenting you with a feast of artwork, each begging to become your next creation!

with 60+ original templates

check out this flip through:

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more template books!

template books, pyro project inspiration books and more!

see more pyro books

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shop individual templates

check out our collection of templates you can purchase individually on woodburncorner.com

individual templates

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Try something new: corporate team building activities

experience something new together to create unique bonds, connections and memories.

effective team building means more engaged employees, which is good for company culture and boosting employee performance!

I have joined the Wood Burn Corner team and am proud to help bring unique virtual experiences to teams in their own home or office! Our classes are equal parts learning a new craft, relaxing mindful practice, fun, and team building.

Wood burning is a versatile and relaxing art form, and the way we teach, attendees only need the ability to trace a line to be successful. We have a passion for this art form, and love bringing it to more people to experience.

We start the online class with an introduction to pyrography (wood burning) and the versatility of it. Think: canvas, leather, cutting boards, earrings, wooden spoons, wall art, and more. Then we dive into the tools of the trade, safety, and then get started creating our own wood burned art pieces. I walk attendees through the step-by-step process answering questions along the way.

These 1-1.5 hr online classes are a great option to bring your group together for a fun team building event.

There are two options when it comes to supplies. We can provide the kits with everything needed for the class and will ship them to all attendees or we can provide a list of supplies if you would like to gather your own.

THE KITS COME WITH:

• Wood burning tool

• 5 different varieties of wood (from coaster sized to wall art sized - Basswood, Birch, Sourwood, Aspen and Ambrosia Maple)

• Sand paper

• Sand eraser

• Graphite paper

• Embossing tool

• Tape

• Brass Brush

• Printed designs - These can be customized for your group.

You will be walked through the whole process on the largest size wood slice in the kit, the Ambrosia Maple, using one of the designs included in the kit. People can also choose to draw their own designs or use their children’s art to transfer onto the wood. Those always turn out great.

By the end of the class, attendees will have a handmade, hand wood burned piece of art that they can be proud of and the knowledge and tools to make more in the future. We also like to send a follow-up email after the event with resources for continued education, wood suppliers, and any other relevant information to round it out.

SOME OF THE COMPANIES WE’VE WORKED WITH

Contact us to learn more about booking a unique team building experience.

once you have completed the class, you can easily keep using this new skill to get a deeper connection with each of your coworkers!

three collaboration ideas I participated in:

1. monster mash challenge

we had no idea what the other person was going to do, and that was the whole point. we taped off the other persons section and created an agreed upon theme (a monster). Once you were done your section, you were to cover up your part and send it off to the next person until it was finished.

The piece of wood was shipped to three artists: I did the body, the feet were done by @laberge_creations and the skull head was done by @holtnercreative.

It was so much fun and the excitement of seeing the finished piece was even more fun!

2. a keepsake for the office:

Take a wood frame and choose a theme. This could be simply everyones name, a symbol representing each person, each persons favorite food - whatever! This could easily be a “going away gift” for a coworker with all their favorite things!!

if you are stuck on a theme, just go wild and let each person burn whatever they want.

include a photo of the team for the office and hang it up for all to see!

3. an office wide challenge:

Have a team mascot or logo or symbol?? This is a little challenge we did in the Burn Club Retreat back in 2019. Everyone who was at the retreat was given an image of a quail and we each had to burn it. What made this super fun is seeing all our quails in all our own unique styles!

@levelstothisburn

@brandyroels

@tracedintimber

custom paddles and oars

I love the art of pyrography! The way it feels while I burn, the texture when the burn is complete, the longevity of the design and the sustainability of using wood as my canvas! I also love nature, portaging and canoeing. When these two loves met, this is what they created:

a unique (and if desired, functional) art piece!

I added acrylic to this one, since it was specifically made for the Algonquin outfitters paddle art contest! It is meant to be an art piece, not a functional oar.

I am so happy to say that my paddle raised over $300 and went to some great local charities! I look forward to joining in on the next contest and supporting the arts and nature in Ontario.

For more of my custom work with paddles and oars: click here!

Mandala Habit Trackers

A DAILY HABIT TRACKER GIVES YOU SMALL WINS TO LOOK FORWARD TO EVERY DAY!

I have partnered with Wood Burn Corner to bring you these cool habit tracker alternatives! Once you complete your new (or old) habit, you can color in the sections, or make a fun doodle!

Daily trackers make goals more attainable and less intimidating. Rather than looking at a large goal and how long it will take, and feeling intimidated by it, a habit tracker allows you to break it down into daily wins.

YOU CAN USE THESE TRACKERS FOR PERSONAL ITEMS LIKE:

• exercise

• water intake

• mood

• stretching

• meditation

• journaling

• gratitude

• creating art

• alcohol intake

• reading

• medications/vitamins

• and so much more

YOU CAN ALSO USE THEM FOR YOUR BUSINESS GOALS.

You can track longer term goals and/or small daily actions that add up to your larger picture goals for yourself and your business. Track things like:

• crossing off at least three things from your to do list

• stopped working at 5pm and/or started by 8am

• no personal social media during business hours

• took a walk at break time

• writing a blog

• posting on a social media platform

• pinning on pinterest

• checking in on asana (or your daily to do list)

• spent 5 minutes plugging away at a long term project (i.e. organizing canva documents or your google photos or a course you are creating)

• spent less than 15min on social media (check your IOS device for a breakdown)

• promoting/marketing yourself

• whatever it is YOU want to work on for your business to reach your goals

Being able to see each day filled out with a simple pattern or color gives you a sense of accomplishment and a positive feeling. It gives you motivation to keep filling each day up and complete the month. It keeps you on track for your goals and the best part is that you decide what those goals are.

We’ve created printable, mandala style habit trackers! These can be used in a couple ways. The first way is simply coloring each section in with color(s). The other way is doodling in each section! Once your habit is done (or at the end of the day, when you are brushing your teeth and getting ready for bed) you can make a quick doodle, like a heart or just some simple lines. If you are feeling fancy, add some detailed patterns. When your month is complete, you will have a pretty mandala that makes you proud!

The bundle comes with three monthly trackers: track 3 habits 7 habits or 12 habits! Click the link below to head over to Wood Burn Corner’s shop page with these fun and unique habit trackers!!

rz mask contest winner!

safety in any wood working project is a real thing! I always use my p95 RZMask whenever I do any project that requires any kind of air filtration to at anytime instructions say: “make sure you are in a well ventilated area”.

the projects I use this mask for include:

• pyrography (click here to read more about being safe while wood burning!)

• wood turning

• anytime I work with resin

• sanding wood or resin

• staining wood

I use this mask because it is comfortable, breathes well, and allows me to move about when I am working on my projects. I don’t have to think about fixing my mask or it staying on too long and loosing my breath.

rzmask has so many different styles and colors and patterns too! this makes it more fun to dawn on gear that will protect your lungs (especially now that masks are a must everywhere we go!)

I stumbled upon their photo contest in early 2020 and guess what…

I WON! 🙌

check out my interview with rz mask here!

my brother and I made a couple submissions and had a lot of fun getting a good shot! below is the winning photo!

wood turning projects

woodturning is a form of woodworking that involves shaping a piece of wood into a desired shape and form using a lathe.

the lathe is a machine that rotates the wood at high speed while the woodturner uses various cutting tools to shape and carve the wood.

the first step is selecting a suitable piece of wood and mounting it on the lathe. the wood is then rotated while the woodturner uses chisels, gouges, and other cutting tools to shape the wood.

you may also use sandpaper and other finishing tools to smooth the surface of the wood and achieve the desired finish.

woodturning can be used to create a wide range of objects, including bowls, vases, platters, and other decorative and functional items.

check out these adorable little mushrooms I made at lee valley tools!

Andy, from Lee Valley Tools below, is demonstrating the process of woodturning:

wood turning was really fun! it was also a bit dangerous and there were a lot of tips and tricks I learned from the teachers at lee valley which, not only made me enjoy the whole process, but also not loose any fingers!

make sure to check out the discovered section for some cool how-to project videos! hopefully classes will return to learn in person again, but for now, these guys have worked hard to create some pretty awesome wood working, gardening, and cooking project ideas and tutorials!

what is ebru art (a.k.a. turkish marbling)

What is ebru? Also known as paper marbling, it is the Turkish tradition of painting on ‘water’. This art form is super satisfying and provides organic natural patterns and shapes (usually to paper)! There is no end for the kind of patterns, shapes and colors you can make!

It is an art form where you paint directly on the surface of liquid in a shallow tray. I used a thicker substance called carrageenan in the shallow tray (I will refer to it as water). This stuff looks like water but generally keeps the paint floating on top of it. I simply splashed paint in my color choices (I am practicing galaxies here). I wanted to keep my pattern very organic and flowy so I splashed but you can create actual shapes by dripping paint more carefully.

the most classic look/pattern is simply by splashing different coloured paint onto the water and pulling a cool rake-like tool which drags the paint into different shapes (you can also use chop sticks or toothpicks or anything to move the paint on the water):

if you want a more specific look, you can control where the paint is being put down. here is an example of a pattern made by dripping paint in one spot. so first you would put a drop of white paint, then a drop of black paint in the middle of your first drop and so on…

you can stop here and place your paper (or wood) down for this pattern or you can use the toothpick or rake thing to move the paint:

Once you’ve finished your design, you place a sheet of paper on the surface to transfer the design from the water onto the paper or other surface.

One of my most favourite pieces (to this day) was created using this technique. I added the art of pyrography for details such as mountain tops and tree’s.

Water Marbling Toronto gave me an opportunity to try something new at their studio. Without hesitation, they offered their space and their support to try this art form on wood! Generally practiced on paper, I had no idea if it would work on wood. I really wanted the organic and natural looking shapes and so I gave it a try! You can see the process of creating the splatters and patterns below:

I started off with a piece of wood. For the mountain design, I just blocked out the parts I didn’t want to have paint on them by using tape. Then proceeded with the steps to marbling, let it dry and then wood burned and watercoloed the mountains afterwards!

Here is another piece that I made.

even if I were to try by best, each piece turns out unique and completely individual. You can control the paint on the water and use tools to drag and pull the paint around in order to make specific patterns and designs (especially with a lot of practice). but I prefer if the water decides where it wants to go and how it moves the paint. for me, this is the best part about this art form! it truly does create organic looking and natural patterns.