Add a pattern to a piece of wood with a wood-burning tool.
An artfully-completed wood-burning craft adds a decorative element to a space with its distinctive appearance of black-etched crevices. Using pyrography pens, special devices that heat to the proper temperature, artisans create anything from a simple pattern on a jewelry box to an elaborately drawn picture. Wood burning is a craft that even beginners can tackle and potentially master quite quickly.
Instructions
1. Set up the space where you'll complete the craft. Wood-burning tips heat up to temperatures between 600 and 900 degrees according to Classic Carving Patterns. Use a stone or tile surface to avoid accidentally burning the area. Place a piece of fine-grit sand paper in your crafting area for clearing the debris from your pen as you complete the craft.
2. Choose a piece of wood to begin. Basswood, butternut and sugar pine are all good options because their pale colors enhance the appearance of the lines and shading.
3. Trace your desired picture or pattern onto the wood using a pencil. This serves as a guide while completing the project and any remaining lines can easily be erased when complete.
4. Choose the tip of your pyrography pen and install. This will not be necessary if using a beginner wood burning tool as it only includes one non-removable tip. More advanced models may include interchangeable tips that create stroke widths, textures and shadings.
5. Plug the pyrography pen into an outlet close to your craft area. Let the pen heat up, according to the instructions on your specific model. Avoid using an extension cord if possible. If necessary, only use a heavy-grade model as the pen uses a significant amount of power.
6. Place the wood in front of you in your crafting space and sit or stand in a comfortable position.
7. Hold the pyrography pen as you would an ordinary writing pen avoiding the tip. Place your wrist on the wood as a way to keep your hand steady as you draw the pen towards you. Continue to draw the pen towards you to complete each stroke.
