Adding Color to Your Designs
Color can add an extra element of excitement to your new project. The
tips have provided great texture. Now it’s time to add a fi nishing touch.
Once the pyrography is complete but before you varnish try some of
these materials. Be sure to clean the surface fi rst with a light rub of
alcohol to remove fi ngerprints and grease.
Suggested Coloring and Finishing Supplies:
Varnish
Acrylic paint thinned with water
Colored glazing gels
Watercolors
Caulks
Wood stains and fi nishes
Shoe polish
Shoe dyes for a deep rich shade
Paintbrushes with soft bristle
Sponges for applying varnish
Soft cloth
Fine grit sandpaper
Add a little water to your medium to keep it thin. Thick paint will cover
up your pattern work. A foam plate makes a great pallet because there’s
no clean up and paints don’t bleed into the surface.
Test your colors and your technique on scrap materials if possible. If
not, select the least visible location. Color can be added to the designs
as well as the background or both.
Applying Varnish
Two to three coats of satin or gloss varnish will protect your work of
art. Use a soft cloth or sponge rather than a brush, which might leave
hairs and brush strokes behind. Follow manufacturer instructions
regarding application, safety and drying times.
Safety Precautions
Your Weller
®
soldering iron is a very safe tool, and complies with all
the relevant safety regulations of North America. Nevertheless, like
all electrical appliances, it must be handled with care. Never forget that
the soldering tip and heater can reach high temperatures. Follow these
simple safety rules at all times. Keep tool out of reach of children. Keep
your soldering iron well away from all fl ammable material. To avoid
burns, always assume that the tip is hot. Be sure the hot soldering tip
and heater does not come into contact with the electric power cord.
Before making any adjustment (removing or replacing a tip, etc.) make
sure the iron is unplugged and cool. Do not dip the tool into any liquid.
Always work in a well-ventilated area. After use, unplug the iron, allow
the tip to cool, and store in a safe place. Safety goggles are recom-
mended for preventing hot materials from injuring eyes.
