SURFACES
A wide variety of surfaces are suitable for pyrography. Hardwoods such as
beech, sycamore, birch and hornbeam are most popular. Most craft stores carry
a good selection of these varieties. Birch plywood works well and is available at
home improvement centres. You can also make your own tabletops and furniture
using plywood and decorate it with your new skills. Smooth grained and light
coloured woods work best. Stay away from dark, coarse grained hardwoods.
Pines are not suitable because they have too much sap causing it to burn and
mar your patterns. Cork, leather, some papers, and even wax candles make
great design surfaces. Check your craft store and woodworking shops for
suitable surfaces. Experiment! This is a hobby. That means you can just do it
because it’s fun.
SAFETY TIP:
Caution
should be taken when working with certain hardwoods such as,
English pressure treated or tropical woods. Avoid using very thin plywood
or veneer because they contain adhesives that emit dangerous fumes when
heated. Wear protective masks.
ADDING COLOUR TO YOUR DESIGNS
Colour can add an extra element of excitement to your new project. The tips
have provided great texture. Now it’s time to add a finishing touch, once the
pyrography is complete but before you varnish try some of these materials. Be
sure to clean the surface first with a light rub of alcohol to remove fingerprints
and grease.
Suggested colouring and finishing supplies:
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Varnish
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Acrylic paint thinned with water
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Coloured glazing gels
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Watercolours
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Caulks
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Wood stains and finishes
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Shoe polish
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Shoe dyes for a deep rich shade
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Paintbrushes with soft bristle
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Sponges for applying varnish
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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 colours and your technique on
scrap materials if possible. If not, select the least visible location. Colour 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.
WOOD BURNING TIPS
Script Tip
Universal Tip
Dot Tip
Calligraphy Tip
Stencil Tip
Shading Tip
Blade Tip
Transfer Tip
STAMP TIPS
OK Sign Tip
Victory Tip
Thumbs Up Tip
Flower Tip
Star Tip
Heart Tip
