Burn baby, burn.

Over the years, I’ve dedicated my spare time to the craft of pyrography, carving out an hour here or there to work on a piece or research new ideas. Only recently did I dedicate more time to the craft and this is when I found myself truly progressing and growing as an ‘artist’.

Upgrading tools from the most basic pyrography machine to higher standard, more versatile equipment, enabled me to flourish in my craft. It was then possible to play with the effects that I saw some of my favourite pyrography artists mastering.

Practice practice practice. Try again. Fail again. Fail better. Learning, often through trial and error, about different woods and finishes. Quality wood compared to craft wood. Olive and oak and maple, basswood, cedar, cherry. Oils, yacht varnish, matte sprays, and food safe finishes. Graphite paper. Sandpaper grit. Working with and against the grain. About the health and safety of the practice…hours upon hours of inhaling smoke is not great for the ol’ lungs.

It was only then, after investing more time into it, that I could see the forest for the trees, and truly appreciate the artform and its capabilities.

Upgrading tools enables freedom of choice. I was able to take on more complex or lengthy commissions with confidence. To name a few, I worked on 60 unique coasters for a wedding, each depicting a different British animal. I helped to restore and embellish a historical chess table. I’ve captured a beloved furry friend in a beautiful length of wood. I’ve rendered houses which hold hearts and memories.   

But really, I feel I have only scratched the surface of my abilities and my practice, and it’s only just the beginning. There is much more to learn, and much more to burn.