Creative Fuel Book Club

Book clubs are a great way to meet new people and discuss literature. They are also an excellent way to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world around you.

A book club provides an opportunity to read a variety of books and discuss them with people who have similar interests. It provides a platform to share your opinions and gain different perspectives from other members.

Book clubs can also be a great way to make friends and build your social circle. They can also be a source of encouragement and support as members can come together to discuss the books and their thoughts. By being a part of a book club, you can also build your communication skills and learn to articulate your thoughts and opinions in a constructive manner.

Keep reading to learn more about the Book Club tailored to creative entrepreneurs created by Alaina Dawson of Sweet Peach Burns!

CREATIVE FUEL BOOK CLUB

Hosted by Alaina of  @sweetpeachburns

What?

Welcome to the Creative Fuel Book Club - a reading journey curated with artists and small biz owners in mind. This book club is meant to be fun, educational, and inspirational. It will also be a great place for like minded people to join together and chat about some of their favorite topics, pain points, ideas for growth, and more! 

Who?

As mentioned above, this book club was made especially for artists and small biz owners, however I would encourage ANYONE that wants to learn more about these topics, would like to one day be an artist/small biz owner, or someone that just simply loves reading and discussing books with people to join!

For artists/small biz owners, each book will focus on topics that will be more than helpful for growth and inspiration. My true hope for this book club is that like minded folks going through similar experiences will join in reading books that will be helpful to their journey and the discussions that follow will be inspiring to all members. 

You can also order a Creative Fuel Book club sticker to rep your membership! They are $3 shipped within the US - or $6 to Canada. If you live in another country, let me know and I will see what we can do to get you one. 

When?

Recognizing that many artists/small biz owners are already strapped for time, this is a leisurely book club. None of the books are too long or complex, and there will only be four books to read during the year - meaning you have ~ 3 months to read each book. I will be announcing each new book at the beginning of each quarter (or you can join my KoFi for an advance schedule of all four books - more about that below). The time frame to read the four books and the discussions will happen quarterly. I will solicit input in which dates/times work best for members to hold each quarterly book discussion, but as of now the tentative timeline is as follows: 

• Book 1: Real Artists Don’t Start by Jeff Goins →  January - March (Discussion: March 31st or April 1st)

• Book 2: April - June: TBA → (Discussion:July 1st or July 2nd)

• Book 3: July - September: TBA → (Discussion: September 30th or October 1st)

• Book 4: October - December: TBA → (Discussion:January 5th or 6th 2024)

THAT SAID: you do NOT need to read/participate in all four quarters to be a part of the book club. You can pick and choose; jump in and out as you like/can. Even if you start a book but don’t finish it in time, you are still more than welcome to join the discussions! There are no rules for participating. 

I will also be giving away ONE copy of each book on Instagram at the beginning of the quarter it is being read so be sure to be following me and keep an eye out for that! KoFi members can get a few extra entries (see more below). 

Where?

All book discussions will happen virtually on Discord. These will be video/audio meetings. You do not need to join on video or even audio if you do not want to, as there will also be a chat function available. Discord is a free service that can be downloaded on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. You will need an account to log in and access the meeting room. You can join the discord anytime - please message me for the link. I will also be sending a join link to anyone on my membership list a few days leading up to each quarterly meeting. If you have any questions about Discord, please ask! ALSO - updates, announcements, and other info will be dissipated through various channels: Instagram, email, and KoFi. If you want to be sure not to miss any book club related news, please sign up for my email newsletter. I will be sending a special, quarterly book club edition.

Sign up using THIS link.

How?

Joining is super easy - just let me know you are interested in some way! Reach out to me on Instagram or FaceBook (@sweetpeachburns) or send me an email at sweetpeachburns@gmail.com. I will keep a list of all ‘current’ members to make sure they receive info and the Discord meeting invite - if at any point you want to be removed from the membership list, again just let me know - no hard feelings 🙂 

Want more perks…? Join the STAR Pals on my KoFi!

• Book Club STAR Pals: Join this tier to support Sweet Peach Burns and gain exclusive access to a private Discord channel with extra book club discussions, monthly reading guides, giveaways, and more! If you don't use Discord no worries - I will also be sending any digital perks via email!! STAR Pals will also help me choose books for future book club quarters :) Each STAR Pal gets +2 entries into quarterly book giveaways. This tier also includes access to exclusive book club merch and a freebie for every 3 months of membership!

• [All book club members are automatically signed up for the book club newsletter]

Also - signing up to be a STAR pal also helps me artist/small biz owner 😀 Since I am organizing this book club for free and even giving away copies of books, any bit of support helps! Even just a one-time tip or purchase of a book club sticker!

Link to my Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/sweetpeachburns

Peak Pyrography Podcast

Justine Fedde of @peak_pyro has created a *hot* new podcast which you can listen to on a bunch of different platforms or even watch on YouTube!

She is interviewing some pretty amazing artists and entrepreneurs and dives deep into their world of pyrography and art!

Learn more below and be sure to catch Episode 1 with Rachel and Episode 8 with Basia:

PEAK PYROGRAPHY, THE PODCAST FOR WOOD BURNING

Guest blog post by Justine Fedde of @peak_pyro

Welcome to Peak Pyrography! The podcast where we discuss artistry and process with creators in the Wood Burning Community. I'm your host, Justine Fedde (@peak_pyro). I started wood burning in 2020 and haven't looked back since!

A PODCAST ABOUT WOOD BURNING?

Yes, finally! When I began my pyrography journey I looked for a podcast to listen to while I did my burning. I was disappointed to find none about wood burning. So with the help and encouragement of my partner and professional media guy, Kevin, we’ve been working hard to create this for you! 

On this podcast, I chat with incredible artists and leaders in the wood burning community about their process for making art, how they run their businesses and what they do to take care of themselves. We get into some of the finer details of things, like what their favorite burners and nibs are, where they source their wood and how they find inspiration. 

The goal is to share wood burning with everyone, but especially to highlight some of the exciting things happening in the community. When new books come out, master classes are released, or before a seasonal art challenge, I will work to get the authors, artists and hosts on to discuss what’s happening in their world.

There will also be some special episodes with a couple other types of creators. Some of these will be small or large businesses which support pyrographers through their burners, wood and other supplies associated with wood burning. And some will feature creators from outside of the wood burning community who’s creative processes are not so different from ours. 

SO WHEN WILL THEY BE AVAILABLE?

The first three episodes were released on Valentine's Day (14 February 2023) with additional episodes being added every Tuesdays after that. The wood burning community is amazing and that means that I’ve got a great line up coming. We are putting the finishing touches on the episodes and I cannot wait to share with you!

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO FIND PEAK PYROGRAPHY?

Peak Pyrography is available in two different formats depending on your needs. If you like to watch, or want to see all the beautiful details of what we discuss, you can tune in on YouTube. 

If listening only is your jam, you can find the podcast on many platforms. Grab these RSS links below and use them to link your podcast player to Peak Pyrography and listen away:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts 

Amazon Podcasts

Overcast

Pocket Cast

I KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BE GREAT ON THE PODCAST 

If you think someone should be on the podcast, I want to know! Whether it's a new book, a seasonal challenge, a new master class, or something else, I want to know and talk about it, promote it, on the podcast. This will be a great place for the community to share news and get regular updates! 

Do you know someone who should be a guest on this podcast? Reach out to me on instagram @peak_pyro or by email peakpyrography@gmail.com

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - Radial Symmetry Edition

We are beyond excited to share The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates, Radial Symmetry Edition

This book is a dream realized: a radial symmetry guide and pyrography book of templates created by our community for the community. This book of templates is a beautiful collection of mandala-inspired designs for artists at all stages from our incredibly talented and diverse community.

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.

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!

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 on your own!

Plus, she includes 3 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!

The 20 Featured Pyrography Artists

Follow them and tag them in the pieces you create!

@finelinepyro

@woodburncorner

@Calisanja

@carolinerenck_art

@Soulfulmuse_

@prettyful.creations

@knotsandembers

@JenniferRHeuertz

@UrbanFarmFoods

@kraftinwithkate

@mapleandfernco

@itsdavidandrenee

@ReSaArtHouse

@alteredpathartstudio

@LittleBlackBirdDesigns

@RiverValleyPyro

@kelsieart

@blindlove.woodburning

@woodburnedandwired

@krishnascanvas

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

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WANT SOME MORE PATTERNS?

Check out all the pattern books available

or the templates store full of individual patterns for sale.

LOOKING FOR A MORE IN DEPTH GUIDE and pyrography project ideas?

Check out The Wood Burn Book

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The Wood Burn Sessions: Learn How to Wood Burn With The Experts!

Learn from pyrography experts with 6 wood burning masterclasses. Learn new skills, discover new techniques, and explore new tools and mediums with The Wood Burn Sessions.

THANK YOU

To all who could join in the live from February 6-12, 2023 and all of those who supported the artists, us and the community!

If you’ve missed the live event, or couldn’t make it to all the classes, grab yourself the Recordings below.

Introducing Yourself to the Wood Burn Community

So you’ve fallen in love with Pyrography and now you’re looking for other Pyros to share that love with, huh? Well, if it’s community you’re after, you’ve come to the right place.

We have a few great leads for you to let this wonderful community know that your amazing self is here.

1. Sign up for Burn Club

If you’re already in, skip to the next part. But we knew this one was coming first right? And why wouldn’t it? Not only is it free, not only is it super easy, but it’s the best way to stay up to date on all things Wood Burn Corner and community events. You can also be featured in the newsletter by using #burnclub on social media, or you can nominate someone to share with over 5,000 subscribers! Oh and you can score the occasional giveaway too… All you need to sign up is your email! And you heard the free and easy part right?

2. Share what you’re making!!

We know we’re putting on our Captain Obvious hats with this one but this is a community of artists. And artists love experiencing art so let us experience your art! This is also a community of all skill levels so if you’re just starting out in the wood world or even just starting out in art - share, share, share! 

A couple good hashtags are useful for connecting to other artists - #burnclub #woodburn, #pyrography, #woodart are especially strong. 

There are many events and collaboration opportunities online where you can share your work. Not only will it help you get exposure, likes and follows, you may also sell some art or learn a new pyro hack along the way! Some of our interactive events include:

• Burn Club Craft Fair 2022 (check out #burnclubcraftfair2022)

• Burnt Weeks (see #fallburntweek2022)

• and Burnt Months (and #burntoctober)

Make sure to join the Burn Club if you want to hear about public events and happenings.

Have an event in mind that we have never done (or done in the past) that you want supported, sponsored or run? Contact us! We love supporting the community in anyway we can.

Collaboration through the Community Template Books:

These books are a beautiful collection of designs for artists at all stages from our incredibly talented and diverse community. 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.

CHECK OUT the books here!

Visit and follow #THEWOODBURNCOMMUNITYBOOK ON INSTAGRAM TO VIEW COMPLETED PROJECTS!

You can also visit the templates store full of individual patterns created by Basia and Rachel!

4. Interact with others

Put the ‘social’ in “social media” and get in there and follow, like, share, and comment on the work of other Pyros! You’ll find this community is quick to make friends.

Not an artist? No trouble! You can still participate in this awesome community! Even if you're not a maker you can still follow, like, and share these wonderful artists on social media or in person!

Happy burning and we can’t wait to meet you.

Pyrography Gift Guide

Below is a collection of gift options that are perfect for wood burning artists. These include gift ideas for experienced pyrographers who are selling their art to those who are just discovering pyrography. The Holidays are here, and people in your life are looking for the perfect gift to get you. Send this list to people you love, or go ahead and treat yourself and your business to an awesome gift or two! Set yourself up for success this coming year.

WBC receives a very small portion of purchases made using Amazon links, but these are all supplies that we highly recommend.

Learn + Grow

The Pyro + Business summit Recordings 2022

39 classes with 35 presenters from all over the globe. Learn from pyro experts with the live wood burning masterclasses, pyro panel discussions, business panel discussions, interviews, community chats, challenges + so much more.

LEarn More

The wood burn sessions

Learn from 6 pyro experts with these recorded wood burning masterclasses.

Learn More

the crafters box

The Crafters Box is a small business run by female entrepreneurs that support handmade makers. It’s a service providing AMAZING, high-end, slow-craft kits with accompanying videos by experts to teach new & interesting crafts, like pyrography.

get crafting

Creative Woodburning School

Bee Locke creating a lesson by lesson Creative Woodburning School which will take all the guesswork out of pyrography for you.

check it out

Patterns For Tracing

High-quality art templates that inspire creativity and encourage artistic growth

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Books

The Wood Burn Book

A book I wish I had when I started wood burning. This book by Rachel of @woodburncorner is an essential guide for pyrographers.

Get the book

Community Book Of Templates

Pyrography design patterns showcasing 57 original templates from 34 wood burning artists from around the globe. Along with the woodburning instructions, the intention here is to help artists of all skill levels to hone their craft, try new styles, and make beautiful art through collaboration.

get the templates

Community Book of Templates, Volume Two

Similar to the first edition above, this template book has more unique designs as well as instructions on how to wood burn.

Take a look inside volume Two

Community Book of Templates, radial symmetry edition

Same idea as the first two editions above, this template book features radial symmetry patterns and includes step by step mandala making instructions as well as instructions on how to wood burn.

Learn more here

Creative Woodburning

One of Rachel’s favorite pyrography books out there. Bee Locke of @beesymmetry did a fantastic job creating this book.

Get Bee's Book

Woodburning realistic animals

This book by Minisa Robinson is fabulous if you are looking to hone your shading skills, and create realistic images.

Get Minisa's Book

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Tools + Supplies

Best tool for watercolor

These water pens will save you time when using water colors and are super portable. No need for a water cup with these pens.

Get water pens

best trick for resin

This is for Resin Finish lovers. I learned this trick from Aly of @alyoopsartistry, you put a layer of isolation coat first on your burned piece, and then pour your resin and it will keep the resin from soaking into the wood. Such a great trick!

Get isolation coat

best trick for transferring

Quite possibly Rachel’s greatest contribution to pyrography, the discovery of Tombow Sand Erasers to remove unwanted graphite marks left on wood.

Get these magic erasers

best wood

This Walnut Hollow Basswood Plank Value Pack is Rachel’s favorite wood to burn on.

Get Basswood here

fantastic alternative medium

You may have tried acrylic, water color, and colored pencils on wood, but have you trie gouache??? Check out these gorgeous metallic gouache paints from Arteza

get Gouache paints

stop propping your phone on weird surfaces

This is what I use to record videos, go LIVE, take photos, and teach classes. This gooseneck phone holder is a must have for recording your work.

Get Phone Holder

keep your space safe

Stay safe, and keep those around you safe with a Mini Smoke Extractor. This little machine works!

Get Smoke Extractor

Make it even safer

I use this guy in conjunction with my desktop smoke extractor to really keep my air clean.

Get an Air Purifier

comfort + safety

This is our favorite mask. It is comfortable, and protective. The link is to our favorite fit: the M2 style. It comes in many colors and many other strap combinations and fits.

Get RZ Mask here

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Merch

Burn Club Swag

Merch just for the pyrographers out there!

get burn club swag

Master of flames Pyro Shirt

Pyrography tshirt from Andreina of @reinamor_apw. From her original wood burning tools illustration.

Get Shirt here

pyro Clothing + Accessories

Merch just for the pyrographers out there! Several other options like: Pyro is Fire, Burn Babe, Burn Club, and more…

Get Pyro Clothing +

Burnin' Up tote

Perfect tote for wood burning or craft materials for on the go! Created by Andreina of @reinamor_apw.

Grab a tote

pyro bags for pyro pals

Grace of @piecelovemusic made this adorable pyro bag, perfect for all your loose nibs.

Get the bag

Send this list to your significant others, family members, or friends who are looking to get you the perfect gift. Or go ahead and treat yourself!

Happy Holidays + Happy Burning!

Learn to Wood Burn + Make Your Own Radial Symmetry Patterns!

Art has long been recognized as a form of therapy that promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and creativity. One specific form of art that has recently gained popularity for its therapeutic benefits is radial symmetry art, paired with pyrography, or wood burning.

Radial symmetry is a design technique where an image is divided into equal sections that radiate from a central point. This type of art can be found in nature, such as in the petals of a flower or the scales of a fish, and it can also be created by artists using various mediums. When drawing radial symmetry art, an individual can focus their attention on the repetition and balance of the design, which can promote a meditative state of mind and relieve stress.

Pyrography, or wood burning, involves using a heated tool to create designs on wood. When combined with radial symmetry art, the individual can transfer their design onto a wooden surface and use the pyrography tool to burn the design into the wood. The act of burning the design into the wood can be therapeutic in and of itself, as it requires focus, patience, and precision.

One of the benefits of using radial symmetry art and pyrography as a form of therapy is that it is accessible to individuals of all skill levels. The design can be as simple or complex as the individual desires, and the pyrography tool can be used to create varying degrees of shading and texture. The act of creating something with your own hands, regardless of the outcome, can be a powerful way to reduce stress and increase feelings of self-efficacy.

In addition to its therapeutic benefits, radial symmetry art and pyrography can also be a fun and creative hobby. The finished product can be used as a decorative piece or given as a personalized gift to a loved one.

Want to LEARN these TWO very CREATIVE + RELAXING ART FORMS?

Here are two was:

1. Read:

   Choose from two books full of mandala inspired patterns complete with written instructions on how to draw your own designs from scratch!

The Community Book of Templates (Radial Symmetry Edition) offers designs by Basia and the community in a variety of themes.

Presence Bundle features Basia’s designs inspired by the art deco and art nouveau movements.

These two books each include a radial symmetry guide and a set of their own unique designs to practice pyrography with.

2. Watch

DIY Radial Symmetry Patterns

$8.00

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Step-by-step instructions on how to create your own radial symmetry patterns!

RESOURCES AND TOOLS

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 (or wood slice you want to burn on), pen/pencil, a compass (can be improvised if you dont have one), and a ruler (also optional)!

The combination of radial symmetry art and pyrography is a unique and rewarding form of therapy. By focusing on the repetition and balance of the design and using a heated tool to burn it into wood, individuals can experience a sense of relaxation, mindfulness, and creativity. So why not try your hand at this therapeutic art form and see what you can create?

Happy DRAWING AND Burning!

DIY Wood Burning Kit

Wood burning is such a versatile, relaxing, useful and wonderful hobby, and we’re so excited for you to discover it all.

For all the beginners who want to try out this craft, we created The Wood Burn Box, which is basically a starter kit that has everything we would use when completing a pyrography project and all the basic tools and supplies you need to make beautiful wood-burned pieces of art.

We love The Wood Burn Box but wanted some more customizable aspects. We put together The DIY Starter Wood Burning Kit where you can choose the supplies and materials depending on your project choices and budget!

Please note: A majority of the items on the list are affiliate links. We would never recommend something that we didn’t believe in or haven’t tried, so you can be sure you are getting the right tools and materials to complete the job!

Download you Guide to Wood Burning and then scroll down to choose your materials and supplies!

The DIY Starter Wood Burning Kit

1. The Tool

There are many options to the tools one can use to complete a project. The prices vary widely but so does the quality, function and comfort level when using the tools. Below are three options from least expensive to more professional:

We always recommend The Walnut Hollow Versa Tool when starting out. The price point is affordable and the tool is a quality burner (especially for the price).

Get 15% off your order using the coupon code: WBC15

This tool allows you to get an understanding of pyrography without dishing out a bunch of money. You can really create any piece with this variable temperature burner, especially larger pieces requiring a lot of coverage.

This tool is bit bulky to hold and the electrical wire on it is a bit stiff. The handle is far away from the nib making it a wee bit awkward to hold (not ideal if you are spending hours of burning time). However, many professional artists can get past this and never upgrade to a different tool. Some artists use gloves or a little bean bag cushion under their hand to give them more support and comfort.

Even with these drawbacks, this is a good tool for beginners and one I enjoy having in my tool bag. My favorite part about this solid point tool is that you can get a separate transfer point nib that will allow you transfer images onto wood quickly and efficiently.

The higher end tools we recommend are professional wire tip burners. These can be quite expensive, but are fantastic for frequent users. They heat up and cool down quickly, are more comfortable to hold, and have many different nib options which are generally easier and faster to changeout while burning. We recommend either the Razertip or the Optima 1 from PJL Enterprises. They are both quality tools.

Head over to the following blog post: What Tool Is Right for Me, if you want to learn about a variety of pyro tools, uses and price points for each.

2. The Burnable surface

Most commonly, wood is the surface choice for pyrography artist. The list of other items you can burn on is long but wood is a good place to start because it is usually flat, easily available and affordable.

Check out our Top 9 Wood Surfaces to Burn On

Where to get wood:

You can source wood from many different locations. From your local lumber yards, renovation and kitchen cabinetry shops, Facebook market place and even online classifieds like Craigslist and Kijiji.

Often times wood is being given away or sold at a super low price (especially for offcuts and scrap pieces). You don’t always have the luxury of choosing what you will get but can save a lot of money and push your creativity.

Please, always ensure you know what you are burning on! Check out our Guide to Burning Safely blog post to stay safe while burning. Never burn on anything with a finish and always utilize safety equipment.

We love Walnut Hollow for their sustainability efforts, variety of wood styles as well as their quality. Their woods are pre-sanded and ready for crafting. They primarily have basswood, birch and pine and some have a live edge and some do not. We recommend for beginners to start with Basswood: get 15% off your order from Walnut Hollow using the coupon code: WBC15

Look for their basswood and birch options. Stay away from pine for your first burn at pine can cause some frustrations when burning.

Another company we love for wood is It’s David and Renee. Their wood is butter smooth! They are a small business and all their slices are hand made with loads of care and attention to detail. They offer a sample pack, a burnable box package and other fun and unique woods to burn on like cutting boards and a whole bunch of differently shaped ornaments!

It’s David and Renee have a Patreon group called The Timberdoodle, where you can get access to bulk orders, first dibs on now stock, and coupon codes/discounts!

You can also check out these other wood suppliers: Rustic Wood Supply, Woodpecker Crafts, and Aspen Rustic Creations

Uk people, check out Waney Woodworks

People in Canada, check out Lee Valley Tools and Exotic Wood

3. Optional Tools for Wood Burning

You can do just about anything once you have the machine and a surface to burn on. There are a few items to make the process more enjoyable, quicker and easier.

Graphite paper provides a cheap and quick way to get designs you drew on paper or printed out onto your wood. Not as fast as the heat method above but definitely much cheaper.

Check out this blog post to learn how to use this paper to transfer your design.

You can simply use a pen or pencil (a red pencil crayon helps you not to miss any lines) with your graphite paper or you can use an embossing tool.

Embossing Tools allow you to transfer your design without completly damaging the original artwork (tracing over it).

Washi tape holds down your design without damaging the surface or the original artwork.

The Tombow Sand Eraser! This little guy is a great options for removing leftover tracing lines and possibly one of Wood Burn Corner’s greatest discoveries.

Click here for a blog post with more information on removing lines or mistakes from your wood.

Another option for removing leftover lines from your pencil or graphite is sandpaper! Sandpaper is also a go to for making your surface smooth and ready to sand on. The smoother the surface, the more pleasant your burning experience will be! This pack has all the levels of grit.

Learn more about sanding your wood here.

I use a brass brush for cleaning my nibs. These ones I suggest lay flat so they are convenient to use mid burn.

Click here to see other ways to keep your nips and tips clean and functioning properly!

Patterns to trace

Grab some patterns to trace! Following a line will make it easier to focus on the function of your tool versus where you will be burning next, especially if you are not comfortable with drawing free-hand. Below are two FREE templates to get you started.

Check out our Community Template Books for even more patterns to practice with or visit the templates store full of individual patterns for sale!

More Resources

Grow with the community: Join the Burn Club mailing list. There are monthly giveaways, a place to ask your burning questions, links to resources and so much more!

Grab The Wood Burn Book for projects and inspiration plus more information about pyrography including creating textures, finishing your piece and mixed media!

Winter Burnt Week 2023

Burnt Challenges are a call to artists of all skill levels to create an original piece of pyrography artwork based on a specific word, or what we like to call, a prompt! Check out Some past challenges here.

This challenge is an excellent way for wood burning artists to grow their portfolio, try new things, push their craft, meet other pyrographers, hone their skills, gain followers, sell art, and have a ton of fun while they are at it!

Having a restriction, like following a specific prompt, can really bring out creativity in people. These prompts are known to get people inspired and trying new things. Things they perhaps wouldn’t have tried otherwise.

The challenges are living in the wood burning community on Instagram. Follow us there or join Burn Club+ to get your prompts in advance for the next Burnt Challenge and to suggest your own prompts.

WINTER Burnt Week 2023

We are so excited to be teaming up with our sponsor, Walnut Hollow, to bring you this challenge that runs from February 20th to February 24th!!

The prompts were suggested by the Burn Club community members. We got a whole list of really funny and unique but very random nouns + adjectives. To make it even more fun and to keep artists thinking outside of the box, we pulled one noun and one adjective randomly out of a hat and put the two together!

OUR FEATURED ARTISTS

DREARY + PEAKS by @taciejensen

@taciejensen created this beautiful piece for the DREARY PEAKS prompt. You can almost feel the fog and gloom through the photo. You can tell this character is on a very important journey... So much texture and the way the color was added really makes this piece quite dreary, giving off many feels. The message Tacie writes is very empowering and brings me right out of the fog with hope and inspiration:

“When life looks bleak, hold your head up because you came this far. You have the strength and determination, you’ve got this!”

Beautifully done @taciejensen! Everyone, please go give @taciejensen a follow for more beautiful art in this unique style.

SOFT + CREATURE by @burnedblossoms

@burnedblossoms created this original design for the prompt of SOFT CREATURE! This burn is absolutely beautiful with its textures, shapes, composition, and shading, and those white outlines and that circular lined background!!!! Do yourself a favor and zoom in on all those details. The softness is in the cute little creature and also the encompassing flowers which look like are making the goats day! Go give @burnedblossoms a follow to see this little cuteness as well as all of her other stunning pyrography work!

HARSH + VESSEL by @wild.earth.artwork

Talk about harsh vessel! This little bird found its home in the bright neon lights in a busy city. I love @wild.earth.artwork’s out of the box thinking on this one. Her use of color here is spectacular. You can feel the warmth of these lights! I also love how the image is zoomed in. We don’t need the full neon sign to see the whole picture here. It’s fabulous! Great work by @wild.earth.artwork.

GLISTENING + PEAKS by @allie_and_nyx_crafts

@allie_and_nyx_crafts created this beautiful piece for the prompt: GLISTENING EVERGREEN! The lines and illustration style of the rocky area paired with the realistic glistening evergreens on it makes them really pop out and even look superimposed! The colors and gradients are stunning and the burn is just so clean and crisp! Well done, @allie_and_nyx_crafts. Everyone please go follow this awesome artist. Let’s show them all the love! 

EXPERIMENTAL + WONDERLAND by @xedesarte

@xedesarte created this stunning piece for the prompt EXPERIMENTAL WONDERLAND. The details, the textures, the magical vibe of the stars that look like they are actually aglow! It is a dream turned into art with some very special and personal meaning and it is just so so beautiful! Everyone go give @xedesarte a follow!

Make sure to follow the #winterburntweek hashtag and check out our stories as well as @walnuthollow for some of our favorite posts and features!

How to join in on the challenge NExt time

Learn about the next challenge by joining the Burn Club!

To participate in this everyday wood burning challenge, post a photo of your prompt-inspired piece (on instagram) on the date listed using #WinterBurntWeek and mention both @woodburncorner + @walnuthollow.

That’s it! It’s that easy.

Where CAN you and your artwork get featured?

Both @walnuthollow (our Sponsor) + @woodburncorner select artists for each prompt to feature in:

• both Walnut Hollow + Wood Burn Corner Instagram posts + stories

• on this blog post once the challenge is over

• our Facebook page

• as well as on Pinterest

What CAN YOU win?

There are many prizes and a pre-challenge giveaway just for sharing about the challenge.

Wood Burn Corner gives away a daily prize! Each winner got to choose from the following:

• Digital Copy of Template Book (Volume 1)

• Digital Copy of Template Book (Volume 2)

• Digital Copy of Template Book (Radial Symmetry Edition)

• Access to The Sessions Recordings (Value $100)

• Complete Wood Burning and Business Toolkit (Value $749)

• Access to Pyrography and Business Summit Recordings (Value $240)

Walnut Hollow also gives away a daily prize; a mystery box of goodies from www.walnuthollow.com!

Can I still join in but not burn?

If you are not able to participate by making art, you can still show your fellow pyro pals some love by sharing, commenting, saving, and liking all the art! Spread the news about the event by posting about it in your stories, reels and posts.

We are always blown away at what your uniquely creative minds come up with.

Make sure to follow #WINTERBurntWeek to see the all the artworks made during the challenge or Check out Some past challenges here.

Let’s join our voices together and raise the entire community up. Keep spreading the love and happy burning!

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Donate to One Tree Planted - 2022

One thing that is really important to us, here at Wood Burn Corner, is giving back!

Each year we give back to our community in as many ways as possible. We donate our time, products, money, and also love sharing information for free with our community.

This year (2022) we are super proud to announce that 10,000 trees have been planted because of our little business.

@onetreeplanted is such an incredible organization that takes $1 and plants 1 tree with it, which means, because of you all, Wood Burn Corner planted 10,000 trees this year. TEN THOUSAND! (That’s like a mini forest! )

We got word that our specific donation is being used to plant 10,000 fruit trees in India, where not only will it help with air quality, but will also provide food and jobs for people of that region.

Thanks to all your support and purchases, we were able to give our largest donation to date to the non-profit organization, One Tree Planted!

One Tree Planted makes it easier for both individuals and businesses to give back to the environment, create a healthier climate, protect biodiversity, and help reforestation efforts.

Here is how it works:

Trees play such an integral role in our World, and we want to be part of the solution.

Did you know?

Every 1.2 seconds, man destroys an area of forest as big as a football field. This is why we feel the need to give back to the trees that make it so we can create our art and why we choose to use wood from sustainable sources.

Click here for some more interesting facts about trees and the impact of deforestation around the world.

WANT TO HELP THE ENVIRONMENT?

Best Wood for Pyrography

Wood is the most common surface for pyrography! There are other surfaces you can burn on, but wood 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.

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.

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

Please note there are affiliate links below. We always link to products we know and love and personally have used ourselves!

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 so it doesn’t effect your burn as much as other woods.

The even, light color makes it the perfect canvas for wood burning. Oh and the color of the wood only darkens slightly when adding any oils or finishes. Other woods can get much darker.

It is easily found with the very classic tree-bark live-edge, making the perfect rustic rounds.

The bonus with basswood is that because it’s 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, sustainability efforts, 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 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.

One slight downfall is that cherry contains some natural sap, which can release potentially irritating fumes when burned so please, as with any wood surface you are burning on, proceed with safety and caution.

I love cherry for it’s warm, reddish tone and rich colour. 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.

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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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, which is my favourite part about this wood - it's easy to recognize and the colours on it can add to your design. 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 is subtle and you can barely feel anything at all when burning, especially if sanded properly!

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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.

It also contains a natural compound called juglone, which can cause respiratory irritation when burned in large amounts (if you burn hot) or over long periods of time. It’s essential to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask and follow ALL safety precautions, as with any other woods you are working with.

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. It is a dream is you burn deep like I do.

We know and love Walnut Hollow for their variety of wood, sustainability efforts, as well as the quality! They have buttery smooth Walnut - get 15% off your order using the coupon code: WBC15

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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 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’s easy to 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.

WARNING! Cedar is a very resinous wood. All kinds of cedar, but especially ones like Western Red Cedar, contain natural oils and resins, (creosote) which may release harmful fumes when burned (more fumes when heated very high). I wouldn’t go out of my way to buy this wood for a project, but I had a lot on hand after a building project. Always wear a mask and follow safety precautions when burning on any type of wood.

Also, 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!

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Runner-up Wood Surfaces to Burn On

1. Beech

2. Cork (Be careful with this one! Not all cork is made with glue, so make sure to use natural cork which is made directly from the bark of the cork oak tree).

3. Ash

4. Mahogany

5. Alder

6. Sycamore

7. Cypress

8. Willow

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Check out the DO NOT BURN ON list here.

Click Here for pyrography surfaces to burn on that are not wood!

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.

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The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - Volume 2

I am beyond excited to share my third book, The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates, Volume 2!

This book is a dream realized: a pyrography book of templates created by our community for the community. This book of templates is a beautiful collection of designs for artists at all stages from our incredibly talented and diverse community.

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!

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!

The 34 Featured Pyrography Artists

Follow them and tag them in the pieces you create!

@woodburncorner

@finelinepyro

@sweetpeachburns

@PatesPyrography

@Calisanja

@bonidutch

@BreMakingThings

@Dioni_isalasart

@carolinerenck_art

@woodburntflorals

@Soulfulmuse_

@prettyful.creations

@knotsandembers

@JennaJesseePyrography

@JenniferRHeuertz

@Resha_alhussaini

@UrbanFarmFoods

@the.wandering.pyro

@Burlap2LaceCreations

@mapleandfernco

@soulwoodart

@CompletelyDevoted_Designs

@itsdavidandrenee

@ReSaArtHouse

@alteredpathartstudio

@theroderickshop

@Plaid.and.Peaches

@LittleBlackBirdDesigns

@taciejensen

@heckman_woodworking

@RiverValleyPyro

@kelsieart

@blindlove.woodburning

@brandyroels

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

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Find more patterns Here:

in the template books or VISIT the templates store full of individual patterns for sale.

Or inspiration and Project ideas in The Wood Burn Book

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How to Name Your Artwork

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David and Renee are the double-duo behind It's David and Renee and specialize in creating sustainably sourced, specialty wood surfaces for other artists to use as a canvas for their own art. They also create thier own fine art pieces, including multi-media pyrography and artisan woodcraft.

Renee of @itsdavidandrenee is such a fabulous pyrographer and person.

Her pyrography is BOLD! Her color choices and sparkle factors alone speak for themselves.

Do yourself a huge favor and follow this wonderful human and artist. Let’s help support her and her husband, David, their art and their delicious wood slice canvases!

Find It’s David and Renee on:

Instagram, Facebook Pinterest, TikTok and their website!

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Playing the Name Game with Wood Art: Using the Best Descriptive Words to Elevate You Art in the Mind’s Eye

Guest blog post by Renee of @itsdavidandrenee

So, you’ve made some wood art and now you have to give your piece a name. Whether you’re naming your art based off the subject matter, such as “Whimsical Ladybugs in a Coneflower Garden” or “The Queen’s Crown” or whatever it may be, OR you’re writing a descriptive title of your piece to go into a gallery, there are steps you must take to achieve a solid, effective title that communicates the best properties of your art.

Here are 5 things you should consider when choosing a name for your art:

We’ll dive deep into all five tips below.

1. Use sensory adjectives

2. Write as if they already have the art in their hands

3. Don’t assume they’ll notice the details

4. Describe the wood canvas, not just the artwork design

5. Describe the artwork design or subject matter

Use Sensory Adjectives

Sensory words are a MUST! Describing art can be tricky depending on how the art is meant to be consumed. A large art installment full of textiles you can touch and feel is different than a somber war memorial installment, a modern light show, Van Gogh’s Immersive Experiences, or sidewalk chalk art. Even still, those are entirely different than your piece of wood art. Most people are going to be using sight and touch for your wood art, not taste, sound, or smell, so using strong visual sensory adjectives is KEY!

Write as if They Already Have the Art in Their Hands

Pretend someone walks into a gift shop and picks up your artwork to ooo and awe over it! Put yourself in their shoes. What are they looking at? What’s the first thing they notice? How does it feel in their hands? Is it physically smooth? Does it have delicate bark chipping off? Is it a large, heavy wood slice? If they’re looking at it up close and personal, what are they seeing? Are they seeing the crispness of your lines? The glitter, shimmer, and shine of your metallic paint? Are they experiencing the iridescence of holographic foil? Are they embracing the textures of the various fibers in your fiber art? Consider what their “pretend” in-person experience of holding your art is like, and use those descriptors in your online descriptions. Make your customer imagine holding your art in their hands.

Don’t Assume They’ll Notice the Details 

Do NOT assume they’ll notice all those above details you worked so hard to achieve. What some people notice, others won’t. Not everyone experiences art the same way. Describe all those details you’re so proud of!

Just like in the above example, you’re going to want to tell them what they’re looking at., even if you think it sounds silly. Example: “When holding this brilliantly vibrant piece in your hands, you’ll notice how the dancing glitter shimmers and shines in the light. The glitter within these paints brings a depth to the pigments that can be truly appreciated when holding this piece at book-reading distance. You’ll also notice the physically indented texture of the woodburned lines and crisp stippled dots when you run your fingers over the textured areas.”

Point out those details! They will appreciate the senses of enjoying your work in person, even if they’re reading your description from the other side of the screen.

Describe the Wood Canvas, Not Just the Artwork Design

Wood canvases are super special and unique, because they themselves have their own characteristics- species, color, shape, thickness, surface texture, grain patterns, smoothness, chatoyance, etc. You should be describing these characteristics and how they play into your artwork, both in your title and in the written description.

People who utilize the standard white canvases from the craft stores usually don’t describe their canvas, because those canvases aren’t unique and don’t play into the effect of the painting. They almost all have the same texture, they all have a wooden frame behind them, and honestly, they’re just plain. Someone can say “canvas,” and you already know what that looks like. It’s already in your mind’s eye. You would just be describing the artwork that you put on the canvas, like “oil painting on canvas” or “fiber art mixed media on canvas.”

But when someone says “wood,” what do you automatically imagine? Rustic basswood? Refined cherry? There are so many varieties and possibilities that it’s guaranteed everyone will imagine something different.

There is a whole world of wood. “Acrylic painting on wood.” What does that tell you? NADA. What kind of wood? Can you even tell your artwork is on wood? Does the wood have live edge bark? Is it a crisp, clean cut piece of wood? GIMME THE DEETS! Is it thick, like ¾”, or is it a thin slice of birch plywood? Your people need to know. Your people should be able to imagine this piece of wood without looking at it.

“Pyrography on wood.”

Absolutely not. Needs waaaayyyy more.

“Pyrography on Maple.”

Nope, still needs more. Describe that Maple.

“Pyrography on an Ambrosia Maple panel.”

More. What does the panel look like? Does it have bark? What shape is it? Is it a round wood slice? Is it a clean-cut panel? More.

“Pyrography on a low-profile, 8” square Ambrosia Maple wood panel.”

Much better! You described the shape, the size, the species, and its side profile (meaning how far it sticks out from the wall).

“Pyrography on a small, round live-edge Basswood wood slice.”

Yep! This is pretty good. Again, you described the shape, the relative size, the species, and its bark features.

I would say those titles are not too wordy but not too stingy on descriptors.

Describe the Artwork Design or Subject Matter

In the above example, we’re using “pyrography,” so let’s continue with that. We need to expand the “pyrography” part of the name. Is your pyro art colored or painted? Is it mixed media? What is an adjective you would use to describe this piece? What is the subject matter of your art? A crazy-colored symmetrical mandala is obviously a way different subject matter than a sepia-toned realistic dog portrait.

*Visually-descriptive adjectives have entered the chat*

Let’s get our list of adjectives out. What does it LOOK like? What kinds of words would you use to describe your art to your grandmother over the phone?

You: “Hi Memaw! Yes ma’am, I’m good. I made some new art. What kind of art? Well, um. It’s woodburned art, I do woodburning.”

Your Memaw: *Doesn’t really know what that means and imagines her living room fireplace with burnt logs.* “Oh, you burn wood? Well that’s… nice.”

This lack of description is confusing to your Memaw. You gotta describe it to her as if you’re in a museum describing it.

When I was in college, I was a professional note-taker for the visually- and hearing-impaired students through the Office of Disabilities. I went to classes that had deaf or blind students, and took notes for them. I got really good at descriptors and adjectives when I was assigned to an art history class and took notes of all the famous art. My visually-impaired clients needed to be able to read my notes out-loud through their computer programs to study later on, so it was my job to make sure I communicated details very effectively. This is the same concept here. Describe your art to someone who is not looking at it.

Here are a few examples:

Vibrant, Dark, Shadowy, Moody, Technicolor, Bright, Playful, Geometric, Detailed, Realistic, Contrasting, Lively, Muted, Monochromatic, Symmetrical, Abstract, Mystical

And the list goes on and on. (This would be a great time to make your own list of adjectives!)

Anyway, back to the example.

We ended #4’s example with “Pyrography on a low-profile, 8” square Ambrosia Maple wood panel.” Let’s use that crazy-colored symmetrical mandala subject matter I mentioned, too. Let’s say the center of the mandala is centered in the middle of the square, and the mandala has vibrant, shimmery pink and purple paints neatly painted in the curves and motifs of the mandala, alternating between the various shades of pinks and purples and radiating out to the edge of the mandala. The negative space around the mandala is just the natural wood with no paint.

To me, in my head, I imagine this piece as very bright, starkly eye-catching, crisp and clean, vibrant and radiant, with even lines, perfectly-spaced swirls and motifs that centrically expand from the center of the mandala. I see these shimmery pink and purple paints catching the sunlight juuuust right, making them seem like they’re glowing from the wood.

“Pyrography on wood” just doesn’t cut it.

“Mandala pyrography.”

Nope. It’s so much more than that. Describe it.

“Symmetrical mandala pyrography.”

Ehh. Closer, but that still isn’t capturing the essence of the piece. DEETS! I NEED THE DEETS!

“Radiant, symmetrical mandala mixed-media pyrography art handburned on a low-profile, 8” square Ambrosia Maple wood panel.”

YES. YESYESYESYES. This is perfect. You have now described the art’s physical appearance (radiant), the subject matter (symmetrical mandala), the media (pyrography and mixed-media), the method of creation (you, “handburned”), the medium (the wood) and the details of the wood. 

I would say to follow this Krabby Patty secret formula every time, however, there will always be exceptions to this rule. If you feel like this is too wordy, maybe change out the adjectives to shorten it. If you feel it needs more for your piece, then add a little more.

And remember, if you’re writing a longer description underneath your title or in the description box on your website, you can add more details there. Do what feels right for you and your style of writing, but don’t sell yourself short.

Words are Powerful

To sum it all up, words are powerful. Language evokes the senses. Use your words the best you can to convey the best name, title, and/or description possible.

Make your people envision your art in their head by using sensory words and specific, descriptive adjectives. Put yourself in your customers’ shoes and play pretend. What they notice, feel, see, and experience can be captured in a great description. Play the name game with your wood art. Put just as much effort into naming and describing your art as you did into designing and creating your art. Your website visitors, in-person shoppers, gallery viewers, and whoever else will notice and appreciate these details.

Fall Burnt Week 2022

Burnt Challenges are a call to artists of all skill levels to create an original piece of pyrography artwork based on a specific word, or what we like to call, a prompt! Check out Some past challenges here

This challenge is an excellent way for wood burning artists to grow their portfolio, try new things, push their craft, meet other pyrographers, hone their skills, gain followers, sell art, and have a ton of fun while they are at it!

Having a restriction, like following a specific prompt, can really bring out creativity in people. These prompts are known to get people inspired and trying new things. Things they perhaps wouldn’t have tried otherwise.

The challenges are living in the wood burning community on Instagram. Follow us there or join Burn Club+ to get your prompts in advance for the next Burnt Challenge and to suggest your own prompts. We are changing things up this time around, and are excited for you to see what’s new!

Fall Burnt Week 2022

We are so excited to be teaming up with our sponsor, Walnut Hollow, to bring you this new and upgraded challenge that ran from October 24th to the 28th!!

We had more prizes than ever and tried out a fun new way to choose prompts!

The prompts were suggested by the Burn Club+ Community. We got a whole list of really funny and unique but very random nouns + adjectives. To make it even more fun and to keep artists thinking outside of the box, we pulled one noun and one adjective randomly out of a hat!

Below are the featured artists for each prompt:

@brittnibeeart created this adorable little critter and we fell in love.

It’s so whimsical and sweet. All of the little details on the wings, in the fur, on the trees, it’s cute little headband, and those little candy corns it’s crunching on.

So much texture and the way the color was added really makes this piece quite enchanting.

Beautifully done! Please go give @brittnibeeart a follow for more beautiful art in this unique style.

@maggienicoleart created this perfect little piece. We love the fine little details of these germies. The burn is so clean and crisp!

Our favorite part, though, is the glowing aspect. It is so subtle, you may miss it. Do you see it? The germs are little various forms of lightbulbs! 💡 It’s such a cool idea and it is perfectly executed.

Looks just like the bacteria and viruses we’ve seen under microscopes.

Well done, @maggienicoleart. Please go follow this awesome artist.

@calico.callie.ink created this original design, and so much more. For the entire week she has been building on an incredible story that you have to go and read for yourself!

This burn is absolutely beautiful with its textures, and shapes, and shading, and colors, and her storytelling is phenomenal.

Zoom in on all of the beautifully moody details of this piece and then go back to her first post for the week and read the whole story so far.

This piece is brilliant and so creative, we are beyond excited to get to share it with you all. Give @calico.callie.ink a follow!

@theroderickshop called this piece “Ballet of Pines” and we are just obsessed with those elves.

The movement in these dancers, the grain in their skin, and the fact that they use PINECONES as their tutus.

He wrote, “Tonight for one night only the Forest Elves will allow the humans to enter their enchanted wood for the annual performance of the Ballet of Pines - a dance honoring The Royal Conifer at the center of their wood. I was quite touched to be asked to design this year's poster.” It is just incredible that two words, VIBRANT and PINECONES, can bring out this level of creativity.

Just so cool. Please go give this amazing artist, @theroderickshop a follow!

@unamanu_design created this adorable collection and we just love the direction they took this.

Trendy apples throughout history. What a cool concept! Here is what they wrote:
“1250 b.C. A golden apple has become very fashion, many Goddesses desired her (3)
1300 William Tell's apple
1400 Snow White's apple… seriously the most dangerous. There were many fashion victims !
1666 A very serious apple that explained the law of gravity to Newton
1920 J.J.Fitzgerald was the first to refer to NY as the big apple.
1964 A green apple became famous thanks to Magritte
1977 3 guys used a colored apple to make their computer famous”

I love when these prompts are also educational. Great burn(s) @unamanu_design - Everyone please go give @unamanu_design a follow!

We would like to give a HUGE THANKS to the co-sponsor/co-host @walnuthollow for making this such an awesome week full of amazing art! I could not do this without you all. Thank you for being such an amazingly supportive company for our community, and for making such great products for us all to make our art on and with! Thank you @walnuthollow!!!

AND

A HUGE THANK YOU. To every single one of you that participated and supported this challenge and these artists! This community rocks.

Make sure to follow the #fallburntweek hashtag and check out our stories and @walnuthollow for some of our favorite posts from yesterdays wild prompt!

Where Else did you and your artwork can get featured?

Both @walnuthollow (our Sponsor) + @woodburncorner select artists for each prompt to feature in:

• both Walnut Hollow + Wood Burn Corner Instagram posts + stories

• on this blog post once the challenge is over

• our Facebook page

• as well as on Pinterest

What did people win

There are many prizes and a pre-challenge giveaway for sharing about the challenge.

Wood Burn Corner gave away a daily prize! Each winner got to choose from the following:

• Digital Copy of Template Book (Volume 1)

• Digital Copy of Template Book (Volume 2)

• Signed copy of The Wood Burn Book

• Complete Wood Burning and Business Toolkit (Value $749)

• Access to Pyrography and Business Summit Recordings (Value $240)

Walnut Hollow gave each daily winner a $100 gift card to spend on their website: www.walnuthollow.com as well as a Walnut Hollow t-shirt and stickers!

How to join in on the challenge NExt time

Learn about the next challenge first by joining Burn Club+. Then Burn Club hears about the challenge next and then we announce publicly onto our instagram feed.

To participate in this everyday wood burning challenge, post a photo of your prompt-inspired piece (on instagram) on the date listed using #FallBurntWeek and mention both @woodburncorner + our sponsor @walnuthollow.

That’s it! It’s that easy.

Can I still join in but not burn?

If you are not able to participate by making art, you can still show your fellow pyro pals some love by sharing, commenting, saving, and liking all the art! Spread the news about the event by posting about it in your stories, reels and posts.

We are always blown away at what your uniquely creative minds come up with.

Make sure to follow #FallBurntWeek to see the all the artworks made during the challenge or Check out Some past challenges here.

Let’s join our voices together and raise the entire community up. Keep spreading the love and happy burning!

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Free Radial Symmetry Poppy for Wood Burning

I am so excited to share this pattern with you all! I cannot wait to see your version burned. Below is mine. I created this one piece on a cherry wood slice.

The first one on the left is before adding color. The second on the right was filled in with a light watercolor layer. I was going for a washed/fadded sort of look but it seemed too dull. Especially for the classic California poppy!

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So, on this last version below, I added a second layer of paint with a thicker, less watered down watercolor.

Fun fact: This is the very first collaboration between Rachel Strauss, founder of Wood Burn Corner and me, Basia Chmielowiec of @finelinepyro. It came together during a pyrography challenge where Rachel prompted us to burn the poppies she drew. The original poppy design (and also a free downloadable template) can be found HERE.

My love of the mandala definitely inspired this prompt and using the Procreate app on my iPad, I merged Rachel’s poppies into a repetitive circular pattern! Can’t wait to see you burn it!

NOT SURE HOW TO GET THis Radial Symmetry POPPy ONTO YOUR WOOD?

Check out the instructions on how to heat transfer an image onto your wood slice or how to transfer without using heat!

If you are brand new to pyrography and want a quick start guide, head over to the blog post: Start Here if you are NEW to Wood Burning

FOR MORE GREAT TEMPLATES TO PRACTICE YOUR PYROGRAPHY SKILLS WITH, CHECK OUT:

THE WOOD BURN COMMUNITY BOOK OF TEMPLATES or

THE WOOD BURN COMMUNITY BOOK OF TEMPLATES Volume 2

How to get rid of mistakes and graphite/pencil 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 - we only recommend items that we 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). For small areas, try a tiny sanding stick or wrap some sandpaper on a ruler or wood slice if in a pinch,

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. Try to burn around the area instead of on top as burning the same spot will result in a deeper burn which may stand out and cannot be fixed.

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 or the heat 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:

   Start here as the eraser gets the majority of the lines off or at least makes them much lighter and less visible.

2. Give it a VERY light sanding with sandpaper:

   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). You can also use a toothbrush, air compressor (like the ones people use to clean their keyboards - they have motorized ones which are better for the environment and more portable than a construction one), or a microfibre cloth.

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

1. Firstly, use graphite paper or blue chaco paper. Carbon lines are much much harder to take off!

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.

Interview with Kristyn Burney - Creative Business Mentor and Coach

Kristyn Burney is a gem and such an inspiration!

Listen in o this interview and learn how she built several 6 figure business, manages family life and coaches others to do the same. This is how to dream big and go for those goals!

Find Kristyn Burney on Instagram for loads of tips and tricks for entrepreneurs and and shop super cool door mats on her Etsy shop!

"Go with the flow of what is energetically right for you".

This interview was created for Burn Club+ in 2020, and was just now released to the public.

Rachel's February Reading List

February was a shorter month, and work on the Pyrography + Business Summit picked up, so I didn’t get quite as many books read as I would have liked. What I did read, I mostly enjoyed, and I am excited to share them with you.

All books are linked directly to Amazon for easy purchasing. I receive a tiny portion of Amazon’s profits if you choose to purchase one, but this in no way effects my reviews. I will always be honest with my thoughts on products, books, services, etc.

1. Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuk - I really like Gary as a no-nonsense speaker on business. He is a bit abrasive, but in a good, motivating way. This book talks about give, give, giving before you ask of your customers/clients. The jabs being the value you provide and the right hooks being the ask. Effot is important for telling your unique story in a noisy world.

2. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng - I liked this book, ok. It is a NY Times Bestseller, but I have read better as of late. The characters were well developed, there is an artist in the story, and a couple twists and turns. There is a push and pull with the storyline, and it is clear that there is no black and white or wrong and right when it comes to some things, and there are plenty of those in this book. Well written.

3. The Power of Persuasion by John Myers - Lots of persuasive tactics. At one point he lists off over a hundred different ways to convince people to do something. It is also helpful in being able to spot persuasion when it is being used on you.

4. How to Stop Time by Matt Haig - “It only takes a moment to live.” This was a very cool book. Gets you thinking about the long and short of history and how it repeats itself. Really enjoyed the concept and the name drops throughout. I loved how the author played with time, locations and memories. “Sometimes you can just look around and be happy right where you are.”

5. Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover - Another great story from Coleen Hoover. Heartache, death, forgiveness, and connection, this book has it all and you will fly through it. You will feel for the main character who is stuck in an impossible situation. “Regret keeps you stuck on pause.” Makes you think about mistakes that you have made in life, and how one small act can change everything. “Are you going to live in the sadness or die in it?”

6. On The Shortness of Life by Seneca - This was recommended by several Titans in their fields out of the book Tools of Titans by Timothy Ferris. It is a really really old book written by a Roman philosopher. It is said her wrote it to his father-in-law, a mortal essay. It has since been translated and transcribed over time. “Life is long if you know how to use it.”

7. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon - Our Keynote Speaker for the upcoming Pyrography + Business Summit! This is a NY Times bestselling book with over 1 million copies sold in English alone. Such a great read that I think every artist out there should get their hands on. “Do good work and share it with people.”

8. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens - This was a STUNNING book! So incredibly well written, and made you feel like you were there, in Kya’s beautiful world. It is a story of perseverance through extreme neglect, trauma, and solitude. A beautifully sad story that definitely made me weep. Trigger warning for SA.

9. Talk Triggers by Jay Baer and Daniel Lemin - This book was all about ways to get the most powerful and efficient marketing tool, word-of-mouth, to trigger. The types of talk triggers that can be utilized for business, and how to get it working for yours. It was good and I got a couple good points out of it, but I think it is best for larger corporations rather than small creative businesses.

10. Show Your Work by Austin Kleon - Another book that EVERY ARTIST NEEDS TO READ! Do good work, and the rest will come. This author, Austin Kleon, is so great at getting right to the point in both his writing and illustrations. For a visual learner, like myself, this is really helpful. Can’t recommend his trilogy enough, and so excited to hear him speak in May at our Summit!

Want to know what I read in January? Check out Rachel's January Reading List

Burnt March 2022

Burnt Challenges are a call to all artists to create a piece of artwork using pyrography based on a specific word or what we like to call, a prompt!

This challenge is for wood burning artists of all stages and is an excellent way to grow your portfolio, try new things, push your craft, meet other pyrographers, hone your skills, gain followers, sell art, and have a ton of fun while you are at it!

Having a restriction, like following a specific prompt, can really bring out creativity in people. These prompts are known to get people inspired and trying new things. Things they perhaps wouldn’t have thought of that are out of their norm.

The challenges are living in the wood burning community on Instagram. Follow us there or join Burn Club+ to get your prompts in advance next Burnt Month.

Both Walnut Hollow (our Sponsor) + @woodburncorner select artists for each prompt to feature in both instagram posts and stories, as well as on Pinterest. We have chosen some participants and they have won some awesome pyrography goodies!!

We are blown away at what your uniquely creative mind came up with using these prompts. Below are the featured artists or make sure to check out #burntmarch to enjoy all the beautiful art - it’s like a fee art gallery!! (scroll down a bit to “Most recent” to see the newest works!)

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Check out even more past challenges here!

How to support the artists:

If you are wood burning and participated or not, feel free to comment on the posts you enjoy and let the artists know know how stellar their work is! You can also save, share and re-post to help them get even more exposure!

Make sure to check out the hashtag on insta: #burntmarch - the free art gallery. Follow your favorites! Keep sharing and spreading the love.

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5 Common Pyrography Myths

Megan of @happicamperkc is such a fabulous pyrographer and person. I had the good fortune to get to meet her in person, where we talked about pyrography and small business for hours!

Her pyrography is BOLD! Her color choices alone speak for themselves. She has learned a thing or two in her years as a wood burning artist, and she is sharing her knowledge with us.

Do yourself a huge favor and follow this wonderful human and artist. Let’s help support her so she can make her dream of becoming a full time artist a reality!

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Guest blog post by Megan of @happicamperkc

Find Megan on Facebook - Instagram - Etsy

SUPPORT HAPPI CAMPER ON PATREON “We do, and her posts are always filled with knowledge, love, happiness, and COLOR!”

5 Common Myths When it Comes To Wood Burning

The art of wood burning has changed a lot in the past few decades, and with this change, many misconceptions have come along. I want to help clear things up and tell you the most common myths about this hot-n-trendy medium:

MYTH #1 : All wood is equal in pyrography.

Nope. Like way nope. To me, the best wood types for burning are: Basswood, aspen, Baltic birch. I would 1000% avoid pine and plywood. Each kind burns differently. And it is a preference thing. It's just pine is really difficult with the soft/hardness and plywood straight up has dangerous fumes due to the glue they use when in manufacturing.

MYTH #2 : Watercolor will make your wood crack every time.

Nah, the trick is: Less water. More patience. Also the thinner your pieces, the more likely they are to crack. As long as you're using 1/2" or thicker you will be fine using watercolors on wood art.

MYTH #3 : I can make art like yours with my plug-n-play burner my grandma gave me.

I get this one a lot with peeps who see my art on social media, and then maybe come to my burning classes. Unfortunately, no this is NOT the case. I use a professional-grade burner that gets up to 1000 degrees hotter than your 1986 wood burner pen.

To get those hot, hot burn lines like I do I recommend getting a Razertip, Colwood or Optima burner tool.

That's not to say you can't do amazing art with a Walnut Hollow Creative burner. Just check out Hippie North.

MYTH #4 : Wood burning smoke is no more harmful than a campfire.

Listen. You only get 2 lungs. And you freakin' need them. When I started burning in 2012, I thought the smokiness was no worse than camping. But if you're like me and you wood burn WEEKLY, safety MUST come first.

Use a fan to pull smoke away. Wear a charcoal lined mask. Open windows. If you don't regret it now. You'll regret it later.

MYTH #5 : It's easy.

Ha! It's not. People go into wood burning thinking that it's like moving a brush across canvas or pen on paper. Pyrography is a whole 'nother beast and it will take time for you to get a feel for how you want to burn.