Learning Pyrography Part 1

On this week's show, something a little different as I take you through the process of wood burning on one of my wooden cases. I hope you enjoy the program.
If you are interested in obtaining the pattern for this project, I got it in the book entitle Big Book of Pyrography Projects. Here is the amazon link. www.amazon.ca/Big-Book-Pyrogr...
During this entire series, I am using a Razertip wood burning system. You can find them here. www.leevalley.com/en-ca/shop/...
Lee Valley also offers an assorted of burning pens for this system. www.leevalley.com/en-ca/shop/...
If you haven't already, please consider liking and subscribing to the channel. While you are at it, don't forget to click the bell so that you don't miss notifications of future episodes of the program. As always, I want to thank you for stopping by the channel and taking the time to tune in to the show. It is very much appreciated.

[@raymondbradford1642]

I look forward to the next show and that grid idea it will really help me remember the process of getting different shades, thank you Kenny.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The grid is a great way to track your progress, practice and have a record of what you did to make it repeatable. Good luck on it Raymond and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@daviddearden5625]

That's a far cry from the wood burning sets we had as kids. Thank you for bringing us yet another technique of wood art.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I couldn't agree more David. They have come a long way since those days. I remember the one I had as a child (I never really was able to do much with it) but it looked like an oversized soldering iron with removable brass tips for burning different patterns and shades. It was a very awkward device. The burners of today are much more sleek and user friendly. Thanks for tuning in to the show this week. I hope that you will tune in next Tuesday for the finale.

[@Webbloke01]

Thanks for the tutorial Kenny. Concise, yet informative. Looking forward to watching more before my burner arrives today and I can start putting it all into practice.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you liked the tutorial Jeff. It takes practice for sure but once you get the hang of the shading and how to used the different tips, you can obtain some pretty nice results. Good luck with your burning and thanks for tuning in.

[@kiko7247]

That's amazing! Exactly what I was looking for. You explain very well and it's easy to understand. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. I'm definitely going to watch part 2 & 3.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I hope you enjoy part 2 and 3 as much as you enjoyed part 1 Kiko. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave the kind words. It's appreciated.

[@ant5747]

I love that you take your time to explain the purpose of each tool and technique. You're very well spoken and the absence of the trailing "uh" and "uhm" is refreshing for a curious minded person who finds himself watching all kinds of informative art vids. You rock dude.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thank you very much Anthony. I love reading comments like yours. I normally get comments like I "talk too much". LOL. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave your comment. I truly appreciate it.

[@rohnsleather9986]

I enjoyed that one and am looking forward to the next one.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you enjoyed it Rohn. It was a very difficult series to produce and although I know what to do with the different techniques, it doesn't always translate well to camera. Feel free to give your honest critique as the series continues in order to assist me in improving future pyrography projects. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@donnaayers2161]

I really LOVE your shows. I have watched this one and 2 & 3 over and over so I'll be able to do it right. Your information about tools and copying is so informative. I was using carbon paper but have now switched to graphite paper and it is so much nicer. I have also made my board for different tips and settings. I can't believe how much that helps. I have just learned so much from you, I can't say Thank You enough.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm glad to hear it Donna. Wood burning is a very relaxing and enjoyable craft and it just takes a little bit of patience and some good preparation to get good results. Having that test board is a fantastic was to see what the pen is going to do before you place it to the wood. I hope you continue to burn and if you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to ask. I was just thinking today that I really need to film another tutorial piece. Maybe your kind words is all the push I needed for that. Thanks for tuning in and for the inspiration.

[@BM-rq2vl]

Very clear, descriptions in general and in detail. The before and after examples and differences between what is correct technique and what does not give good result. Great video with step by step basics, shows on the spot examples as Kenny speaks. His voice and pace are calm easy to listen to as if he actually has a person in the room. A real cool teacher. One of the best top instruction video' s that I have come across on youtube

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thank you very much for the kind words and for tuning in to the show. It is very much appreciated. I'm glad that you enjoyed it.

[@drochon6672]

My wife bought me a nice kit for Christmas 3 yrs ago. I’ve only used it to initial projects. Perhaps now I can use it the way it was intended. I like the story board idea and will start there. Thanks for the video.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Sadly Dennis, this is what most people end up using their wood burners for and they are seriously denying themselves a whole new world of fun and enjoyment. I hope that this series will give you some inspiration to be able to take you wood burner to the next level. If you have any questions along the way, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@Angela-dh5mm]

Such a good video. Thank you. Excellent. So clear and so easy to understand.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm glad that you liked it Angela. Thank you for the kind words and for tuning in to the show.

[@iwonka]

I like the way you teach. I love how you speak slowly and clearly and I can understand you. Thank you for this video. Going to find the next part to this pyro series. Thank you.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Iwonka. I'm glad to hear that you are enjoying the series. Thank you for tuning in and for taking the time to leave the kind words. It's very much appreciated.

[@johnhope4905]

another first class presented video, will tune in for the other videos

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad to have you aboard for the ride John. Glad to hear that you are enjoying it and I can't thank you enough for the kind words and for tuning in.

[@maca.motalica4463]

You sir are an awesome teacher. So detailed and professional. Thank you.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm glad that you enjoyed the show. Thanks for tuning in and for the kind words.

[@SWIFTY5150]

Thanks for the tips! Much appreciated👍

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Aaron. I hope you enjoyed the show. Thanks for tuning in.

[@scottconger1266]

Hi.ken, im just getting into wood burning, thanks for the info. It has been a great help.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Scott. I'm glad that you found the show useful. If you have any questions along the way, please don't hesitate to ask. I'm hoping to have another pyrography tutorial on the channel in the near future. Thanks for tuning in.

[@shadows397]

wood burning has come a long ways from candles and paper clips, way back when.. great work!!!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It certainly has come a long way. Thanks for tuning in and for taking the time to leave the kind words. It's very much appreciated.

[@marlenerowland6130]

Fantastic ken i,m just starting wood burning ive learnt alot in just asmall time thank you regards marlene

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Pyrography is a whole whack of fun Marlene and I'm glad that you've started learning it. The biggest mistake that folks make when trying to burn a picture is that they try to burn everything at once. In other words, they have the burner turned up too high and try to achieve a dark shading on the first pass of the pen. It's important to build up layers of shade so that you can build depth. It takes patience but it is well worth the effort. Thanks for tuning in and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I would be more that happy to help out if I can.

[@RonanKearney1]

A man of many talents. Nice one Kenny

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words Ronan. Haven't seen a post from you in a while. I hope you are still working with the ukes. Thanks for tuning in to the show sir.

[@KE-cq5pn]

Best tutorial i have seen, thank you

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you liked it. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@vivianeb90]

Some great tips! Thanks.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Viv. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@joshbuck5877]

I'm a beginner and I really like the way you explained this video thank you. I was wondering how to figure out different tones of burn now I know a practice board. I liked your video and Im a new subscriber 👍

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you found the show useful Josh and were able to take something positive away from it. Welcome aboard as a subscriber. Glad to have you here. Thanks for tuning in and for taking the time to leave the comment. Be sure to ask any questions that you may have. I'd be more than happy to help out if I can.

[@PENFOLD1962]

Excellent video, some very good info. Since burning I have picked up the odd TIP, when printing out your line drawing to trace I print the line drawing in a colour such as green or red so I can then see where I have traced with the pencil!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Great tip Andrew. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for chiming in with your suggestion. It's very much appreciated.

[@AlbiesProductsOnline]

If you take some of the cork sheet leftover from your pin board project and stick a layer to the bottom of the fan it will not have that loud vibration noise

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I like the way you think Allan. I will do that. A little bit of spray adhesive and BAM!!! instant padding for the smoke fan. Thank you for the suggestion and for tuning in to the show this week.

[@georgekabacinski]

Very nice work.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm glad that you liked it George. Thanks for the kind words and for tuning in to the show.

[@CptnCobblestone]

This is amazing! I’m so glad you showed me the graphite paper. I was wondering how to get it on to the paper. If only there was a quicker way.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I have heard, but never tried, that if you print your design with a laser printer that uses toner, you can use a hot iron and it will transfer your pattern via heat. Glad that you enjoyed the show. Thanks for tuning in.

[@Loki1488x]

Yes, right, it also works with iron and laser print. But when you burn over that pattern with its toner, it will create unhealthy smoke...

[@FiveFifteen]

Very helpful, per usual. Thanks Ken! Can you recommend a starter set of pens / tips to get with the initial system setup?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Three main pens that I use in most burning Dan would be the writing tip, a skew of some kind and a shading spoon. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@rcgkreations]

Great teaching, thank you

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm glad that you liked it. Thank you for tuning in to the show. It's very much appreciated.

[@jonton6541]

Hey Kenny, thank you for the informative video! I'll definitely be watching the 2nd part but I wanted to ask you if you show how to wire the fan you have? Its a great idea to have the fan next to one when doing these projects. You probably show it in a video but thought I'd ask real quick. Thanks again!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

This is a 120 volt fan. There are two leads on the fan body where one is hot (black wire) and one is return (white wire). I just soldered an old appliance cord onto those leads and used heat shrink rubber tubing on the joint to seal it up. That's all there is to it. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in. It's appreciated.

[@TheBeerbelly007]

Looking forward to this---

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Well I hope the series doesn't disappoint. Thanks for tuning in to the show today. It's appreciated.

[@Alloran]

The test board is genius. Like a painter's pallet for wood.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It makes it much easier to decide how you want to burn your project and it also provides some great practice. Thanks for tuning in and for taking the time to leave the kind words.

[@dilipkumar8625]

Thankyou kenny for the great video on wood burning can you please let us know the the temparature requirement for the wood burning tool ( what should be ideal temperature range for the wood burning tool )

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The temperature range isn't something that I really pay attention to Dilip. There are many other ways to control your burning, other than the temperature of the pen. There is pen speed, pen pressure and even the position of the tip in relation to the wood, can all produce varying results at the same temperature. With that being said, the unit that I use in this video series has a range of 340-1400 degrees Fahrenheit and I have never had a problem achieving the results that I was after. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@_poggersinnit_4926]

Very good tutorial

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you liked it Ruby. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@anawhatley9321]

Hi, great video. Is it me or the tools I have that Bamboo wood is a pain to work on. It’s like some parts don’t burn, others sink in or I get bumpy ridged lines. So frustrating thx

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It's not just you Grisel. Bamboo is a very oddly structured wood that doesn't take well to burning. I'm not saying that it's impossible to burn but it is definitely more challenging. I would suggest other clear woods like maple or poplar for example. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for the kind words. It's appreciated.

[@petercrosswell4619]

Great tips

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you liked them Peter. Thanks for tuning in.

[@ericad4383]

Thanks for the awesome video, don’t know if anyone else has asked, which woods are the best to work with. I have read that some woods you have to be careful because they contain glue in them and can be very harmful when burning as the smoke will get inhaled. ~Erica

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It's never good to burn deep enough as to breathe in the smoke from glues that are burning in something like plywood. Truth be told though, if you are burning that deep, you might be doing something wrong. Also, an exhaust fan of some kind should be used to draw the smoke away from your face. As for the woods, it is pretty much unlimited. You can use any wood you like but I have found that lighter woods such as poplar and maple make good choices for burning in solid stock. If it is plywood that you are after, that is a good choice as well as it is pretty much flat and smooth. A good quality maple ply is excellent for pyrography projects and will serve you well. I hope this helps you out. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave your question and the kind words. It's truly appreciated.

[@kayjames190]

Left handlers are so creative 😊

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I will take that as a compliment Kay. Thank you very much. I hope you enjoy the series and that you will try your own burning one day. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@kayjames190]

Is a compliment...

[@barryroberts6470]

That was a very interesting video Kenny, so far the picture is looking good. You are a person of many Talents. Barry (ENG)

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words Barry. Only two more parts to go on this one and the picture will be done. I hope you enjoy the next two parts as well. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@aestheticallytreesing2730]

Awesome 👌🏻

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words on the show. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@DylansDIYWorkshop]

loved the video!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you enjoyed it. Thanks for tuning in.

[@rodhillis7792]

Just learning wood burning, and I have the Razer tip like yours. Where can I download the pattern you are using in your video of the water wheel old mill, so I can follow it step by step. Amazing clear and complete instructions

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

There is no download for this pattern Rod. It was in a book for pyrography. I have provided the link for the book in the video description. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@IlanDavid]

Nice tutorial. beard looks great btw!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

ha ha ha ha ha ha. Thanks for the kind words on the show and the beard. I truly appreciate that. Maybe you could tell my wife that my beard looks great. (she hates it). Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@zacharysherry2910]

That little fan is perfect for cutting onions 🧅 😂

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Actually, it probably would be. I cut onions on the stove top with the exhaust fan running and it works brilliantly so I don't see why this little fan wouldn't work. Thanks for tuning in.

[@dantee5814]

Thank you Kenny for an amazing tutorial. I am new to the hobby. May I ask which tip number you are using in this video? I assume it is a Razertip.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I use several tips for this project Dan. The are all Razertip pens and they are a large skew, a small skew, a large shader and a writing tip. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Ken, never tried this. Looks interesting and a different art form entirely. Looking forward to part two. Ever set off a smoke detector??

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Never set off the smoke detector Paul. There isn't enough smoke produced from the burning for that. You really should give this a try though. I think that you would enjoy it. Thanks for tuning in to the show this week. I hope that you will enjoy the series.

[@samara.morgan]

Beautiful :)

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thank you for the kind words on the show Samara. It's appreciated. Thank you for tuning in.

[@remotehog8787]

I was wondering what kind of fan are you using? Where did you get it. I have trouble with smoke going up my nose while I burn. Might smell good but after a couple of hours it makes me cough quite a bit. Been trying to figure out a fan system that will work in my small office. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you and btw You are a good teacher of Pyrography also. I did try a respirator but absolutely hated it. Blocked my view and just made me want to quit wood burning all together.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

At 3 minutes into the video, I explain what the fan is and where I obtained it. It is basically an old computer cooling fan that was removed from an old, outdated computer. I wired it to a normal household electrical cord and that was it. Instant pyrography fan. Thanks for the kind words and for tuning in to the show. I truly appreciate it. If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

[@thesultanmerchant]

plywood there are many varieties and which is the best plywood for burning to achieve minute detailing/

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It's not so much about the type of plywood but rather the method of burning. In general though, you want wood that is lighter in colour and has a clean, straight grain. Maple, poplar, birch are all great woods for this type of burning. To get more minute detailing, reduce your heat and your pressure and build your shades of burning up gradually. I hope this helps. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@thesultanmerchant]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks for responding.

[@willieboy8798]

test board ....another good idea ,...i would not thought of checking stroke or pressure. i do that in paint, pencil and ink! after watching this im spending the money and time to find a pyro burner that is right for me....i want the control! thanks bunches!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome. Good luck on your adventure. I'm glad that you enjoyed the show. Thanks for tuning in .

[@willieboy8798]

@@acutabove_woodworkings i mix media art ...ink, paint and pencils...I never thought about doing it with wood burning or aluminium foil!!! god help us all somebody being creative ....gotta stiffle the energy before i make something useful!!!lol

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@willieboy8798 I love the creative energy. I'd love to see your work. If you feel so inclined, you can send some pictures to the show's email address at [e-mail]

[@willieboy8798]

@@acutabove_woodworkings somebody gave me a broken tig welder ...it is old! i just figured a use for it ...cut the current and get the smallest tips i can find. use it to burn aluminum sheet woooow! baby thanks for the idea generation! baby..cool

[@willieboy8798]

@@acutabove_woodworkings the MIG welder idea works!!! but detail is going to take some work!!! i need to control the arc some how! cool

[@carloserosal708]

Nice video can you address the link to print the barn to practice,Carlos

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Unfortunately, I do not have distribution rights for this pattern and the only way to obtain it is to purchase the book which I have linked in the description of the video. Thanks for tuning in to the show

[@sarahbergman117]

Nice!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad you liked it. Thanks for tuning in.

[@amelitogaming3691]

What kind of wood do you use?tyndor tutorial.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I have used many types of wood to burn Amelito. Maple, poplar, pine, plywood. Any light coloured wood that has a clean, clear grain that will accent your work. For this particular project, I used 1/2" maple plywood and it worked perfectly. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave your question. It's very much appreciated.

[@kathygramlich9587]

Is there anyplace you can buy wood with a transfer already on it???

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I am currently not aware of any place that offers this Kathy. Although it's pretty easy to just trace a design onto the plywood. I'd be interested to hear if you find ready made stock with patterns pre-drawn. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave a comment.

[@davidwhitworth7470]

Great video. Are all nibs universal fittings

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The nibs or burning tips are usually specific to your burner David. My wood burning pens all have permanent tips on them that are not compatible with any other system so be careful what type of burner you choose. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@amwind1]

Love your work just bought the Razortip Sk. Would it be possible to get a copy of your photo. I would like to practice along with your tutorial

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

If you are referring to the pattern of the project that I made on this show, I am unable to send it Armstead. It is copyrighted material and I do not have the distribution rights. What I can do though is show you the book that I got it from. Here is the amazon link. www.amazon.ca/Big-Book-Pyrography-Projects-Techniques/dp/1565238885/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1?keywords=big+book+of+pyrography+projects&qid=1555727787&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmrnull I would also suggest checking your local library to see if they have it. I hope this has been helpful. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@amwind1]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thank you for replying

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@amwind1 You're welcome. I'm sorry I can't help you further on this.

[@lindamarsh6711]

I love it. I did pen and ink for years. This looks so much like it except for the colors. Is it expensive to do? Thanks for sharing.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Just like any hobby Linda, there is an initial output of funds. For a higher quality wood burner you are probably looking at a few hundred dollars to get started, assuming that you have no equipment at all. But wood burning can be achieved with the less adjustable, cheaper (soldering iron style) burners for less than $50. It's all a matter of how much you enjoy the hobby and how much you want to spend. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@shahan905]

How hard do you have to press on the wood with the pen?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

This is an excellent question. If you are just trying to burn and shade and that sort of thing, you don't want to put very much pressure at all on the pen. You want the nibs to glide over the wood and almost build up burning "layers" to accomplish different textures and shades. You want to be careful about pressing too hard, as this can dent the wood and cause a light area where the burner can no longer reach the wood fibres. Kind of a reverse embossing. You can use this to your advantage in some project is you wanted a highlight to not be affected by the burner but in general, it is very light pressure. Let the heat do the work, not the pressure of the pen. I hope this has helped you out and if you have any other questions, please don't hesitate. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave such an awesome question. I very much appreciate the support.

[@annakos3798]

Beautiful i have make a lot of them

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you liked it Anna. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@OldDunollieman]

Good instructional video Ken, you're mic. was echoing in dialogue. Cheers mate.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It's a different camera and it does have a tendency to echo slightly but it gave the best angle of the work. Hopefully, the lower sound quality (echo) wont take away from the content of the show. Thanks for tuning in and for the kind words on the program.

[@Invisible_Hermit]

Very informative and lots of great detail! This 57 year old grandpa is just starting out with pyrography, and I appreciate you taking the time and effort to make all this vital information available. Thank you. My only criticism is that some of the detail you're doing is difficult to see without being zoomed in. I'll try watching on a larger screen.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Mick. Good luck with your new adventure. The secret to getting good burns is to burn in layers and try not to burn really dark areas all in one shot. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@ShonaseaDanielle]

Can I lightly draw the project directly on the wood with a pencil ?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Of course you can. The method that I demonstrate on this show is only one of many different methods and there is absolutely nothing wrong with just drawing it out. I hope this helps. Good luck on your project and thank you for tuning in.

[@MultiTom1956]

Kenny , beautiful tutorial ! One question do we need to dig the pen in or just glide it 😊will appreciate your reply

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words. There's no need to dig the pen in unless that is the effect that you are looking for. Depending on the heat setting, the pen will dig in all on it's own and created the practice board will show you which heat settings will dig in and which will not. Just moderate pressure on the pen is fine. The heat will do the rest for you. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in.

[@AirbrushDGart]

Great video.. by the way your video is so sharp and clear what camera are u using and what program do you edit in.. Have a great day

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I use two separate cameras. One, is a Sony fdr-ax100 4K and the other is a GoPro Hero 5. This video was shot from overhead using pretty much the GoPro camera exclusively. Any shots of me sitting in the chair was filmed with the Sony camera. Both are very capable cameras with very capable features. For editing, I use Final Cut Pro X. I love this software and am quite often amazed by its capabilities. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave a comment. I truly appreciate it.

[@AirbrushDGart]

@@acutabove_woodworkings thanks for commenting, yes it was a Great help.

[@ithinkchannel3469]

Thank you for imagination sir...God Bless You

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I hope you enjoyed it. Thank you for tuning in.

[@ithinkchannel3469]

Yes Sir

[@EnlightenedFlamingo]

Hello, I'm very new to pyrography & have been watching a lot of videos to learn. This isn't a new video, so I don't know if you check notifications for it, but I do have a question. The desk I work on is a built-in with the sides & back against the walls. If I use my little fan to send the smoke towards one of the walls, will the get the paint grungy? It's newly painted, so I don't wanna already start getting it dirty looking. Should I just wipe the wall after I finish working each day? Or maybe just wear a filtered mask that works for smoke? Just wondering your thoughts & opinions. Also, with watching this video, I had to subscribe! - Amy

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Amy, the smoke from woodburning will not harm your newly painted walls. There is not a lot of smoke that is generated from pyrography and the purpose of the fan is to redirect it away from your face so that you are not breathing it in. A filtered mask might be a little bit of overkill but if it makes you feel better, than by all means, wear one. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in and welcome aboard. Glad to have you as a subscriber. I am producing another wood burning tutorial in the coming months. Good luck with your wood burning and if you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

[@EnlightenedFlamingo]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks so much for the info! I'll be sure to keep a look out for new pyrography vids!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@EnlightenedFlamingo You're very welcome.

[@derekober4928]

Where did you get the stencil... I typed in old country building stencils in Google to print out an image but I didnt find anything

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

There is no stencil for this Derek. If you check the videos description, you will find a link to the book which I got this pattern out of. The book has several nice patterns to work from. The instructions are a little lacking but the patterns are nice. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@derekober4928]

@@acutabove_woodworkings I found some on Google through a in depth search ... you make it look easy I may start off with some broader images ... how long have you been doing pyrography?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@derekober4928 I have been going pyrography for about 2 years Derek. The best advice I can give is to burn slowly. Don't try to make black lines in one session. Work up gradually to get the shade you want. Layering your shading will yield a much better result. It definitely takes practice.

[@jenn_jean_kent_artist]

Should you have basic drawing skill through graphite, BEFORE moving to pyrography? I have a nephew very interested, but he has no drawing skills yet, but he is a quick learning and in his 20's now.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Hello Jennifer. Thanks for contacting me. Basic drawing skills are not a requirement with wood burning. Any line drawing taken from the internet or a library book can be used and traced. The techniques of how to wood burn are learned through practice and the more your practice the better you get (obviously). Being able to detect shadows and highlights in a drawing or picture is an asset but again, it is not necessary. Even burning just the line drawing can be a challenge when it comes to getting clean, even burns and the end result of a line drawing burned in wood is extremely satisfying. If your nephew has an interest in pyrography, I say go for it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. If he ever has any questions, I would be more than happy to help out if I can. Thank you for tuning in. I hope I have answered your question. If not, feel free to ask as many questions as you like until you are satisfied with the answer.

[@jenn_jean_kent_artist]

kennyearrings1 Thank you so much!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome.

[@rkablj]

I'm thinking about buying this woodburner ...what's your thoughts?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

If you are referring to the Razertip system, it is a worthwhile investment. I say investment because they are fairly pricey and by the time you add the pens that you like, you are getting in to a fair amount of cash output. I actually have two Razertip burners and I love them both. I have the single pen unit and the double output unit and they are both fantastic. Extremely adjustable. Quick heating tips with consistent heat. Just an all around quality burner. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@joyceswain3014]

Wow did u get better at it by doing projects as a hobby or Ur really are that skilled, comes naturally? What kind of wood I should use. Are the wood treated or not🥺

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Practice will always make you better at something Joyce. I've been working with wood for a very long time but only work with wood burning from time to time. You can use whatever wood you like for wood burning. This project was burned on plywood but any, light coloured wood will do. The woods are untreated but can be sealed after you complete your burning. Poplar, maple, birch....even leather or gourds. Anything can be burned. Feel free to experiment with different materials to see how they react to wood burning. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in.

[@wickedcrypto6004]

So getting a different color pen matters. What about the brand of graphite paper?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Using a different colour of pen will make it easier to see what you have transferred and what you haven't. Instead of having to lift your design and the graphite paper up frequently to see what you missed, you can just look at the different coloured lines and see what you've done and what you haven't. As for the graphite paper, I don't have or use a specific brand. They are all pretty much the same. Here's a link if you are interested. www.leevalley.com/en-ca/shop/tools/supplies/project-materials/32818-graphite-tracing-paper?item=41K7501 I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

For straight lines can you use a metal ruler as a guide?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You definitely could do that Danny. I find that a lot of the heat is dissipated into the ruler when you do that though so you have to turn your heat up higher than you normally would to compensate. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks for the reply. Maybe something straight and hard that does not absorb heat well, like glass maybe. On the other hand maybe it is slight imperfections that make a drawing look good. I have yet to do my first burn of any significance, (still getting my stuff together, (tools books).

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@DannyB-cs9vx I think that you will find that having a perfectly straight line doesn't really suit a wood burning project. But there are definitely ways of doing it. Good luck with your first project. I hope you enjoy it

[@marystanley9457]

Howmdomyoummake you lines deeper witthout it becoming too different?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Do you mean making your lines deeper but not darker? If you want to do that, you can draw your lines first, using the wood burner but don't turn it on. Just use the burner cold until you get the depth of the line that you want. Once the lines are deep enough, you can warm up your burner and darken them as you wish. I hope this helps Mary. Thanks for tuning in.

[@rebeccamartinez9429]

i actually love the smell of wood burning when im done i like the smokiness on my face and hair

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I can't even argue with this Rebecca. I love that wood burning smell also. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate it

[@Angela12658]

I use a small fan to blow the smoke away from me.

[@angelad7164]

Good morning Iv wanted to start a new hobby and i looked at a few vlogs and come across urs May i say u r an amazing teacher so thank u 4 inspirering me may i ask some questions Whats the best tools to start off with to c if im.any good? I want my first project 2 b a tigers face do u no where i can get a free print to practice with? Do u no where i can find a u tube that shows how to make a work stand with a rotating stand which i can put at different heights to do my woodburning on? Can i use a covid mask if its safe 2 or do i need a proper mask? Great vlog and iv just liked ur vlog

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Let's see if I can answer your questions Angela. Any wood burner would be fine for a beginner. While the one I use here on the show is a much higher quality, it is also much more expensive than most beginner burners. You might want to start off with a soldering iron style first to see if you like the hobby before you decide to spend the extra money on a higher quality burner. If you google "tiger head colouring page" you will probably find plenty of pictures that you can trace on to wood to practice your wood burning of a tiger. I'm not sure about adjust the height, but I made a lazy Susan here on the show a while back that would demonstrate how to make one for rotating your project while working on it. If you search "lazy Susan" on the main page of my channel, you will find that show. You really don't need a mask of any kind as long as you vent the smoke away from your face. Any small fan to suck away the smoke will do. If you do not have a fan or any way to vent away the smoke, a COVID mask may not be quite enough to filter the smoke out. But a COVID mask is better than no mask. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in and for the kind words on the show. Good luck with your burning.

[@angelad7164]

​@@acutabove_woodworkings thanks 4 getting back to me Iv tried to look 4 the lady susan and i cant find it do u no when u put the vlog out please? Iv got covid masks as my sister going threw kemo and we have to b careful still so i can use the mask but as its freezing here i wont open doors but i can get kitchen door open and yes i have a small desk fan i can use do u think thats ok Have u done a tiger on wood that i can watch? Thanks 4 replying to me as iv got dyslexic and need all the help i can get Thanks again

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@angelad7164 The lazy Susan show is a two part series. You can find part one here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6K5d3puYtyHppo and you can find part two here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ7Kg3lsf9Nkp9k The small desk fan sounds perfect Angela. When you use it, just point it away from your work. The object is to have the fan suck the smoke away from you and blow it away from your work area. If you point the fan at your work, it will cool your wood burning iron and hinder your results. To answer your question, I have not done a video on wood burning a tiger. I hope this helps.

[@angelad7164]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks again 4 replying back to me i will b checking it out once iv done my work Iv liked and now im going to subscribe 2 ur vlog as u helped me and many dont even reply back when u ask questions Will u b doing a tiger to show us how im surpose to do it? Thanks again 4 ur great vlogs and help

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@angelad7164 I don't have a tiger planned for any upcoming shows but I may do one in the future.

[@zalleywaalley8227]

Wow, I’d have to wear earplugs just for that fan LOL

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Crazy loud Zalley. LOL. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@sandytyrel4104]

what is the best wood for a beginner

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Any tight grained, flat wood is perfect for a beginner in wood burning Sandy. Poplar, Maple, Plywood, Cherry. Any of these would be ideal. I hope this helps. Thank you for tuning in.

[@autumngrace8541]

Basswood too

[@sureshbabu5687]

So....................Awesome……. Thank you very much. 🙏🙏🙏

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You are very welcome. Glad that you liked it Suresh. Thank you very much for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave a comment.

[@abossansvideo-pv3om]

I just have a question, where did you find this picture?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The picture, among other patterns, was taken from a book called Big Book of Pyrography Projects. www.amazon.ca/Big-Book-Pyrography-Projects-Techniques/dp/1565238885/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=big+book+of+pyrography+projects&qid=1585219283&sr=8-1 I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in.

[@ltapyrography03]

👍

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad that you liked it. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@malcolmphillips2443]

Excellent video...Just a quick question....Why do you sound like Agent Smith from the Matrix? :)

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

LOL. I have no idea why you think I sound like that Malcolm. I have to say that I've been called a lot of things, but "Agent Smith" is definitely not one of them. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for the chuckle. It's appreciated.

[@kalaashalabygeetha]

Nice .. materials list n buying links plss

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I have to apologize for my late response to your comment. I honestly thought that the links were in the description but on further investigation, I discovered that they weren't . I have corrected the issue on all three parts of the series and I hope you find the links to be useful. Thanks for tuning in to the show and bringing the lack of information to my attention. I truly appreciate it.

[@natashadevita2547]

Is this your career? I’m wanting to start doing wood burning but everyone is telling me it doesn’t make much. How much on average does a pyrographer make? I want this as a career so bad, I got the tools and everything.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

This is most definitely not my career. I have no idea if I could even make a go at it as a full time gig. I have a full time job and the woodworking and wood burning and KZbin is just a little side hobby. I know that there is money to be made at it, but you have to be pretty good to make it marketable. Good luck with your adventure. I wish you all the luck in the world and I hope that you are able to make it work. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@mist4926]

that's ok use fan health first. try a sock over your mike it may cut the fan sound and still hear your voice. I cut the top off an old sock for my cell phone when im out in the wind and it works great. may be worth a try. I didn't use a fan and got really sick from the smoke. im sensitive

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The smoke doesn't bother me but I agree that you also shouldn't be exposed to it. I am thinking that for the next tutorial, I will keep the fan on and just over-dub the vocal track so that I get the best of both worlds. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave me a comment. I truly appreciate it.

[@mist4926]

@@acutabove_woodworkings love your work I would love to try this on a box I made

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@mist4926 No time like the present. Give it a try.

[@dodge2770]

Second pyro info channel I’ve seen that pronounces it “pie-ography “.... and I don’t get it... 🧐

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

And how would you pronounce it Joe? Thanks for tuning in.

[@jenniferford2067]

You should pronounce the “r” is what he’s saying. The phonetic spelling in the dictionary is pahy-rog-ruh-fee. It’s exactly what you’re saying only add the r between the “pie” sound and the “ography” sounds you’re making. Pyro is the root of the word and the r is pronounced.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@jenniferford2067 Thanks for the lesson. All these years I have been pronouncing it incorrectly and was unaware. Unfortunately, I think the damage is done and I honestly can never see me calling it anything but Pie-ography. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@jenniferford2067]

kennyearrings1 I’m fine with you pronouncing it any way you want. These are very well done videos and I appreciate the detailed approach to the project and explanation.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@jenniferford2067 I appreciate that. Thank you fro the kind words on the show and for tuning in. I have another tutorial planned for the very near future and I hope that you will be tuning in.

[@user-dn3ek4rq6z]

it turns out great.Come visit.I"m burning out too.I am interested in your opinion.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words. I checked out a couple of your videos. Very nice burning. Well done. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@marystanley9457]

i WANT MY LINES DEEPER BUT i NEED HELP KEEPING A STEADY HAND NOT TO GO TOO DEEP.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

It's important Mary, to always have your hand supported while burning. A light touch is all that is needed and the burner will do the rest. It is much better to make repeated passes with your burner than trying to do it all at once so try a lighter touch and multiple passes. As I said in my response to your other comment, you can always use a tool or your burner (turned off and cold) to get the depth of line that you want and then burn it afterwards. If your burner is just sinking into the stock and burning too black and too deep, you might want to turn the heat down. If your burner doesn't have heat control, burn on a scrap of wood first to dissipate the heat and then burn your artwork. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in.

[@biyawood4066]

I’m just a beginner. But it’s hard to see what is being burned, really. I would need a close up. I’m so serious.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I will keep that in mind for future wood burning episodes of the show. You can always try zooming in on this one. The resolution of the show was filmed in 4K so you should be able to zoom in quite a bit without any loss in picture quality. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in .

[@graybus]

I love pieography 🥧

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Me too. I just don't like it when my PIEography burns. :( Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@adamabraham7276]

If I become a Pyrographer, it will be because of this guy... Brilliant tutorial... The best on KZbin.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thank you for the kind words on the show Adam. I truly appreciate it. Thank you for tuning in.

[@PandaVilla4]

I got a cheaper wood burner kit and didn't test it before staring my projects, it took me 3 artworks to get the techniques right. So basically... I ruined 3 wood panels.......

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

They weren't ruined if you learned something from them. Flip them over and use them for practice boards for future projects. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave a comment. It's appreciated.

[@garybeasley4885]

There are certain brands of laser toner and particular solvents that can transfer the toner image directly to the wood. Micky Hudspeth I think it is who does chip carving told the woodworking club we were in all about it as he uses that technique for his work

[@garybeasley4885]

This video covers that pattern transfer process kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnbMgGyVbMRrbsU

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

There are many methods of transferring the pattern or the line drawing to your project Gary. I agree with you that toner from a laser printer works very well and I thank you for posting this method for others to see. I chose to use the graphite paper for this one as it would be available for anyone who wanted to try it at a reasonable cost. Thanks for chiming in with your comments and suggestions. I know that others will find it extremely useful. Thank you for tuning in to the show.

[@DrawingWithFire]

Please don't use the toner method for pyrography! For other projects where high heat is not being applied like carving, the toner technique would work very well. It is toxic to burn over the toner transfer. I have been in direct contact with printer companies and Canon responded that they absolutely did not recommend burning over the transfer because of the toxicity. Any process where chemicals are used to transfer should never be burned over.

[@letsgetto1millwithoutvids]

You don't need all this fancy ass expensive equipment

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're 100% correct on that. Wood burning can be done with a number of different, cheaper means. I'm just lucky that I have the equipment. Thanks for tuning in.

[@letsgetto1millwithoutvids]

@@acutabove_woodworkings you are very lucky I do this art but can only afford solid tip burners at this stage

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@letsgetto1millwithoutvids Solid tip burners work really well but I find that they just don't have the same versatility as the razor tip burner. My old solid tip burners had no way of controlling heat settings so it was all about the speed of the tip and the pressure applied to the burner, I hope one day, you will be able to get some of that "fancy ass" equipment. Although it isn't necessary, it doesn't make things so much easier.

[@letsgetto1millwithoutvids]

@@acutabove_woodworkings the modern solid tip burners do have some sort of heat setting that even then you are correct it's not the best heat control and doesn't work well you have to control the amount of burn with the speed that you use the tool and I use a pressure to make depth so it looks nice not to control heat though. Do you have any old wire burners that you would be willing to sell second-hand at a decent price but shipping to me might be expensive as I am in the UK But very nice video Also with solid Tip burners I cannot just start directly on the wood because of the way I feel like I might mess up as they are harder to control I imagine so I have to draw pencil Lines before I burn into the wood

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I do not have any old burners. They are all long gone and the wire tip burners that I have now are part of the current setup that I use. No matter what method you use, as long as you are enjoying what you do and enjoying the product that you are producing, then that is all that matters. Glad to have you aboard as a viewer. I will most likely be having another walk through wood burning coming in the next month or so. Hopefully, you will enjoy it when it finally gets produced.

[@goofy7591]

"pieography"

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Not sure what you were hoping to accomplish by your comment but I hope you succeeded. Thanks for tuning in.

[@1992ilikepie]

I don’t know what everyone is up to with the carbon paper. I use trace paper then stick the whole piece on my wood, and then just burn over the paper.. works totally fine and no stuff on the

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Just goes to show that there are plenty of ways to do things Katelynn. Thank you for chiming in with your method. I am positive that other viewers will find it useful. Thank you for tuning in to the show.