Chapter 1: Tools, Hints, and Tips
Pyrography as a Craft
You would probably struggle to find a craft with a more dramatic name than pyrography, which literally translates to “writing with fire.” No matter what surface you choose to work on creatively, the same principle and process applies, namely the application of heat to a surface to make a range of decorative marks. Irrespective of the origin of the name, this is not a craft for fireworks, explosions, and drama. Pyrography is a hobby that requires patience, skill, and a steady hand in order to master the techniques and become confidently proficient in your own ability.
Pyrography Machines
The most important decision you will make when starting out in pyrography is which machine to purchase. Pyrography equipment falls into two general categories: “solid point” or “hot wire” machines. In terms of price and flexibility, solid point machines are often regarded as entry-level kits, as they are cheaper and slightly less versatile than hot wire machines. Many budding crafters start with a less expensive kit in order to see if pyrography is the right craft for them, before moving onto a more advanced machine at a higher price once “bitten by the woodburning bug.” Pyrography machines are durable, reliable, and well built, as they are relatively simple tools, so they also hold their value well, which means you can often find secondhand kits for sale.
Solid Point Machines
The solid point machine resembles a traditional soldering iron in terms of physical appearance, with the name deriving from the solid brass nibs that it uses. These kits are usually chunky in terms of their physical structure, as the heating element is contained within the pen handle itself; this can make them a little trickier to hold or work with, particularly when trying to create finely detailed drawings or over longer periods of use. The nibs are available in a range of shapes and sizes to create different marks and often feature shaped nibs that can be used as decorative stamps. These machines generally have no more than two heat setting options at the most, with many only having a simple “on/off” switch and no further adjustability.
Hot Wire Machines
Hot wire machines are named after the finer metal nibs that they utilize. As these pen tips are formed from finely shaped wire forms, they can be used for detailed work much more readily than a solid point machine. Hot wire machines typically consist of a base unit with a power switch and an adjustable temperature setting so that the heat of the pen can be increased or decreased to suit the user’s needs. They have a separate pen that is attached by an electrical cord. Since the heating element is held within the base unit rather than the pen itself, the pens are usually smaller in size and, therefore, easier to hold and maneuver during use. Some manufacturers make “fixed” pens with a specific nib permanently fitted to its own handle, but most machines are also supplied with a pen with a range of different wire nibs that can be swapped as needed. These pens have a pair of holding posts at the tip with a screw mechanism or similar to secure the wire nibs in place and complete the circuit necessary to allow the heat to pass through.
The Pyrography Pen
As well as the type of pyrography machine that you elect to buy, it is also vital to consider your choice in terms of handling. Each unit (and most importantly the pen itself) has its own size, shape, and weight that must be kept in mind before you make a purchase. If you are going to be working on a design for a sustained period, the pen must be easy for you to hold in a comfortable yet relaxed grip. A pen that is too heavy or too awkward for you to hold will not be easy or enjoyable to work with, resulting in poor finished results and, ultimately, a lack of pleasure in what you are doing. If you can do so, visit a crafts supplier where you can handle a range of different machines first before spending your hard-earned money; you will not regret it in the long run!
I strongly believe that holding a pyrography pen should be as comfortable as holding a regular pen or pencil. You should be able to hold the pen in a natural, relaxed grip without any effort or strain. Most pyrography pens are designed to protect the user from any excess heat through insulated grip sections or guards to keep stray fingertips away from the business end; you must, therefore, bear this in mind when using the pen. Ultimately the pyrography pen needs more care and consideration than normal writing implements when it is being used due to the added risk of the generated heat.
General Safety Tips
Always take care with the nib of a pyrography pen. Metal can retain a residual heat for a long period of time even after the machine has been switched off. It is often easy to tell when nibs are hot while in operation, but you must be mindful to allow enough time for them to cool after use before you handle them again. If in doubt, use a pair of pliers to move them or test the nib against a piece of paper to see if it is still hot enough to make a burn mark on the surface. This is particularly important if you are planning on changing nibs regularly during a crafting session.
Make sure that your pen is secure when you place it down between uses. Some pyrography kits have a hook or holder on the side of the machine for this purpose; you can also get free-standing pen holders for some brands that allow you to rest it safely in place between sessions. For maximum safety, it is always best to turn the machine off when not in use, since it is easy for a pen to be accidently touched or to catch the cord on something.
Ventilation is also an important consideration when working, particularly when doing so for longer periods of time. Smoke and fumes can be harmful if inhaled, so consider using a mask and goggles
if you feel this is necessary; this may be especially beneficial if you are doing large areas of sustained heavy shading or similar. There are specialty extractor fan units available in the market that are targeted specifically for use by pyrographers. Alternatively, a small desk fan or something similar can assist in achieving the same result. Point the fan away from your work so that the smoke is drawn away from you as you burn. If the fan is used facing your working area, the breeze will cool the nib and may make it harder or slower for you as you try to create your design.
Keep your workspace tidy and free of clutter to reduce the chance of any accidents or problems. A protective heat-resistant mat is essential for protecting your table or desk; pieces of scrap wood, hardboard, or thick cardboard can be used as a low-cost alternative solution. Dispose of litter or waste from your workspace promptly, and ensure that you do not store any hazardous chemicals or substances near the area where your pyrography machine will be in use.
Take care to maintain your pyrography equipment during and between each use. Ensure that you take regular breaks when working for longer