Pyrography - the art of woodburning
Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise.
Ephesians 5:15
The first thing you learn when creating a piece of artwork using pyrography (wood burning) is the importance of demonstrating safe and proper procedures while using the tools and equipment. It is important for you to BE CAREFUL, to take your time and follow the rules during this project. "Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise (Ephesians 5:15)."
Objectives:
In this lesson you will:
- learn about the artwork of Julie Bender and David Kreider
- be exposed to pyrography and new techniques
- explore and express your individual style through woodburning
Materials:
paper; pencils; carbon paper; sandpaper; wood; wood burning equipment, including wands, tips, pliers, large tiles, extension cords
Process:
Check out this video about artist Julie Bender. Then look at her website and David Kreider's website.
- What do you like/dislike about their work? How is their art work alike? Different?
- Where do they find inspiration for their artwork?
- Julie Bender describes her art as monochrome? What do you think that means?
- Julie Bender says she works slowly, gradually, lightly, and carefully. Why do you think this is important with pyrography?
The following video is made by Walnut Hollow, the company that makes the wood burning tools we use. It explains how to use the burners and how the different tips work.
- practice using the wood burners on the practice wood; take time to try out the different tips
- research/sketch out ideas and choose your best 3 ideas
- break into groups and share your sketches & ideas, critique each others ideas
- create a drawing of your best idea to transfer onto wood
- prepare wood by sanding (remember to sand with the grain of the wood)
- transfer your drawing onto wood
- develop your picture on wood using the wood burning equipment
Pyrography Rubric
Standards:
- VA:Cr1.1
- VA:Cr1.2
- VA:Cr2.1
- VA:Cr2.2
- VA:Re9.1