How to Burn Wood Evenly for Science Projects

Woodburning tools make a science project look nice

Wood burning is known as pyrography, which means the "art of burning wood." Wood burning is a good method to use when dressing up a science project or a rustic wooden sign. To get a uniform look, use the right accessories and methods. Practice your wood burning technique on a spare piece of wood before tackling your project. A practice board will allow you test new tips on various pieces of wood, helping you choose which is right for your project.

Things You'll Need

• Facemask
• Pyrography pen
• Flat pen tip
• Practice board

Instructions

1. Assemble the pyrography pen and attach a flat wide pen tip. Heat up the pen at your workspace.

2. Grasp the tool by the handle. Never grab the pen by the heated tip. Hold the tool loosely to avoid hand cramps.

3. Make a few tentative strokes on your practice board. Adjust the temperature of the pen to get the depth of color you want.

4. Draw slowly with the pen, moving it towards you. Let your wrist rest on the wood as your hand slides towards you. The pen tip should lie with the flattest part on the wood.

5. Move the pen in even strokes from top to bottom. Get darker shades in large areas by burning the area twice. Burn the surface once then come back and burn it again.

Tips & Warnings

• Children should not operate wood burning equipment unsupervised.

• Practice wood burning in a well-ventilated area. Fumes from burning can harm you.

References

• The Wood Box: 10 Wood Burning Tips