Pyrography, Ornamentation and Experimentation with Texturing (POETs) SIG
Pyrography is the art of decorating wood by burning, usually through the controlled application of a heated object such as a poker - hence the more traditional name of "pokerwork". Pyrography means "writing with fire", and the modern form of this traditional art uses a heated tip or wire to burn or scorch designs onto natural materials such as wood or leather. Perhaps more related to art than normal woodcraft, pyrography requires a steady hand, good hand/eye coordination, and above all the ability to 'see' how decoration could enhance a common everyday object. In the Guild, it is frequently used collaboratively to ornament woodcraft produced by turning, box-making or cabinetry.
Burning can be done by means of a modern solid-point tool (similar to a soldering iron), or a hot-wire tool, or by more basic methods using metal implements heated in a fire, or even by sunlight concentrated by a magnifying lens. This allows a wide range of natural tones and shades to be achieved - beautifully subtle effects can create a picture in sepia tones, or strong dark strokes can make a bold, dramatic design. Varying the type of tip used, the temperature, or the way the iron is applied to the material, all create different effects. Solid-point machines offer a variety of tip shapes, and can also be used for "branding" the wood or leather. Wire-point machines allow the artist to shape the wire into a variety of configurations, to achieve broad marks or fine lines. This work is time-consuming, done entirely by hand, with each line of a complex design drawn individually. After the design is burned in, wooden objects are often coloured, sometimes boldly or more delicately tinted.
The Guild owns five pyrography pen kits that are available to all members. It also has a substantial supply of both common and exotic timbers suitable for pyrography and ornamentation.
The POETs SIG meets at the SIG co-ordinator's home on the first Saturday of the month at 1400.