Books are the greatest source of information and inspiration. There are several books on pyrography and wood-burning projects, which include a wide range of patterns and techniques from which you can take inspiration. In the following list, I have mentioned about 11 such books.
Which is the Best Book on Wood burning?
Big Book of Pyrography is the best book that caters to all skill levels. I can this from my own research and asking a number of people who are pyrographers of different skill levels.
There were a total of three parameters to come up with the list of 11 products. All products recommended in the list had to score above 7 on a scale of 0-10 on the below parameters, and only the ones that passed the score test were recommended.
Clarity of concepts: It is important that whoever reads the book is able to grasp the context with utmost ease and not get tangled in jargons.
Experience of author: Someone who has had some hands on experience with wood burning is at a better position to guide the reader with tips and learnings.
Skill level: I chose books across all skill levels since it’s important to ensure everyone from beginner to advanced level is able to learn and apply the teachings.
Best Books on Wood burning
Big Book of pyrography
- Written by Editors of Pyro Mag
- 23 Projects
- Gallery of designs
yearn to burn
- Written by Simon Easton
- 18 Projects
- Illustrative guide
Skill level: Beginner-level wood burner
Scorecard
If you are a beginner at pyrography, wanting to start a project for practice but are not sure where to start and in search of simple pyrography projects to which you can refer, the Learn to Burn by Simon Easton can guide you with basic wood burning concepts and techniques, which are essential for developing and enhancing your individual style. It also guides you through purchasing the necessary tools which are essentially and materials.
The author of the book, Simon Easton, has a BA (Hons) degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, where he studied woodturning, silversmithing and pewterware.
In his book, he takes you through the process of getting started by explaining the anatomy of the pyrography kit, the proper way of holding the pen and wood selection.
This book contains several beginner-friendly step-by-step pyrography and wood-burning projects from which you can learn how to create intricate designs and patterns.There are 14 step-by-step projects for making decorative items like photo frames, coasters, etc. All the projects come with step-by-step instructions, concise captions and clear how-to photographs so that it is easy to follow.
The project uses easily available materials. The author has also mentioned creating different types of texture on the wood surface following different pyrography techniques. It also contains 50 bonus patterns which can be used with techniques you have already learnt.
My Opinion
In my opinion if you have children at home and wish to get them introduced to wood burning art, this is the book for you. I feel the 14 step by step projects are the USP of this book because it gives one a hint of how much you can do when it comes to burning patterns.
Product Timeline
There was just a single version of the book released in 2013 and there has been no iteration since then.
Skill level: Beginner-level wood burner
Scorecard
Little Book of Pyrography by Lora Irish is highly recommended for anyone who is thinking about getting into pyrography or is new at it. This book is mainly geared towards an amateur, given the basic nature of the information.
It is a beginner-friendly pyrography book which incorporates all the important features necessary for mastering basic pyrography techniques and can be a great addition to your pyrography book collection.
Lora Irish, the author of the book, is a legendary pyrography artist. In her Little Book of Pyrography, she coherently expands on the techniques and projects from her bestseller, Pyrography Basics, which are also incorporated in this book. In this beginner’s guide to the art of pyrography, the author has provided a thorough introduction to the basic materials, inexpensive woodburning tools and skills required.
This book contains seven skill-building projects, which provide step-by-step exercises for using temperature, layering and texturing with proper instructions. You can explore around texturing and layering for creating artistic tones and textures.
This book will also teach you the proper way to set up a practice board to exercise different types of strokes and settings. The practice board will help you to gain confidence for working on bigger projects. Therefore, with a little Book of Pyrography, you can master everything from shading to composition.
My Opinion
I think there is no better book that does a good job of putting beautiful illustrations and instructions in a pocket sized book which is definitely something I shall be gifting to my near and dear ones this holiday season.
Product Timeline
Originally published in 2018, this is still a standalone edition and there has not been any iteration so far.
Skill levels: Beginner and Advanced wood burner
Scorecard
The Big Book of Pyrography Projects by the editors of pyrography magazine is a must-have for any pyrography enthusiast.
If you are one who wants to take up the creative art of pyrography but wondering where to start, this book can be just the option for you. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced pyrography artist, you will evidently find new and creative ideas to add to your work in this book.
This book features a surfeit of various pyrography projects, the completion of which will hone your skills. It also features amazing pyrography tips and tricks, which will facilitate faster and better working. The book mainly focuses on wood and provides:
- Guidance regarding what wood-burning system should be chosen.
- Creating carving patterns of different kinds.
- Make practice boards and tips for keeping your wood burner clean.
Big Book of Pyrography encompasses 23 all-time favorite projects of leading pyrography artists and authors, which allows its readers to follow along the process of creating such projects on their own through the step-by-step instructions given. It also includes an inspirational gallery of extraordinary pyrography pieces ranging from portraits to birdhouses, curated by international artists’ editors, which will stir your imagination and flare your creativity.
My Opinion
This edition of books comes from a prestigious group called the “editors of pyrography”. When I read the book and had interactions with other intermediate and advanced artists who do wood burning. All of them agreed to my view that there are several hacks and tips that one can only know once they read a big book on pyrography. This book may not be for absolute beginners.
Product Timeline
Published by Fox chapel published in 2016, yet to see a revised version from the editors.
Scorecard
When you have readily mastered the basic techniques of pyrography and want to take your wood-burning skills to the next level, Simon Easton’s Year to burn can assist you with it. In his book Year to Burn, Simon Easton expands on its forerunner, Learn to Burn, by incorporating more advanced pyrography techniques.
Yearn to Burn features 18 themed projects designed to sharpen your wood-burning skills so that you can create a series of intricate designs on home decor, household items, decor items etc. The eighteen projects present in the book have comprehensible instructions and step-by-step photographs on how to complete these projects.
In addition to this, it also mentions useful techniques which can be implemented while working on these projects for easy completion of the projects. Therefore, if you are an experienced pyrography artist who wants to refine his pyrography skills at advanced-level wood-burning projects, this will be a great read for you. It can serve as both a reference book and a source of inspiration for creating intricate pyrography pieces.
My Opinion
If I was talking to an advanced wood burning person, this is the kind of book that would come up in the discussion. This is another great book that’s only recommended for advanced pyrographers. The clarity of instructions in the book is super easy to understand and there are enough exercises to hone your skills inside the book.
Product Timeline
Simon Easton released the first print “Learn to Burn” in 2013 and the book here “Year to Burn” is a sequel to the original book. “Year to burn” was published in the year 2019 and has not been refreshed as of yet.
Skill levels: Beginner-level wood burner
Scorecard
The Wood Burn Book by Rachel Strauss is an aesthetically pleasing book about the art of pyrography. If you are a relatively new pyrography artist who is always looking for new creative styles that can be added to your wood-burning projects, this book won’t disappoint you.
Despite being an amateur or a proficient pyrography artist, you are bound to find new information. In this book, the author has explained everything one needs to know about wood burning art. This book is primarily about wood burning and covers everything from types of wood[1] that can be used and materials that you will need to the required tools that will assist you in completing the job.
It starts with information on safety measures that should be taken and then goes over to equipment and materials necessary. The book also mentions diverse ways you can add color and finishes to your project and about different materials on which pyrography can be done besides wood.
The second half of this book includes a detailed explanation of various creative ideas with easy-to-follow instructions and steps, as well as pictures of the steps to fortify the explanation. It also consists of tips and tricks from other artists. The book is well structured complete woodburning resource, and anyone with basic English knowledge will be able to understand.
My Product
I’ve personally taken a course by the author Rachel so I know she is an excellent teacher and has a unique way to break down complex topics into layman terms. I think this book is for beginners or someone who just wants to have a taste of what it is like to wood burn.
Product Timeline
The first version of the book was published by Rachel Strauss in the year 2020 and there is yet to be any iteration.
Skill level: Advanced level wood burner
Scorecard
Once you have become proficient in the basic wood-burning techniques, you can move on to adding some more detail to your wood-burning projects. Creating landscape designs on your wood-burning projects can be a great way of adding depth to your project. If you’re in search of a perfect guidebook which will assist you in landscape pyrography, Landscape Pyrography Techniques & Projects by Lora Irish[2] can be of great help.
This book mainly focuses on landscape designs and patterns. The author, Lora Irish, is a nationally recognised pyrography artist who, in this book, reveals her easy-to-follow procedure for working in layers to achieve stunning results. In the book, you will get to learn about how to create dramatic depth in any landscape or scenery by using contrasting tones.
The book includes four skill-building projects and a step-by-step capstone project for a rustic Advertising Barn that provides practice in layering, temperature, effects and texturing.
In this book, Lora gives a thorough introduction to different aspects of burning and small practice carving patterns so that you can apply all the techniques. Lora has also given her expert advice on basic supplies, tools and techniques that are important.
One of the best features of this book is its ready-to-use patterns with finished examples. Even though this book is for beginners, pertaining to the title, the book will be more suitable for people who have prior experience in pyrography.
My Opinion
In my opinion, if i was to choose a book for the most beautiful illustration then i would choose Landscape pyrography. You can be a beginner picking up this book. What amazed me the most is clearly laid down instructions on how one can get complex designs by just following simple steps. The USP of the book is that most illustrations have been inspired by lifelike scenes making it fun to go through.
Product Timeline
The edition was first released in 2018 and has not seen any revision since.
Skill level: Beginner and advanced wood burner
Scorecard
Pyrography literally means to write with fire. Drawing with Fire by Aney Carver[3] is an excellent option for anyone searching for a guidebook for adopting pyrography as a hobby or who loves to craft their own home decor and gifts. In this book, the founder of Pyrocrafters shows its reader how easy this magnificent craft is.
In her book Drawing with Fire, Andy Carver has shown how versatile and relaxing wood burning can be. She has created an excellent introduction, which is easy to understand and packed with useful information. The book encompasses everything from safety measures to skill-building projects with easy-to-follow instructions. Many of the projects feature lettered designs, providing fresh inspiration for hand-lettering artists.
Drawing with Fire consists of 25 easy-to-follow skill-building projects that will help you kick crafting up a notch with stunning handmade wood burning. The author has shared her expert tips and tutorials to ensure beginners can get amazing results on their very first try. Each project provides a referable design template, step-by-step photos and an explanation of essential techniques like outlining and shading. It is a great resource for both amateur and experienced pyrography artists.
My Opinion
In my opinion, this is the kind of book I would opt for anyone who wishes to do it big in the world of calligraphy that’s focused towards wood burning. Most of the examples given in the book are inspired by words and portraits where you will draw a lot of letters. I felt it caters to a very specific set of pyrographers who wish to draw letters on wood.
Product Timeline
The first version of the book was released in May of 2020 and there is yet to be a revised version.
Skill level: Beginner and Advanced level wood burner
Scorecard
Pyrography, which means to write with fire, or wood burning, is a versatile art form. If you have an interest for art and craft and are thinking of starting with pyrography, Creative Woodburning by Bee Locke can help you get started with this art form. In this book, the author has shared her knowledge and passion for this art form.
Bee Locke[4], the author, is a self-taught pyrography artist with ten years of experience and a thriving creative woodburning business based out of her home studio in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The book begins with an introduction that covers tools and supplies and explains everything from materials selection to sourcing and preparing, linework, shading, stippling, etc. The book contains 20 projects, the completion of which will hone your skills.
All the projects contain step-by-step instructions, finished project pictures, easy-to-follow process photographs and difficulty ratings. Expert tips and advice are also included, which are highlighted in text bars to help avoid any issues and achieve the best results. It also includes more than 180 design template which is easy to follow
My Opinion
I wasn’t very impressed by the book since the ideas talked about in the book are way too complex when it comes to implementing. I wish the author Bee could have had a mix of simple to advance ideas. I feel this should appeal to someone who is at an intermediate level and wishes to add some complex projects to their portfolio.
Product Timeline
The first version of the book was released in August of 2020 and there is yet to be a revised version.
Skill level: Beginner and Advanced level wood burner
Scorecard
Pyrography can be intimidating at times if one is not guided correctly. If you are someone who what’s to start pyrography or you are a pyrography artist who has the basic idea and wants to hone your skills at wood burning, then the Pyrography workbook by Sue Walters[5] is great for understanding the basics of wood burning and then taking those skills to an advanced level.
The author, Sue Walters, is a self-taught, renowned Australian pyrographer. In her book Pyrography Workbook, she inspires and gives practical information regarding the artistic potential of pyrography.
Despite being a beginner or a professional pyrography artist, Ms. Walters’s engaging writing style will eliminate any doubt you have concerning pyrography.
This book covers everything from safety information and equipment selection to techniques and methods for burning.
This book contains three step-by-step skill-building projects and discusses in detail equipment and material selection for burning and how to prepare a wooden surface before burning. It has a wide range of original patterns to select from for future burning. The book also mentions ways for adding colors and different finishes to your work and other materials on which pyrography can be done. A detailed explanation of numerous techniques, such as negative, solar, and engraving, with pictures, is also given for better understanding.
My Opinion
In my experience of reading books over pyrography, this is the ultimate book that I loved reading and have got so much help from. What makes this book so special is that it talks about beginner patterns, different project types and illustrated instructions in a simple, clear manner. You could be at any skill level and will be able to easily grasp the instructions.
Product Timeline
The first version to ever release was in the year 2005. There has been no updated version so far.
Skill level: Beginner-level wood burner
Scorecard
If pyrography interests you, Wood burning Projects and Patterns is the ultimate guide for a beginner in pyrography. Penned by Minisa Robinson[6], this book encompasses a complete overview of wood burning. It includes information regarding necessary tools and supplies and safety precautions that should be taken, assisting you in mastering the basics.
Minisa Robinson, the author of the book, is a highly talented pyrography artist who has contributed to Woodcarving Illustrated and Pyrography Magazine. In the first half of this book, she shares her expert advice about temperature, wood types, fixing mistakes and techniques such as burning even lines, stippling and shading.
Once the basics are clear, one can move on to doing the projects. The book has 17 step-by-step projects on a variety of items ranging from items like pendants, and signs to frames, ornaments, etc. The projects are easy-to-follow with beginner-friendly instructions and crisp coordinating photography. The difficulty level of these projects increases gradually. The book provides:
- Troubleshooting help.
- Ways to avoid and fix mistakes.
- Advice about sealing and finishing your projects.
The book will help you to develop all skills to be successful in pyrography.
My Opinion
From what I feel, this book has been designed keeping beginners in mind. I as an advanced pyrography guy wouldn’t find much of a value when reading the book but for someone just getting out there and trying to learn, it can be a great book. I feel what sets the book apart is the fact that you can have widespread details on things like tools required, templates and even troubleshooting.
Product Timeline
The first version came out in July of 2020. There has been no revision since then.
Skill level: Advanced level wood burner
Scorecard
For Pyrography artists, who love animals and want to add realistic animal portraits to their projects, Wood burning Realistic Animals by Minisa Robinson can assist you in creat better portraits. In this book, Minisa Robinson challenges her readers to expand their imagination and ideas of wood burning by following her techniques for creating highly realistic art
The author has covered all the wood-burning basics, starting from important tools and supplies and surface preparation to protecting and sealing the end of a finished product. She also mentions temperature control, shading, carbon clean-up, and black background. An elegant gallery of finished work is present to spark your creativity. The book contains essential skill-building tutorials for creating realistic eyes, short fur, long fur, manes, and whiskers.
The book contains 12 step-by-step projects for North American and African wildlife, including a Zebra, Moose, bobcat and more. Each project includes photo references, hand-drawn patterns and step-by-step instructions, from big cats and bunnies to owls and elk. Tips regarding working on photos, converting photos to carving patterns and transferring them to wood and ways for creating wood-burning feathers are also included. Step-by-step suggestions for adding a splash of colors are also mentioned.
My Opinion
From my experience, the book caters to an intermediate wood burning audience who wishes to get going with a select few ideas like eyes, horse and other similar figures. I wouldn’t recommend this to absolute beginners but if you are someone who wishes to just hone a specific style of figures like the one given in the book then you can definitely go ahead.
Product Timeline
The earliest version was released in July of 2019 and there is yet to be a revised version.
User’s Guide
When it comes to choosing a book, there are a few things you should see before choosing the best book to begin with. Here are some parameters for you to help:
Skill Level required to understand: If you are just starting then you should only buy the book that caters to beginner level and similarly for intermediate level and advanced level. Your current skill level matters a lot. Just because you are excited or a book illustration looks cool, don’t make the mistake of just buying for the sake of buying. Buy as your current skill set.
Concepts covered in Index: When it comes to basic fundamentals, it becomes important to understand and figure out the concepts covered in a book. You can check the index of any book in the amazon listing. You need to see if the book just covered exercises or also has a section where they talk about tips, fundamentals and troubleshooting. Ideally opt for a book that covers the concepts and also has some practice exercises.
Background and Experience of author: Wood burning requires hands-on experience to be able to spit out anything. If the author isn’t aware of fundamentals or has never done wood burning before then it will get difficult for us to learn by anything that they say. Ideally I wish to learn from someone who is an experienced pyrographer or has had 10+ years of experience teaching the topic.
Verdict
A wrong book can do more harm than good. I’ve learned it the hard way and that’s why I choose my books after a lot of research. Make sure to go through reviews online and also ask fellow students on different forums about their experience of a certain book or a topic. Make an informed decision since a good book can ignite passion inside you. I would recommend you go for the pyrography workbook.
Summary
There is a wide range of pyrography books available in the market. One can get confused about what book they should choose. If you are a pyrography artist and want to add some insightful and useful books on pyrography to your library, the six books mentioned above can be very good options to choose from, depending upon your level of experience.
References
Andrea. (2022). Types of Wood – What Works with Pyrography. TRUArt®. https://truart.co/2020/09/01/truart-pyrography-wood-types/
About the artist. (n.d.). LSIrish.com. https://lsirish.com/studio/
Aney Carver. (n.d.). https://aneycarver.com/
BeeSymmetry Designs. (n.d.). BeeSymmetry Designs. https://beesymmetry.com/
Sue Walters Pyrography. Australian Razertip pyrography dealer. (n.d.). Sue Walters Pyrography. https://suewalters.com/
HOME | Minisa Robinson. (n.d.). Minisa Robinson. https://www.minisapyrography.com/
