Keep your pyrography safe and fun with these top 5 wood-burning safety tips.
In the world of pyrography, there’s nothing that screams “FUN!” quite like – you guessed it – SAFETY!
While wood-burning safety may not be the most thrilling aspect of pyro crafts, it is certainly the most crucial. After all, your safety should be your number one priority when handling any tool or craft!
Here are five safety tips to keep tucked away any time you pick up your wood-burning pen.
1. Preparation is Protection!
An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of protection when it comes to using a wood-burning pen.
Many people who begin burning wood are tempted to jump right into the craft. However, it’s important that you take the necessary precautions before dragging out your tools. Have all of your materials at hand and read through any accompanying instructions/material warnings!
Every wood-burning pen and kit will come with safety instructions and a manual that you should read through before beginning any project.
Also, keep your working area clear of any potential obstructions and flammable objects. For even better protection, keep your fire extinguisher nearby and know exactly how to use it should the unexpected happen!
2. Use Your Finger Gloves
When woodburning, always (I repeat – always!) wear your finger gloves. Finger gloves will protect you from any hot surfaces, burning sensations, and even a certain degree of heat insulation.
You can use finger gloves or a full glove depending on your preference. The goal is to ensure that you are insulated and protected from the heat.
For the added peace of mind, consider using finger gloves along with a holder to hold your woodburning pen.
3. Have a Smoke Strategy
Where there’s fire, there’s smoke. When you are working with intricate designs in pyrography, you will want to make sure you have a system to direct smoke away from your workspace.
You can use a fan to move smoke away from your workspace – just make sure that you keep a window open to direct the smoke outside. There are fans for both on-table and window use while burning.
There are also ways that you can use tubing or piping to collect the smoke as it is generated and move it safely away from your space and out the window!
No matter what method you choose, just make sure you’ve thought through what to do as the smoke begins to rise.
wood-burning safety
4. Invest in a Respirator
Even if you have a great smoke strategy, there will still be smoke generated near your face as you work. The closer you are to the surface you are burning, the more likely it is that you will breathe in particulate matter.
A dust mask or respirator is an easy way to protect your lungs from the smoke that you are breathing in. You should still make sure that there is adequate ventilation to direct the smoke outside of your workspace, but using a high-quality respirator and vapor filters definitely help to ensure your lungs stay protected.
While you are at it – add a pair of goggles!
5. Burn on Safe Wood Materials
One wood-burning safety step that many new pyrographers skip is researching the kinds of wood they are burning onto. It is essential that you take the time to research the type of wood, and if necessary – the adhesive you’re using to make sure it is one that will not emit harmful fumes.
Certain types of wood are forgiving enough for even a novice pyrographer. Some of the top woods to consider using are basswood, poplar, and birch.
Find the best woods for wood burning.
There are many wood types that can give off dangerous toxins or irritants as they burn. Do your research, and avoid burning on wood that you don’t know the history or quality of.
Regardless of the type of wood you may have at your disposal, use your respirator and goggles to increase your safety. There are so many types of wood out there to choose from – don’t take a risk on questionable material.
The Key to Successful Wood-Burning? Safety First!
Woodburning has long been seen as a technique that’s reserved for more experienced artists because it can be so dangerous. However, there are ways to enjoy this craft while still feeling safe and secure in the process!
When you invest in quality materials, keep your workshop clear of any dangerous obstructions and take the necessary precautions – pyrography can be a safe and fun art to practice.
FREE PYRO PACK
This FREE (and highly detailed) digital packet is overflowing with information for getting started in pyrography.
- 14 tools supply list – the best tools in pyrography
- 5 pyrography patterns to use in burning
- 2 step-by-step pyro projects with templates
I put together a digital download packet that highlights wood burning tools and projects perfect for pyro beginners.
“what burner should I use?”
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