T H E   P R O C E S S

Choose something special to burn; both the article (furniture, box, wooden canvas) and the subject (the sky’s the limit!)

​

• I prefer to burn on clear maple, alder or basswood, chosen for their strength, light tone and even grain density. They allow for a wonderful balance of longevity, striking contrast and ability to achieve incredible detail and richness of color.

​

• Regardless what the article is, it must be completely unfinished. I am, unfortunately, unable to burn anything that has EVER had a finish on. No matter how much you strip and sand, the chemicals have permeated the wood and heating it gives off toxic fumes.

​

• What you choose for the design is as vast as our imaginations combined—share your vision with me, and let me run with it. I promise not to disappoint!

​

• Once we make those decisions, I present you with a sketch, and upon your approval, transfer the sketch to the prepared wood.

​

• The outlines are then burned and color is added, using acrylics that have been thinned to the point that they stain the wood rather than sitting on top of it. Wash after wash is applied until the desired richness and tones have been accomplished.

The final step is to burn in the shading, giving shape, depth of field, and texture to the wood, bringing it to life!