The Wood Burn Book is your ultimate beginner-to-intermediate guide to the art of pyrography—also known as wood burning—written by Rachel Strauss of @woodburncorner. Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your technique, this accessible, comprehensive handbook will have you confidently “writing with fire” in no time.

Strauss begins with the basics: a brief history of pyrography, essential tools and materials, safety tips, and fundamental techniques you’ll return to again and again. From there, she walks you through the creative process step by step—from choosing your surface to finishing your final piece—with clear instructions, patterns, and guidance on lettering, shading, and adding color.

Featuring dozens of beautiful, gift-worthy projects—from cutting boards and coasters to picture frames, wooden spoons, and personalized jewelry—The Wood Burn Book makes it easy to create meaningful, handmade pieces for weddings, baby showers, holidays, and everyday moments.

More than a craft guide, this is the book Rachel wishes she had when she began—a welcoming, confidence-building companion that proves if you can trace a line, you can learn to burn. As you build your skills, you’ll also discover the meditative power of wood burning: a calming, creative practice that rewards patience, focus, and intention.

Inside you’ll find:

• A complete introduction to tools, surfaces, and safety for pyrography beginners
• Step-by-step techniques for tracing, shading, lettering, and adding color
• Tips for choosing and preparing the best wood for your project
• 25+ modern, customizable projects for gifting and home décor
• Downloadable patterns and guidance on how to create your own designs
• Practical advice for finishing, sealing, and preserving your work
• Inspiration for using wood burning as a mindful, creative outlet

Rachel Strauss is the hands, heart, and mind behind Wood Burn Corner. Rachel found wood burning in 2011 while browsing her local craft store for DIY wedding décor. Its relaxing qualities and beautiful finished look had Rachel hooked. On Instagram (@woodburncorner) she hosts challenges to help wood burning artists from around the globe expand their skills, try new things, and connect with their fellow pyrographers. She started Burn Club, a place for wood burning artists of all skill levels to gather, share, learn, and grow together. Her artwork can be found on the packaging of the Walnut Hollow Creative Woodburner. Rachel is a featured teacher on Skillshare for her wood burning classes, and her work has graced the official Instagram feeds of Etsy, Joann, Craftsposure, and many others. She has also presented at both Altitude Summit and Pinners conferences. Wood Burn Corner reflects her love of creating, collaborating, supporting the wood burning community, teaching, and giving back. Rachel chooses to use wood from sustainable sources and donates to organizations that plant trees around the globe. She lives in Fremont, California. 

Introduction
Safety
 
PART I:TOOLS & TECHNIQUES
Essential Tools
Choosing a Burner 
Surfaces
Transfer Techniques
The Process from Start to Finish
Adding Texture
Adding Color
Finishes
 
PART II: PROJECTS & INSPIRATION
Wood Surfaces
Wood Alternatives
Adding Color
Frames
 
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Index