Just as there is often a story behind a handcrafted piece, there is a story behind Woodburning with Style. That story begins with award-winning artist and pyrographer Simon Easton, who has dubbed his creations "wood tattoos" because they remind him of getting a tattoo - both mark a surface, and both can be used to commemorate an event or communicate a feeling.

With his contemporary flair and use of pattern, Easton takes you on a journey from the concepts and basics of woodburning, to tips and techniques that encourage your creativity and the development of style. Step-by-step projects such as coasters, key rings, and a wall clock are mixed in with lessons on everything from making simple marks to texturing and lettering.

Easton's fondness for pyrography is evident throughout the book. His teaching style is one that imparts guidance while letting you find your own creative niche with the art form. If you are a beginner, Woodburning with Style will have you wanting to learn more, and if you are an experienced pyrographer, you will be inspired by Easton's designs.

I am so chuffed I can't describe it!! A fellow Moderator, Simon Easton on the Crafts Forum was asked to write a book on how to get started in Pyrography and asked for non wood crafters for help to show the diversity of wood burning and that it could be combined with other crafts.

So, naturally I offered my services and Si burned the initials H and S into two wooden discs so I could make Hayley and Stephens Wedding Card. I don't think I blogged it when I made it (doh) but here you can see it in print:

I also asked Si to make a tooth box so that the tooth fairy could keep all Samuel's tiny baby teeth in together. Samuel likes dinosaurs and I wanted his name on the box and left the rest to Si. And here you can see how he made the design - IN HIS BOOK!!!!!

Samuel's name has been burned into the wool in the style of bones. I am so pleased with the box to the extent that I am looking forward to Jacob loosing his baby teeth!

So, the book is called Woodburning with Style and is by Simon Easton. It's published by Fox Chapel Publishing and is not yet available to buy - but I've got one!! It's packed full of useful tips and projects and basically everything you need to know about woodburning. The only downside, and I hope you take note of this Si, is that it should come with a scratch and sniff page as the smell of burning wood is the best in the world!

You can actually pre-order it on Amazon via this link - and its a really good book to have! Both my boys have looked through it and have asked lots of questions on how it is all done.

Beautiful photos and a lovely writing style that will appeal to anyone!

Go buy!!!!

Simon Easton leads you through the basics of our craft with an in-depth exploration of tool styles, pen tip styles and even how to create your own wire tips. His deep understanding of the art theory used in pyrography design is clearly shown through a series of wonderful sample burns and his illustrations that reflect his approach to executing any pyro project . "Woodburning with Style" is not so much a how-to book as a why-to book that will teach the beginning pyrographer as well as the advanced new ways of thinking about how to turn any design into an exciting wood burning adventure. This is a book that you will read thoroughly and then return to often as you grow in your craft of pyrography.

As a child, I took a brief stab at woodburning. My brother had received a kit as a birthday present and was willing to share.

I don't know what happened to that artwork of my youth, but wow, woodburning (formally pyrography) has come a long way.

A few weeks ago, a new book arrived at my desk. One look at the cover and I was hooked on woodburning all over again. Now, it's classy, even contemporary.

After browsing through "Woodburning with Style" by Simon Easton, I bought a woodburning kit the following weekend.

The way Easton presents his subject matter is simple and well presented in words and pictures. He starts with the basics: what tools you need and how to use them safely. Then come simple projects, with how-to photos and tips all along the way. He gradually sees us through making coasters, key rings, clocks, door signs and plaques. Planning, drawing, using patience, trying new objects, patterns and subjects.

The book wraps up with color techniques, eye-catching Celtic patterned border plates and appendices: types of wood, texture and pattern samples and resources.

Thank goodness for "resources," because I was wondering where to get those bangle bracelets shown off on the book cover. I'm planning on turning some out for Christmas presents this year.

Recently I purchased a couple of wood blanks in a local crafts store and sat down with Easton's book to give it a try. What I learned is I have a long way to go, and eventually I'll have to spring for that pricey pen.

But all this inspired me to contact Easton by e-mail about his terrific new book and get the scoop about woodburning as art.

Were you born into pyrography?

I first experienced pyrography at a young age but I certainly don't consider myself to be young now! I remember using a pyrography kit in Design and Technology lessons at school to make a games board when I was 11 or 12. I then didn't touch any woodburning equipment again for another 15 years or so.

Did you take a lot of art classes?

I have always loved art and design subjects, and I worked in a wide range of media during my studies at all levels. These included fine art, ceramics, photography, graphic design, printing, sculpture and many more. I eventually realized that I gained the most enjoyment from working with solid materials such as wood, glass, metal and plastics. I studied (for) a bachelor of arts degree in three-dimensional design in which I focused more on wood and metal. All of the designs that I produced featured a decorative or textural element, and pyrography has been the next step in my hunt for ways to adorn a wooden surface.

Why this book? Why now?

I decided to buy myself a pyrography kit back in 2007 for purely recreational reasons -- to give me something to do when not at work which was creative and rewarding. I really enjoyed using it and started making a massive range of different items and designs. I joined the UK Crafts Forum (craftsforum.co.uk) and started to learn about ways to promote and sell handmade items.

Within a year, I had a website, was selling online and was exhibiting at crafts fairs. I became a moderator on the Forum and offer my experience to others starting out.

I received an e-mail from Fox Chapel Publishing out of the blue one day, stating that they had seen my pyrography work and liked my individual style. I was asked if I wanted to write a book on the subject and I leapt at the opportunity, as I've always dreamt of being an author since I was a child.

I believe that my style adds a new contemporary take on the art of pyrography, both complementing and adding to the talent of other woodburning artists producing great designs today. I also think that there is a substantial rise in the appeal of handcrafted gifts in the current economic climate: I believe that people are looking to get more for their money, and unique or personalized handmade designs are definitely becoming more popular due to this.

You've also received awards for your woodturning, silversmithing and pewterware work. What's your favorite? Did one lead to another?

It was a real honor to receive recognition for my designs from both the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths and the Worshipful Company of Pewterers, but the most rewarding success for me was my involvement in the "onetree" project which stemmed from a single oak tree felled in 1998. All parts of it were saved and distributed to artists, craftspeople and manufacturers to make a huge range of beautiful and useful pieces. All of the work formed a major touring exhibition across Great Britain in 2001-2002, accompanied by a book with a foreword from Prince Charles.

My design for a turned wooden oak bowl with a spun pewter insert was accepted for inclusion, which was a real honor as I believe I was the only student to successfully submit a design.

(Editor's note: For more information, visit onetree.org.uk; for the book, visit amazon.co.uk.)

What's your next project?

I'm working on updating my website (woodtattoos.com) as well as a number of commissions for customers. I'm also in the early stages on development for further books: I'm working on a visual reference book of designs I've come up with, and I would also like to make a further book of pyrography projects for budding woodburners to experiment with.

Anything else you'd like to add?

Pyrography is such an individual art and I hope that my book helps people of all ages and skill levels to pick up a kit and enjoy using it. People can get in touch with me through my website or at facebook.com/woodtattoos if they would like to keep updated with my latest creations.

It was many months ago that I first heard Simon Easton was writing a book. At the time it seemed such a distant completion date and such a monumental task that I admired Si's dedication in 'sticking with it'.

For as long as I have been a member of the Crafts Forum I have admired Si's work. So when he asked for ways in which pyrography could be incorporated into other arts and crafts, as well as pictures he could work with, I am sure he was inundated with offers - I certainly stepped forward!

The result is a seriously impressive book. Woodburning with Style is beautiful in its own right and could happily grace any coffee table whether you are into pyrography or not. The presentation style is very accessible, a comprehensive guide for beginners and more experienced pyrographers. Chock full of tips and techniques that walk you through 'how to achieve a look' but not so structured that you would not be able to develop your own style

After all inspiration is flattering but outright copy catting is unfair and nasty.

When someone makes a craft look easy it's testament to their skill not that it is easy! Simon manages to impart technical expertise in a way that, if you follow his guidance, you would achieve a pleasing result too.

On the Craft Forum Simon has always been very generous with his knowledge and this book is no exception. Some authors give you enough to 'be getting on with' but not so much that you feel confident, but Woodburning with Style is not like that, which makes a refreshing change.


Just why am I writing about a book that has nothing to do with glass? Well, Simon kept CF folk posted with his progress along the way and made everyone feel part of his project even though he alone was putting in ALL the legwork while the rest of us ooohed, ahhhed and urged him to keep up the good work!

On top of that, I recognise some of his pieces and it's fun to see familiar names through the book of other virtual friends. There is even an armadillo and that chess board is stunning!


Lastly, a photo of mine made it into Si's book which I am very chuffed about. The step by step project based on the photo is awesome and truly showcases Simon's expertise and willingness to share his skill in 'drawing with fire'.

Wednesday, 14 July 2010My thoughts on Woodburning with Style by Simon Easton
It was many months ago that I first heard Simon Easton was writing a book. At the time it seemed such a distant completion date and such a monumental task that I admired Si's dedication in 'sticking with it'.

For as long as I have been a member of the Crafts Forum I have admired Si's work. So when he asked for ways in which pyrography could be incorporated into other arts and crafts, as well as pictures he could work with, I am sure he was inundated with offers - I certainly stepped forward!

The result is a seriously impressive book. Woodburning with Style is beautiful in its own right and could happily grace any coffee table whether you are into pyrography or not. The presentation style is very accessible, a comprehensive guide for beginners and more experienced pyrographers. Chock full of tips and techniques that walk you through 'how to achieve a look' but not so structured that you would not be able to develop your own style.

When someone makes a craft look easy it's testament to their skill not that it is easy! Simon manages to impart technical expertise in a way that, if you follow his guidance, you would achieve a pleasing result too.

On the Craft Forum Simon has always been very generous with his knowledge and this book is no exception. Some authors give you enough to 'be getting on with' but not so much that you feel confident, but Woodburning with Style is not like that, which makes a refreshing change.


Just why am I writing about a book that has nothing to do with glass? Well, Simon kept CF folk posted with his progress along the way and made everyone feel part of his project even though he alone was putting in ALL the legwork while the rest of us ooohed, ahhhed and urged him to keep up the good work!
On top of that, I recognise some of his pieces and it's fun to see familiar names through the book of other virtual friends. There is even an armadillo and that chess board is stunning!


Lastly, a photo of mine made it into Si's book which I am very chuffed about. The step by step project based on the photo is awesome and truly showcases Simon's expertise and willingness to share his skill in 'drawing with fire'.

I wish Simon all the success he deserves! Also it's highly recommended that you go and get a copy before they all sell out! Perhaps on Amazon

Simon Easton's brand of woodburnlng is hip, edgy, and modem. He's transformed a classic craft into an art form that
expresses contemporary style. With the author's new book, Woodbuming with Style, anyone can convey a unique personal flair. This 208-page guide teaches readers how to "draw with fire" using a simple toot that's a cross between a pencil and a curling iron. Even new crafters can easily decorate any wooden surface and discover how to easily embellish objects with rich texture, patterns, and motifs.