Description

The original edition of ‘The Complete Pyrography’, which has reprinted a number of times since its first publication in 1995, has proved to be an invaluable resource for thousands of crafters interested in pyrography. This new revised edition of Stephen Poole’s detailed guide to the craft will be updated with some current work practices and an extended gallery of inspirational work from the very best pyrography artisans. Stephen’s book comprehensively covers the subject from the history of the craft, also referred to as ‘pokerwork’ in earlier centuries, materials and equipment required through to all the skills to create ‘burnt wood art decoration’. Starting with basic tracing, Stephen explores all the techniques to recreate lifelike textures and shading to conjure up inspiring images of nature, still-life and atmospheric scenes. Stephen’s forte is nature-inspired compositions and so his expertise will allow the reader to tackle fine detail of fur, skin and eyes as well as wonderful insect subjects and flora. Also covering colour work and the pros and cons of gouache, watercolour and woodstains, Stephen insists it should be a matter of pyrography enhanced by colour and not a painting with pyrography details. The author gives indispensible instruction specifically on pyrography for woodturned objects and how to protect and finish the work. A chapter on advanced techniques gives guidance and tips to add a professional finesse to the work and this leads on to how to display and market the work for sale. Twelve design projects are presented in clear step-by-step process and in addition the reader will be inspired to decorate all manner of saleable items such as rolling pins, wooden spoons, earrings and brooches, frames, key rings and key holders, jotter boards, breadboards and cheese platters. AUTHOR: Stephen Poole studied graphic design at Berkshire College of Art and has spent nearly 40 years developing his own particular pyrography techniques and running workshops to pass on his expertise. He works to commission and his work also exhibits and sells via galleries and craft shops. He is the author of ‘The Complete Pyrography’ (1995) and ‘Pyrography Handbook (Practical Guides)’ (1998) both published by GMC Publications Ltd.