Fashioned by flame

Pyrography is the ancient art of decorating wood by burning a design on the surface with a heated metallic point. The term is thought to date to the 17th century, and means writing with fire, from the Greek pur for fire and graphos for writing. It can be practised using specialised tools, or using a metal implement heated in a fire. This can be a firm strip of wire or a long nail with a handle such as a cork attached. The tip is heated over a hot flame. Great care is taken when doing this. Using slow, steady strokes, the design is drawn onto the wood. Rounds of wood are cut from seasoned branches and sanded to provide a surface which is easy to work upon. Softwoods such as conifers are ideal for pyrography. Wood that has been treated is not suitable. Stars and snowflakes are simple designs to make for Christmas decorations.