Any book subtitled 'A Complete Guide' sets itself up to fall short, but I have to say this is a very thorough look at the materials, tools, and techniques of pyrography. Sue Walters covers a great amount of information with clear text and photos, excellent organization, and (being down under) a much more global look at availability of tools and surfaces than you'll find in other pyro books. She covers wood, leather, paper, gourds, and several other materials, while other authors stick mainly to wood. (Fabric is the only omission I noticed.) Although this book has the work of only one person, the variety of surfaces, styles, and techniques will leave you thinking she has a split personality, in a very good way. The short chapter on texturing includes a chart that concisely explains how 70 textures were created, including the nib used. By texture, I don't mean just the illusion of texture; many include the 3-D advantage that burning can have over drawing. The way she brings eyes to life is fantastic.
There must be something that I didn't like. Well, yes, I don't see the degree of outlining in the visible world that she employs in some of her work, but since line drawing is one of the styles that can be done with a hot pen, this book would be incomplete without some outlines, wouldn't it? Also, I would have liked more variety in the examples and patterns, which are almost all wildlife. No landscapes, no buildings, no still life. But forget the quibbles, because you'll have a good foundation to do any subject, after you read this wealth of information. You won't regret buying this book.
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Reviews with images
Very nice book.
I decided to take up pyrography because I had a friend who wanted a memorial plaque for her dog. I figured my sketches would translate well into something more permanent than just a paper drawing. While I'm not skilled enough to burn a highly detailed drawing, I think my first attempt with the help of this book, came out fairly well. I do wish there was more discussion and illustrations on using the various nibs, but what she does present was very helpful to me.Update: I added a photo of my second attempt at wood burning. Mistakes, yes, but still amazed at what anyone can do!
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