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Chapter 1

WOODBURNING SAFETY AND SETUP

Woodburning is a delightful art form full of many possibilities. Because of its versatile nature, it’s a good idea to learn more about the safety aspects of the art. Some woodburning tools can easily reach over 1,000 degrees F (540 degrees C); therefore, they present a possible danger of fire and personal burns. The following tips can help you enjoy the art of woodburning safely.

To reduce the risks of fire:

• Never leave a woodburner unattended.

• Keep combustible materials away from the hot tool.

• Keep pets and children away from the unit.

• Secure the hot burner with a stand or holder.

• Keep cords out from underfoot.

• Use common sense when handling the hot tool.

For personal safety:

• Burn in a well-ventilated area.

• Give yourself plenty of room to work.

• Wear a glove while burning to help protect your fingers.

• Never change out points with your hands; use needle-nosed pliers instead.

• Don’t burn near water or liquids.

• Work on an incline to allow heat to rise up and away from your hand.

• An inclined surface can also help your back and neck.

• Never use a woodburning tool during an electrical storm.

To protect your lungs:

• Burn on unfinished wood only.

• Never burn over wood with a clear coat, varnish, paint, etc. Doing so could produce toxic fumes.

• Only add color after the burning is complete. Burning over pigments can also create toxic fumes.

• Never burn on plastic, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), particle boards, or any wood that is bound together with glues.

• Always wear a dust mask when sanding.

• Use a respirator for applying clear coats.

• If you burn on leather, choose vegetable-tanned leather only.

• Do your research before attempting to burn on a new wood species. Most woods are safe, but a few can produce toxins when burned. There are some resourceful websites on wood safety; however, if you’re unsure, consult a wood specialist.

To protect the woodburner:

• Never change out points when a burner is on. You can damage the threads and/or shear the point off completely. Always wait until the woodburner has completely cooled before replacing points.

• Use light pressure when burning. Pressing down firmly can bend or damage the points or burner.

Keep the woodburning tool secure at all times.

Wearing a glove can protect against accidental burns. I use a simple gardening glove from my local store, but it has saved my fingers from excessive heat and unintentional burns.

Wear a respirator when applying clear coats or burning dark backgrounds, which can produce more smoke.

Bent point due to excessive pressure

Some artists plug in their burning unit and get comfy; burning in their easy chairs or even their beds. However, I strongly recommend working at a desk with adequate space and lighting. It’s important to secure your woodburning tool while working to help prevent the risk of fire. Also, keep your workspace free of papers, tissues, or other flammable items. Finally, always keep beverages or water far from the electric burner!

A flat desk is a great start, but using an inclined desk can help prevent neck and back pain, making the woodburning experience more enjoyable. I purchased this adjustable drafting table from an online retailer, but you can also use a tabletop easel with some adjustment.

Avoid neck and back pain by using an inclined desk.