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There are several members that like to do pyrography either as a full project or as enhancements to their wood carvings. Here is an excerpt from Woodcraft magazine, 4-15-2022.
Pyrography is a safe hobby, but there are some things you can do to make it safer for you and those around you. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself and reduce the risk of fire.
For Personal Safety
- Burn in a well-ventilated area
- Give yourself plenty of room to work
- Do not burn near water or liquids
- Work on a clean, sturdy, hard surface
- Work on an incline to allow heat to rise up and away from your hand
- Tie back loose hanging anything — like hair, jewelry or headphones
- Wear a heat-resistant glove or finger guards while burning to protect your fingers. A thinner leather glove is a good option as it provides a layer of protection without restricting the movement of your hand
- Never change out points with your hand; instead, use a set of pliers and a ceramic dish for hot tips. This will allow you to safely switch, remove, and temporarily discard hot tips
- Do not use a woodburning tool during an electrical or thunderstorm
To Reduce the Risk of Fire
- Do not leave pyrography tools unattended
- Turn your burner off anytime that you leave the work area
- Secure the hot burner with a stand or holder
- Secure the stand or holder to your work surface, ensuring it does not move around
- Keep combustible materials at a safe distance from hot tools
- Keep pets and children away from hot tools
- Keep cords out from underfoot
- Use common sense when handling hot tools
- Follow all safety precautions set by the pyrography or woodburning tool manufacturer
To protect Your Eyes and Lungs
- Always wear a mask with a rating of P-95 or higher
- Wear eye protection if you burn hot and sit close or lean into your work
- Avoid smoke inhalation and eye irritation by working with your face tilted to the side of the woodburning project
- Place a fan on your desk facing away from your work but close to it. The fan will pull the smoke and heat into the back of the fan, pushing it away from you
- An activated carbon filter fan is an excellent option for maintaining a safe environment for your lungs
- Only burn on dry, well-seasoned, non-toxic, non-treated wood (no stains or finishes)
- Check the toxicity of the wood you will be using before burning a new piece
- When sanding is necessary, be sure to do so in a well-ventilated area
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