Pyrography, or "fire writing" in Greek, is the art of burning, rather than drawing, an image. Wood is one medium. Other artists choose to work on leather or gourds.
Cate's illustrations are meticulously drawn on Russian Birch plywood, a high-quality cabinet grade material which holds a burn very well. Most recently, she has just added a new collection of pyrographic illustration on watercolor paper
Burning creates unique shades ranging from subtle beiges to deep nutmegs and charcoal blacks.
Fire can be a destructive force, so there is no opportunity to erase. Each stroke of the pen is permanent.
Examples on furniture, decorative household items and architectural panels
from 15-19th century are found in collections throughout Europe. One vase found in Peru dates back to 700 AD. Museum curators and historical societies are now trying to reclaim lost pieces from private collections.
Pyrography reached its peak of popularity during the Victorian Era with the invention of the benzene-fueled torch. A wire-tipped torch was invented in 1916, the forerunner of today's electric-controlled models that can heat various pen tips to temperatures of 900-1200 degrees(F).
Each piece of wood is sanded super smooth, down to 400 grit. Any bumps could cause the wood to burn unevenly.
Burning an image is the opposite of pencil drawing. Instead of pressure, time (how long it takes to draw a line), temperature and hand control creates different effects.
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Her favorite pen, shaped like a small spoon, is on the right.
Cate uses a Nibsburner Model 1381B, which has two controls and can heat the pen tips to glowing-hot. The 150-watts of power helps to maintain a consistant temperature.
Cate signs and labels every piece of artwork on the backside because she feels a signature on the front can be distracting. She also brands her woodburned illustrations with mark: "Handcrafted by Cate McCauley."
Illustrations on wood are protected with a natural beeswax finish. The new Pyrography Watercolor Collection on paper is matted under clear glass.
Frames are sealed with poly, oil or beeswax, and are ready to hang indoors away from direct sunlight.
Cleaning should be done with a soft cloth,
or with a slightly dampened cloth and wiped dry immediately.
