Wood Burning with Jade Scarlett

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The class introduces beginners to the art of pyrography, the process of decorating wood with controlled heat. Wood burning combines drawing skills with temperature control and patience to create detailed linework, shading, and texture. In this session, participants learn how to safely operate a wood burning tool while developing foundational techniques that produce clean lines and dimensional effects.

The lesson also covers tool setup, surface preparation, line control, basic shading, and simple design transfer methods. Participants will practice creating consistent strokes, adjusting pressure and speed for tonal variation, and building contrast through layered burns. By the end of the session, attendees will complete a small finished design and feel confident continuing their exploration of pyrography.

This class includes a dedicated 30 minutes of Q&A directly with Jade Scarlett.

What You'll Learn

• Understand what pyrography is and how wood burning works as controlled drawing with heat.
• Set up tools and surfaces properly, including temperature settings, tip choice, and wood preparation.
• Practice line control and basic strokes using steady speed and pressure for consistent results.
• Create shading and value through gradual build-up and layered burns.
• Transfer designs and plan simple compositions for beginner-friendly success.
• Finish pieces safely and understand basic tool care and storage.

Who It's For

• Beginners who have never worked with a wood burning tool
• DIY enthusiasts interested in handmade home decor or gifts
• Artists looking to expand drawing skills into a new medium
• Crafters curious about adding texture and detail to wooden surfaces
• Anyone interested in learning a creative, hands-on skill safely and confidently

Required Materials

• Wood burning tool with adjustable temperature (beginner-friendly kit recommended)
• Assorted interchangeable tips (universal, shading, and fine point tips)
• Smooth, unfinished wood surface (basswood plaques or panels recommended)
• Pencil and eraser
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Heat-resistant surface or protective mat
• Safety gloves (optional but recommended)
• Mask or proper ventilation setup
• Optional: graphite paper for transferring designs, ruler, stencils

How to Join

• This class is available exclusively to CreativeLive subscribers. Not a subscriber? Join here.
• The class will be delivered via Zoom-style live sessions through CreativeLive.
• To reserve your spot, register using the Sign Up form and button above. Space is limited.
• A unique Zoom join link will be sent to registered subscribers prior to the class date.

About the Instructor

Jade Scarlett is a watercolor artist, modern calligrapher, educator, and confessed craftaholic. It is her deepest belief that people can be happier and more fulfilled when expressing themselves creatively, and she's intensely passionate about teaching and making art accessible to all.

Her desire is to uplift and encourage everyone to live their best creative lives.

Her motto in life is “Make art, feel happy!"