No, this isn't the name of the newest chick flick. It's just me. I am a carpenter's wife. And, along with a carpenter, comes plenty of scrap pieces of wood. This has my wheels constantly turning. I am always thinking of ways I can turn that wood into fabulous pieces of art. My newest idea is wood-burning. Not piling it all in the backyard for a bonfire (which would be illegal right now, since there is a burn ban in effect), but using a wood-burning tool. My husband bought me a wood-burning tool awhile back to use on ribbon crafts. Sounds weird, but you can use it to cut the ribbon and seal the edges in one easy step. Make sure you keep it well out of baby's reach, though. It gets hot!
Anyway, I have a fabulous project in mind, but I have never actually done any wood-burning. So, I thought today was the perfect time to get some practice. I waited until my girls went down for naps (of course) and got started. First, I stenciled some designs onto my wood. Then, I outlined them with the wood-burning tool. It is definitely more difficult than it seems (especially those curved lines!), but it really is a simple technique. And, I love the idea that it is totally custom. No two projects will ever look the same! I have a bit of practicing left to do before I move onto my actual project, but I do like the non-uniform look. Although, luckily, I will not be putting words on the "real thing." I have terrible handwriting with a pencil, so it's definitely worse with a tool!
