The Tools

I'm frequently asked what burner and tips I use.  for the past couple of years my go to burner has been a burnmaster HAWK.  I also have a detail Master unit that I use with a razertip pen and tips.  By far, the burnmaster is my favorite and gets the most hours of use for a few reasons.  The main reasons are that it’s a solid, uncomplicated unit, the pen feels the most natural in my hand, and it's the only pen I've found that doesn't get ridiculously hot while you're using it.  I definitely use the detail master and pens, but always go back to my burnmaster. 

As for the colors I use, it really all depends on what I want for the final product.  I will use everything from wood dye to colored pencils or crayons.  I'm always experimenting with different mediums to see what works for what I want to achieve.

The materials

I Work hard, with all of the materials I use in my woodburning, to support small businesses whenever and wherever I can.  From the hinges and latches on my boxes to the finish I purchase for all my items from an independent store.

Each of the boxes I burn on is handcrafted to my exact specifications by a father and son team of woodworkers. I receive the boxes completely unfinished and ready to start the design process and burning. 

The Process

Once the burning is complete for each item, I go back in and add any color necessary. I use a wide variety of mediums for the color application depending on what I would like the final outcome to be.

All of my pieces are finished with a low odor water based finish that stays clear, resists yellowing over time and provides a durable protective coating, so that the beauty you see when you receive your item, is the same beauty that will last over time.