Po Po Po Pokerface

Pokerwork or pyrography is the term used to describe the art of making pictures or patterns on wood using a series of deep grooves made by heated pokers. Pyrography means "writing with fire" and is the traditional art of using a heated tip or wire to burn or scorch designs onto natural materials such as wood or leather. Burning can be done by means of a modern solid-point tool (similar to a soldering iron) or hot wire tool, or a more basic method using a metal implement heated in a fire, or even sunlight concentrated with a magnifying lens. This allows a great range of natural tones and shades to be achieved - beautiful subtle effects can create a picture in sepia tones, or strong dark strokes can make a bold, dramatic design. Its payday this week and there is a brilliant example of last century pokerwork on eBay at the moment. The question is do I or don't I? "A thing of beauty..."

Burn brightly, Pete