Gather a wood-burning tool, wood surface, pencil, sandpaper, and safety gear
Work in a well-ventilated area
Sand the wood smooth
Clean off all dust
Transfer or sketch your design onto the wood
Heat the wood-burning tool to the desired temperature
Test the tool on scrap wood
Hold the tool like a pen
Burn along the design lines slowly and steadily
Use light pressure for thin lines
Use more time on the wood for darker marks
Vary tip shapes for different effects
Let the tool cool before changing tips
Avoid touching the hot tip
Keep flammable materials away
Unplug the tool when finished
Allow the wood to cool before handling or finishing
Apply a finish only after the burning is complete and the wood is cool