Chopping Board Pyrography Workshop at Retford Arts Hub
A brand new workshop location, new creative faces, and plenty of wood burning fun! I recently hosted my very first pyrography workshop in Retford at the wonderful Retford Arts Hub.
After running workshops in different locations across Nottinghamshire and beyond, it was lovely to bring my wood burning sessions a little closer to home and introduce more people to the relaxing art of pyrography.
Discovering the Art of Wood Burning
During the workshop, participants were introduced to the basics of pyrography — learning how to use a pyrography pen safely, practising different techniques, and experimenting with marks, textures and shading before creating their finished pieces.
"Well run workshop, well explained and high quality wood and equipment. Very mindful and interesting craft to do. Great result!"
The room got very quiet very quickly with all that concentration… until a voice broke the silence to say, “I love the smell!” Campfire vibes!
Then I suddenly realised I’d forgotten to switch the lights on (oops!), and John discovered that the design he was burning was actually an owl, not a duck. Haha - Brilliant!
No previous drawing experience was needed (and I always say that you don’t have to be “artistic” to enjoy pyrography). With plenty of templates and guidance available, everyone was able to create something completely unique to them.
"Really enjoyable workshop. It was my first time trying pyrography and it was a workshop definitely suitable for beginners or those more experienced. Connie was a fantastic teacher and ensured everyone was comfortable with each step. I'd definitely love to try it again."
The aim of my workshops is to create a relaxed and welcoming space where people can slow down, try something new and simply enjoy the process of making.
"I am very pleased with what I made. Had a lovely time, met some friendly ladies. Connie was very informative and helped me when I needed it. Will book again!" - Dorothy
Pyrography is such a mindful craft. There’s something really special about switching off from everyday distractions and focusing on the gentle rhythm of burning your design into wood.
Creating Personalised Wooden Chopping Boards
For this workshop, everyone created their own wooden chopping board, choosing a design that reflected their own style and personality.
"Excellent and enjoyable workshop. Connie guides you through step by step. I'm not artistic at all but the results are excellent. Will definitely do this again with Connie - thank you!"
One participant even chose to draw her very own design directly onto the board in pencil before burning it — proving that there really are no rules when it comes to getting creative!
From botanical details and woodland-inspired designs to more personal creations, it was wonderful to see each blank wooden board transformed into a handmade piece ready to enjoy at home.
Every person approached their design differently, and that’s one of my favourite parts of teaching pyrography — there are never two pieces that are exactly the same.
"Thank you so much Connie for your time and patience, it has been a real pleasure to learn from you and enjoy a relaxed, informal atmosphere where I could enjoy my chosen craft! I would definitely come back!"
Once the burning was finished, everyone gave their boards a final sand before I finished them with Super Duper Odie’s Everlasting Light Oil, a food-safe finish that really brought out the natural beauty of the wood and their freshly burned designs. This meant their boards were ready to use at home, display as a handmade piece of art, or gift to someone special. There’s something rather lovely about leaving a workshop with something you’ve made yourself that can actually be enjoyed for years to come!
Thank You, Retford Arts Hub!
A huge thank you to everyone who joined me for my first workshop at Retford Arts Hub. It was fantastic to meet new makers, share my love of pyrography and see so many people leave with something they had created themselves.
"Comprehensive workshop, covering practice of technique, use of templates and stencils. Beautiful end product to be proud of. I would definitely recommend."
It was also lovely to see my friend Isabel and her mum, Dorothy, join us. It’s so heartwarming when friends and family show their support — especially when they come along and have a go themselves!
I’m always so proud watching people arrive saying, “I’m not very creative,” and then leave holding a piece of artwork they’ve made with their own hands.
That feeling never gets old.
Next Pyrography Workshop in Carlton in Lindrick
If you missed this workshop, don’t worry — there’s another chance to have a go!
My next pyrography chopping board workshop will be held at Carlton Civic Centre on Sunday 23rd August. You’ll learn the basics of wood burning, practise your technique and create your own handmade wooden chopping board to take home.
Whether you’re completely new to pyrography or you’ve been wanting to try it for a while, I’d love to welcome you along.
Based near Worksop, Retford or Carlton in Lindrick? Come and discover the joy of wood burning in a relaxed, friendly workshop — no artistic experience required, just a willingness to have a go! 🔥🪵
