f the many different
kinds supplied by the trade for this purpose. If this stool is well made
and finished, it will be a useful and attractive article.
[Illustration: Table and Seat Decorated in Pyro-Carving]
A LIBRARY SET IN PYRO-CARVING
The multitude of indifferently executed small articles which followed
the introduction of pyrography is beginning to disappear, people are
considering the art more seriously and applying it to more dignified
uses. Pyro-carving is one of the new methods of decorating furniture
which is both beautiful and practical, two qualities which do not always
go together.
The library set illustrated consists of a table, 30 by 50 in., with two
benches, 14 in. wide of the same length. The supports are made of
selected white pine, which must be absolutely free from pitch. The pine
is soft enough to work easily with the point and stands wear much better
than basswood. The tops and braces are made of curly fir, all of the
material must be 2-in. lumber, which dresses to about an inch and a
half. All surfaces, except the faces of the supports, are given a
well-rubbed coat of oil with a little burnt umber, the stain to be
applied directly to the wood without a filler.
On the outside of the supports the design is drawn in with pencil, the
background is then cut out smoothly with a chisel to the depth of an
eighth of an inch, leaving the decoration in relief. It is then burned
deeply, the background in straight flat strokes, the outlines having the
effect of a sloping, dark edge. The shadows are burned in as deeply as
possible and the shading is put in with the flat of the point.
A wax or egg-shell oil varnish finish is most suitable for this set.
[Illustration: Grille for an Arch]
A GRILLE WITH PEDESTALS TO MATCH
The accompanying sketch shows something unique in a grille that adds to
the appearance of a home furnished in mission style. When it is stained
and finished to match the furniture, it gives a consummate tone that
would be difficult to obtain by any other means.
To get the best results it should be made to blend with the furniture
and the arch in which it is to fit, in both weight and style. This will
depend very much upon one's preference, and for this reason full
dimensions are not given. No difficulty will be experienced, however, by
anyone handy with tools, in making it.
The material should be quarter-sawed oak, which can be secured planed
and sanded at t
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