Fractal wood burning, also known as Lichtenberg wood burning, is an intriguing art form where high-voltage electricity is applied to wood to create intricate, tree-like patterns. Selecting the right type of wood for this art is crucial to achieving the desired aesthetic effect and ensuring the process works smoothly. The best wood for fractal burning depends on several factors, such as moisture levels, grain direction, and surface absorption. Here’s a breakdown of suitable wood types:
Best Types of Wood for Fractal Burning
Walnut Wood: Known for its beautiful dark grains and hardness, walnut wood creates stunning, detailed Lichtenberg figures. It’s a popular choice among woodworkers due to its durability and high-end aesthetic.
Olive Wood: Olive wood has a rich, smooth grain, making it ideal for fractal burning. The intricate patterns that form on olive wood often stand out due to the wood’s unique natural appearance.
Oak Wood: This hardwood is widely used in woodworking and is excellent for fractal burning. The grain structure of oak allows for deeper, more defined patterns.
Cedar Wood: Cedar is another hardwood that works well with fractal burning. It’s slightly softer than oak but still sturdy enough to create beautiful, intricate designs. The red tint in cedar can add warmth to the finished artwork.
Basswood: Softwoods, like basswood, are easier to burn and create detailed fractal patterns. Its light color contrasts well with the darker burn marks, making the design stand out vividly.
Pinewood: Pine is also a softwood that works well for fractal burning, especially because it burns hotter, allowing the patterns to form more quickly. The pale color of pinewood enhances the visual effect of the burned lines.
Engineered Woods for Fractal Burning
Plywood: Plywood, especially the thin veneer on the surface, is excellent for absorbing moisture, which helps in directing the path of the fractal burn. The top layer of plywood often produces very clear and defined designs. Oriented Strand Board (OSB): OSB consists of layers of wood strands that have been compressed with adhesives. This type of engineered wood tends to absorb water well, allowing the electric current to create clear, sharp patterns.
Factors to Consider
Moisture Content: Woods that absorb moisture better tend to yield more controlled fractal patterns. Applying a solution of water and salt to the surface of the wood before burning can help direct the electricity along specific paths. Grain and Texture: The grain direction and texture of the wood can influence the burn pattern. Denser grains may produce more intricate designs, while looser grains may allow for wider, more open patterns. Safety Considerations: Fractal wood burning involves high-voltage electricity, which is extremely dangerous. It’s important to follow strict safety precautions and use appropriate protective gear.
In conclusion, while hardwoods like walnut, oak, and olive are great for deep, intricate patterns, softwoods like basswood and pine can offer smoother, quicker burns. Engineered woods like OSB and plywood are excellent for controlling the direction of the burn due to their ability to absorb moisture efficiently.
