Craft Name: Pyrography on Wood
Region: Saharanpur, Kashmir Chhattisgarh
CRAFT
HISTORY
Pyrography, or the art of burning designs onto wood, has existed in India for centuries as a decorative folk practice. Artisans traditionally used heated metal rods to create motifs on wooden panels, boxes, and musical instruments. The 19th century saw an evolution with finer tools allowing shading and detailed artwork. Cottage industries began producing pyrography décor in the early 20th century.
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE:
- Designs are literally burned into the wood, giving a permanent effect.
- Allows detailed shading, texture, and depth.
Received a
GI tag in 2023
COLOURS
- Traditional palettes include rich jewel tones, maroon, emerald, navy, royal blue, paired with gold or silver zari.
- How much time does it take to make a product, and how many artisans are involved in making this craft? A Zardozi piece takes 3–20 days, involving 2–5 skilled karigars
MOTIFS
How much time does it take to make a product, and how many artisans are involved in making this craft?
A pyrography piece takes 1–5 days, involving 1-2 artisan in the process
RAW MATERIAL
- Various types of wood – Walnut, Mango, Sheesham, Teak
- Pyrography pens
- Wire nibs
- Heated metal rods –
- Soldering rods
- Heated brass/iron stylus
CRAFT MAKING PROCESS
HOW TO IDENTIFY GENUINE AND AUTHENTIC CRAFT
- Genuine products have lines slightly natural variations in width and depth
- Some areas will look a little lighter or darker depending on hand pressure