Forgotten Hobbies: Pyrography

1. 1970s Antique Pyrography Wood Bench

2. Late 19th Century American Pyrography Holly Framed Mirror

3. Antique Folk Art Poker Work Arts & Crafts Monks Bench Table Chair New York 1900

4. 1900s Art Nouveau Pyrography Stand

5. 1910 Arts And Crafts Pyrography Bees And Poppies Chest

6. Antique Flemish Pyrography Floral Plant Stand Table

Before we had social media and too much technology, people spent their free time making things. We whittled, we carved, we crocheted, and we even burned things.

Pyrography is the art of decorating wood, leather, or other materials by burning designs into the surface. Also known as "pokerwork" or "wood burning," it reached a massive peak in popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a Victorian and Arts and Crafts home hobby.

One manufacturer in particular the Flemish Art Co.: A prominent American manufacturer from that era that mass-marketed blanks, panels, and finished pyrography items often featuring floral, portrait, or scenic motif.

Folk art pieces have become increasingly popular over the past few years. I think we all share a love for the imperfect nature of these handmade pieces, which feel like an escape from all the looks-the-same, mass-produced decor we see in every big-box store. They’re fun to find and collect, and no two pieces are the same.

Over the years I’ve had and sold various picture frames and wooden boxes. My most recent piece was found on our road trip from Florida to Maryland. I spotted this table/chair on Facebook Marketplace and I had to have it. I love folk art pieces and I love multi functional pieces. This one can be used as a little side table then a chair if needed when company is around. Every inch of this piece has been either hand carved or burned featuring flowers and leaves. This one might be a keeper for me but possibly for sale in the future.

Where to source these pieces?

Vintage secondhand sites like Etsy, eBay, Chairish, and 1st Dibs all have a small selection and the most common being old cigar boxes turned into keepsake boxes.

The larger furniture pieces are harder to find and with that being a bit more pricey.

You can also find these in the wild which, in my opinion is the most fun. Check your local antique mall or visit one on your next road trip, I see a piece every so often so they are out there! You would likely get luckiest in Pennsylvania and Ohio I find antiquing is the best in those states.

All thoughts, opinions, & grammar issues are my own.