Creative Fuel Book Club

Book clubs are a great way to meet new people and discuss literature. They are also an excellent way to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world around you.

A book club provides an opportunity to read a variety of books and discuss them with people who have similar interests. It provides a platform to share your opinions and gain different perspectives from other members.

Book clubs can also be a great way to make friends and build your social circle. They can also be a source of encouragement and support as members can come together to discuss the books and their thoughts. By being a part of a book club, you can also build your communication skills and learn to articulate your thoughts and opinions in a constructive manner.

Keep reading to learn more about the Book Club tailored to creative entrepreneurs created by Alaina Dawson of Sweet Peach Burns!

CREATIVE FUEL BOOK CLUB

Hosted by Alaina of  @sweetpeachburns

What?

Welcome to the Creative Fuel Book Club - a reading journey curated with artists and small biz owners in mind. This book club is meant to be fun, educational, and inspirational. It will also be a great place for like minded people to join together and chat about some of their favorite topics, pain points, ideas for growth, and more! 

Who?

As mentioned above, this book club was made especially for artists and small biz owners, however I would encourage ANYONE that wants to learn more about these topics, would like to one day be an artist/small biz owner, or someone that just simply loves reading and discussing books with people to join!

For artists/small biz owners, each book will focus on topics that will be more than helpful for growth and inspiration. My true hope for this book club is that like minded folks going through similar experiences will join in reading books that will be helpful to their journey and the discussions that follow will be inspiring to all members. 

You can also order a Creative Fuel Book club sticker to rep your membership! They are $3 shipped within the US - or $6 to Canada. If you live in another country, let me know and I will see what we can do to get you one. 

When?

Recognizing that many artists/small biz owners are already strapped for time, this is a leisurely book club. None of the books are too long or complex, and there will only be four books to read during the year - meaning you have ~ 3 months to read each book. I will be announcing each new book at the beginning of each quarter (or you can join my KoFi for an advance schedule of all four books - more about that below). The time frame to read the four books and the discussions will happen quarterly. I will solicit input in which dates/times work best for members to hold each quarterly book discussion, but as of now the tentative timeline is as follows: 

• Book 1: Real Artists Don’t Start by Jeff Goins →  January - March (Discussion: March 31st or April 1st)

• Book 2: April - June: TBA → (Discussion:July 1st or July 2nd)

• Book 3: July - September: TBA → (Discussion: September 30th or October 1st)

• Book 4: October - December: TBA → (Discussion:January 5th or 6th 2024)

THAT SAID: you do NOT need to read/participate in all four quarters to be a part of the book club. You can pick and choose; jump in and out as you like/can. Even if you start a book but don’t finish it in time, you are still more than welcome to join the discussions! There are no rules for participating. 

I will also be giving away ONE copy of each book on Instagram at the beginning of the quarter it is being read so be sure to be following me and keep an eye out for that! KoFi members can get a few extra entries (see more below). 

Where?

All book discussions will happen virtually on Discord. These will be video/audio meetings. You do not need to join on video or even audio if you do not want to, as there will also be a chat function available. Discord is a free service that can be downloaded on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. You will need an account to log in and access the meeting room. You can join the discord anytime - please message me for the link. I will also be sending a join link to anyone on my membership list a few days leading up to each quarterly meeting. If you have any questions about Discord, please ask! ALSO - updates, announcements, and other info will be dissipated through various channels: Instagram, email, and KoFi. If you want to be sure not to miss any book club related news, please sign up for my email newsletter. I will be sending a special, quarterly book club edition.

Sign up using THIS link.

How?

Joining is super easy - just let me know you are interested in some way! Reach out to me on Instagram or FaceBook (@sweetpeachburns) or send me an email at sweetpeachburns@gmail.com. I will keep a list of all ‘current’ members to make sure they receive info and the Discord meeting invite - if at any point you want to be removed from the membership list, again just let me know - no hard feelings 🙂 

Want more perks…? Join the STAR Pals on my KoFi!

• Book Club STAR Pals: Join this tier to support Sweet Peach Burns and gain exclusive access to a private Discord channel with extra book club discussions, monthly reading guides, giveaways, and more! If you don't use Discord no worries - I will also be sending any digital perks via email!! STAR Pals will also help me choose books for future book club quarters :) Each STAR Pal gets +2 entries into quarterly book giveaways. This tier also includes access to exclusive book club merch and a freebie for every 3 months of membership!

• [All book club members are automatically signed up for the book club newsletter]

Also - signing up to be a STAR pal also helps me artist/small biz owner 😀 Since I am organizing this book club for free and even giving away copies of books, any bit of support helps! Even just a one-time tip or purchase of a book club sticker!

Link to my Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/sweetpeachburns

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - Radial Symmetry Edition

We are beyond excited to share The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates, Radial Symmetry Edition

This book is a dream realized: a radial symmetry guide and pyrography book of templates created by our community for the community. This book of templates is a beautiful collection of mandala-inspired designs for artists at all stages from our incredibly talented and diverse community.

Every one-of-a-kind piece of art you create from these community templates is a collaboration! Each design can be interpreted in an infinite number of ways.

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - Radial Symmetry Edition features pyrography design patterns created by the community for the community. It showcases 50+ original templates from 20 wood burning artists from around the globe, with the intention of helping artists of all skill levels past, present, and future to hone their craft, try new styles, and make beautiful art through collaboration. This collection of designs includes a variety of patterns in radial symmetry style.

Check out #thewoodburncommunitybook on instagram to view completed projects from all the template books!

Basia Chmielowiec guides you with step-by-step instructions on how to make your own radial symmetry patterns and includes 7 different creative variations. Her intention is to give you the knowledge and instructions for you to continue making one-of-a-kind radial symmetry patterns on your own!

Plus, she includes 3 outlines for you to practice on or doodle in!

Rachel Strauss, author of The Wood Burn Book and the original Wood Burn Community Book of Templates Volume One and Two, founder of Burn Club, Burn Club+ and Wood Burn Corner, includes a basic wood burning quickstart guide, and provides you with a list of essential materials needed for pyrography. She offers information on getting involved in the community, before presenting you with a feast of artwork, each begging to become your next creation!

The 20 Featured Pyrography Artists

Follow them and tag them in the pieces you create!

@finelinepyro

@woodburncorner

@Calisanja

@carolinerenck_art

@Soulfulmuse_

@prettyful.creations

@knotsandembers

@JenniferRHeuertz

@UrbanFarmFoods

@kraftinwithkate

@mapleandfernco

@itsdavidandrenee

@ReSaArtHouse

@alteredpathartstudio

@LittleBlackBirdDesigns

@RiverValleyPyro

@kelsieart

@blindlove.woodburning

@woodburnedandwired

@krishnascanvas

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Easily size and print the designs to match the wood you already have by downloading the digital version

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WANT SOME MORE PATTERNS?

Check out all the pattern books available

or the templates store full of individual patterns for sale.

LOOKING FOR A MORE IN DEPTH GUIDE and pyrography project ideas?

Check out The Wood Burn Book

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The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates - Volume 2

I am beyond excited to share my third book, The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates, Volume 2!

This book is a dream realized: a pyrography book of templates created by our community for the community. This book of templates is a beautiful collection of designs for artists at all stages from our incredibly talented and diverse community.

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates features pyrography design patterns created by the community for the community. It showcases 60+ original templates from 34 wood burning artists from around the globe, with the intention of helping artists of all skill levels past, present, and future to hone their craft, try new styles, and make beautiful art through collaboration. This collection of designs include fantasy, florals, nature, sea life, patterns, people and more.

Check out #thewoodburncommunitybook on instagram to view completed projects!

Every one-of-a-kind piece of art you create from these community templates is a collaboration! Each design can be interpreted in an infinite number of ways.

Rachel Strauss, author of The Wood Burn Book and the original Wood Burn Community Book of Templates founder of Burn Club and Wood Burn Corner, includes a basic wood burning quickstart guide, and provides you with a list of essential materials needed for pyrography. She offers information on getting involved in the community, before presenting you with a feast of artwork, each begging to become your next creation!

The 34 Featured Pyrography Artists

Follow them and tag them in the pieces you create!

@woodburncorner

@finelinepyro

@sweetpeachburns

@PatesPyrography

@Calisanja

@bonidutch

@BreMakingThings

@Dioni_isalasart

@carolinerenck_art

@woodburntflorals

@Soulfulmuse_

@prettyful.creations

@knotsandembers

@JennaJesseePyrography

@JenniferRHeuertz

@Resha_alhussaini

@UrbanFarmFoods

@the.wandering.pyro

@Burlap2LaceCreations

@mapleandfernco

@soulwoodart

@CompletelyDevoted_Designs

@itsdavidandrenee

@ReSaArtHouse

@alteredpathartstudio

@theroderickshop

@Plaid.and.Peaches

@LittleBlackBirdDesigns

@taciejensen

@heckman_woodworking

@RiverValleyPyro

@kelsieart

@blindlove.woodburning

@brandyroels

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Easily size and print the designs to match the wood you already have by downloading the digital version

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Find more patterns Here:

in the template books or VISIT the templates store full of individual patterns for sale.

Or inspiration and Project ideas in The Wood Burn Book

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Rachel's February Reading List

February was a shorter month, and work on the Pyrography + Business Summit picked up, so I didn’t get quite as many books read as I would have liked. What I did read, I mostly enjoyed, and I am excited to share them with you.

All books are linked directly to Amazon for easy purchasing. I receive a tiny portion of Amazon’s profits if you choose to purchase one, but this in no way effects my reviews. I will always be honest with my thoughts on products, books, services, etc.

1. Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuk - I really like Gary as a no-nonsense speaker on business. He is a bit abrasive, but in a good, motivating way. This book talks about give, give, giving before you ask of your customers/clients. The jabs being the value you provide and the right hooks being the ask. Effot is important for telling your unique story in a noisy world.

2. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng - I liked this book, ok. It is a NY Times Bestseller, but I have read better as of late. The characters were well developed, there is an artist in the story, and a couple twists and turns. There is a push and pull with the storyline, and it is clear that there is no black and white or wrong and right when it comes to some things, and there are plenty of those in this book. Well written.

3. The Power of Persuasion by John Myers - Lots of persuasive tactics. At one point he lists off over a hundred different ways to convince people to do something. It is also helpful in being able to spot persuasion when it is being used on you.

4. How to Stop Time by Matt Haig - “It only takes a moment to live.” This was a very cool book. Gets you thinking about the long and short of history and how it repeats itself. Really enjoyed the concept and the name drops throughout. I loved how the author played with time, locations and memories. “Sometimes you can just look around and be happy right where you are.”

5. Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover - Another great story from Coleen Hoover. Heartache, death, forgiveness, and connection, this book has it all and you will fly through it. You will feel for the main character who is stuck in an impossible situation. “Regret keeps you stuck on pause.” Makes you think about mistakes that you have made in life, and how one small act can change everything. “Are you going to live in the sadness or die in it?”

6. On The Shortness of Life by Seneca - This was recommended by several Titans in their fields out of the book Tools of Titans by Timothy Ferris. It is a really really old book written by a Roman philosopher. It is said her wrote it to his father-in-law, a mortal essay. It has since been translated and transcribed over time. “Life is long if you know how to use it.”

7. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon - Our Keynote Speaker for the upcoming Pyrography + Business Summit! This is a NY Times bestselling book with over 1 million copies sold in English alone. Such a great read that I think every artist out there should get their hands on. “Do good work and share it with people.”

8. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens - This was a STUNNING book! So incredibly well written, and made you feel like you were there, in Kya’s beautiful world. It is a story of perseverance through extreme neglect, trauma, and solitude. A beautifully sad story that definitely made me weep. Trigger warning for SA.

9. Talk Triggers by Jay Baer and Daniel Lemin - This book was all about ways to get the most powerful and efficient marketing tool, word-of-mouth, to trigger. The types of talk triggers that can be utilized for business, and how to get it working for yours. It was good and I got a couple good points out of it, but I think it is best for larger corporations rather than small creative businesses.

10. Show Your Work by Austin Kleon - Another book that EVERY ARTIST NEEDS TO READ! Do good work, and the rest will come. This author, Austin Kleon, is so great at getting right to the point in both his writing and illustrations. For a visual learner, like myself, this is really helpful. Can’t recommend his trilogy enough, and so excited to hear him speak in May at our Summit!

Want to know what I read in January? Check out Rachel's January Reading List

Rachel's January Reading List

One of my biggest goals for this year is to read more. I have ADHD and have always struggled with reading. I would read a page while my mind wandered and then have to re-read the page again. I found that this was especially true when I was reading material that I did not enjoy, or really that I was not in the mood to read.

Well, I don’t know how I started doing this, probably out of just not wanting to read what I was currently reading that moment, but I started picking up more than one book at a time. Like, 8-12 books at a time. This might sound ludicrous, but it allowed me to pick up the book that I am in the mood for, and therefore can actually focus on what it is I am reading. IT HAS CHANGED MY READING GAME!

The other thing I implemented at the beginning of the year was starting a daily tracker to track my habits. I wanted to create better habits, and focus on my goals for the year, but again, struggled with keeping up with a tracker. I wrote about it in this blog post, but basically I hacked the system by putting my tracker next to a habit I already have: brushing my teeth. Now, I don’t miss any days of tracking my habits, and this has been an incredible encourager as well as accountability for the things I want to focus on this year.

So, in doing these two things, my read book count for the month of January more than doubled the normal number of books I read in a year!

Here is what I read, in the order I finished them, and my take on them:

1. Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal - A delightful read. Surprising and fun. Some erotic stories, and some humor. I’d recommend this one.

2. Yearbook by Seth Rogen - I listened to this one, and I am glad I did. Hearing it in Seth’s voice was great. A mischievous kid with some funny stories.

3. Love Warrior by Glennon Doyle - I LOVE Glennon! I think she is a great thinker of our time. I love her sensitivity, and her honesty. This is an autobiography and touches on love, religion, cheating, self-growth, and being your authentic self.

4. One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus - This was a fantastic story, the author had me convinced it was a true story. Clearly well researched, and well written. The concept: 1,000 white women are to live and bear children with Indigenous people of America in exchange for horses to help colonize them. Such an interesting read.

5. Regretting You by Colleen Hoover - I read almost all Colleen Hoover books in a day. They are really hard to put down. This was told from a mother and from a daughter’s perspectives. It is steamy, there is tension, and as always with Colleen Hoover books, twists and turns. Great and quick read.

6. It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover - This Romantic book does come with a domestic violence trigger warning. So much passion, tension, love, and fear in this novel. Could not put it down.

7. Emotionally Absent Mother by Jasmin Lee Cori MS LPC - I listened to this book. This is about relationships, and attachment styles. I have been doing a lot of therapeutic work, and this was a hard one for me, but necessary. If you have a difficult relationship with your Mother, I recommend this read.

8. Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover - Another great one from Colleen Hoover. Couldn’t put it down. Trigger warning for drug abuse, and neglect. It involves falling in love, trust, and heartache. Full of twists and turns. You really feel for the main characters.

9. Mother Hunger by Kelly McDaniel - Another book recommended by my therapist. It was healing for me to read this. Helped me to understand myself more, and validated my feelings.

10. Art of War by Sun Tzu - A very quick listen. It really is a book about the art of war, and yet the lessons in it can be used for almost anything you encounter in regular life. I bought this one in physical book form after listening to it.

11. Idiot by Laura Cleary - I listened to this lighthearted book. Trigger warning for domestic violence and addiction. It was just ok. It is an autobiography of Laura, a comedian and Tiktok star. It had good reviews, but I am not sure I would recommend it and don’t plan on reading her other book.

12. 4 Hr Workweek by Timothy Ferriss - EVERY ENTREPRENEUR SHOULD READ THIS BOOK. So many pages dog eared, and I fully plan on reading it again.

13. Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover - Another great one from Colleen Hoover. Couldn’t put it down. Trigger warning for drug abuse, and neglect. It involves falling in love, trust, and heartache. Full of twists and turns. You really feel for the main characters.

14. Tools of Titans by Timothy Ferriss - I listened to this 24 hour long book. It is interviews from Titans in different fields. Very interesting and gave me some great ideas. If you like hearing interviews, this is a good one. Took some really valuable things away from this as well as many book recommendations.

15. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield - Self-help book for the creative. It will help you break through blocks, win inner creative battles, and get rid of resistance. The author encourages you to lean in and get a little scared. Follow your passions and create for the sake of creating.

16. Essentialism by Greg McKeown - I love this author. I listened to this one. It is about eliminating the unnecessary, and focusing on the essential parts of life and business. Choosing choice. Highly recommend it.

WANT TO KNOW WHAT I READ IN February? CHECK OUT Rachel's February Reading List

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates

This book is a dream realized: a pyrography book of templates created by our community for the community.

This book of templates is a beautiful collection of designs for artists at all stages from our incredibly talented and diverse community.

The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates features pyrography design patterns created by the community for the community. It showcases 57 original templates from 34 wood burning artists from around the globe, with the intention of helping artists of all skill levels past, present, and future to hone their craft, try new styles, and make beautiful art through collaboration. This collection of designs include mandalas, florals, animals, nature pieces, frames, and more.

Check out #thewoodburncommunitybook on instagram to view completed projects!

Every one-of-a-kind piece of art you create from these community templates is a collaboration! Each design can be interpreted in an infinite number of ways.

The artists featured in the template book are below. Please click the links and give them a follow!

@woodburncorner

@RiverValleyPyro

@OdinaWoodArt

@prettyful.creations

@sweetpeachburns

@kraftinwithkate

@BlindLove.WoodBurning

@Rankie_Doodles

@knotsandembers

@squeakys_cauldron

@daniellesabroad

@finelinepyro

@The.Wandering.Pyro

@StingReaStudios

@BurnedByBri

@itsdavidandrenee

@Mysticwoodburns

@mosstangle

@mapleandfernco

@ArtByMahealani

@onecreativebee

@birchplease_creations

@Csharpcreations

@jaytref

@ThimbleWhim

@brandyroels

@ShinautDesignsLLC

@ReSaArtHouse

@Pyropaintpatterns

@SheMakes.Art

@iissalissa

@BurnedByRenee

@Calisanja

@bonidutch

Rachel Strauss, author of The Wood Burn Book, founder of Burn Club and Wood Burn Corner, also includes a basic wood burning quickstart guide, and provides you with a list of essential materials needed for pyrography. She offers information on getting involved in the community, before presenting you with a feast of artwork, each begging to become your next creation!

Want more patterns?

Check out all the TEMPLATE books or VISIT the templates store full of individual patterns for sale

Looking for Rachel’s first book; The Wood Burn Book?

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10 Pyrography Book Recommendations

There are so many pyrography books out there and it can be difficult to choose which to own. Well, lucky for you, I have gone through almost all of them (seriously, I own over 20 pyrography books!) and have picked out my top ten favorite pyrography books.

When I set out to write my book, The Wood Burn Book, I knew I wanted something that was different. My style of pyrography didn’t feel like the rest of the books out there. I wanted something that fit my style. Something that felt fresh, clean, modern, and jam packed full of the best information. I wanted something that involved our awesome community. I wanted to showcase the versatility of pyrography and the infinite number of ways you can use it. I wanted to give the reader all the information they need to create beautiful pieces of art from wood and burner to literal finish, and I am beyond proud of the finished product. The Wood Burn Book truly is an essential guide to pyrography, and I hope you pick yourself up a copy.

You should also check out The Wood Burn Community Book of Templates Series. This gem includes over 50 designs from 34 different pyrographers for you to practice your pyro skills with patterns you will actually enjoy burning!

While The Wood Burn Book is my favorite pyrography book, I also have many others that I think are fabulous for people wanting to learn this craft. Introducing my list of Top Ten Pyrography Books. *These are Amazon Affiliate links, and they will take you directly to Amazon where you can purchase them

Top 10 Pyrography Books:

1. The Wood Burn Book - Rachel Strauss

2. Drawing with Fire - Aney Carver

3. Yearn to Burn - Simon Easton

4. Art and Craft of Pyrography - Lora S. Irish

5. Woodburning Realistic Animals - Minisa Robinson

6. Pyrography Workbook a Complete Guide - Sue Walters

7. Learn to Burn a Step by Step Guide - Simon Easton

8. Creative Woodburning - Bee Locke

9. WoodBurning Projects and Patterns For Beginners - Minisa Robinson

10. Big Book of Pyrography - Pyrography Magazine

If I could only choose 3, I would go with: The Wood Burn Book - Rachel Strauss, Creative Woodburning - Bee Locke and Woodburning Realistic Animals - Minisa Robinson but you really can’t go wrong with any of the books listed above.

12 Runner Ups:

1. Pyrography Basics - Lora S. Irish

2. Pyrography For Beginners - Derk Shaw 

3. The Pyrography Beginners Workbook - Clayton M. Rines

4. The Little Book of Pyrography - Lora S. Irish

5. Woodburning Realistic People - Jo Schwartz

6. Pyrography Patterns - Sue Walters

7. Woodburning Project and Pattern Treasury - Deborah Pompano

8. Landscape Pyrography Techniques and Projects - Lora S. Irish

9. Solid-Point Pyrogpraphy - Lisa Shackleton

10. Pyrography - 18 Step-by-step Projects to Make - Bob Neill

11. Great Book of Woodburning - Lora S. Irish

12. The Wood Burning Community Book of Templates - Rachel Strauss and Basia Chmielowiec

If you buy any books from these awesome authors, make sure to leave them a review, and happy burning!

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WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WOOD BURNING AND IMPROVE PYROGRAPHY SKILLS?

Grow with the community: Join Burn Club, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning (just scroll to the bottom)

Book Recommendations for Creative Businesses

Most of what I have learned in business has been through trial and error and through reading.

I think a lot of finding success has to do with mindset and habits. I read and listen to a lot of self-help books that I think will benefit me and/or my business. I enjoy the process of optimizing my life.

Here are a few of my personal favorites that have had the biggest impacts on me, my life, and my business. These are Amazon links, and I receive a small portion if you choose to purchase yourself a copy, and I HIGHLY recommend you do! These books are fantastic.

My top 12 Book Recommendations for Creative Businesses:

The 5-Second Rule - Mel Robbins

"The 5-Second Rule" by Mel Robbins offers a simple, actionable tool to combat procrastination and instigate change: counting backward from 5 to 1 to trigger action. The book combines personal anecdotes and scientific backing to show the rule's effectiveness in various life aspects. While some may find it too anecdotal, its core strength lies in its straightforward, motivational approach. It's a quick read that emphasizes immediate action to improve one’s life, making it a practical guide for those seeking to break the cycle of hesitation and fear.

Why I like it: It’s a super simple premise, but a really valuable tool. If you learn well with anecdotes, this book is for you.

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Unfu*k Yourself - Gary John Bishop

"Unfu*k Yourself" by Gary John Bishop is a straightforward self-help book that pushes readers to overcome self-imposed barriers and take charge of their lives. Through seven key assertions, Bishop advocates for personal accountability and action with a direct, no-nonsense tone. The book's strength lies in its clear, motivational message, although it may oversimplify complex personal development concepts. Overall, it's a compelling call to action for those ready to challenge their mindset and make significant changes.

Why I like it: Best listened to, because the author’s voice and tone is fantastic. A great book to cut through the BS. A good listen when you need a kick in the pants.

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Artists Way - Julia Cameron

"The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron is a guide to unlocking creativity through a 12-week program of exercises and self-exploration. Its core practices, morning pages, and artist's dates, aim to overcome creative blocks and nurture artistic expression. While its spiritual approach may not suit everyone, its widespread acclaim and effectiveness in fostering creativity make it a seminal work in personal development and artistic empowerment.

Why I like it: By far the book that has changed my life the most for the better. It is an intense 12 week course, really, and best done with creative friends, or friends who want to be more creative.

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You are a Badass - Jen Sincero

"You Are a Badass" by Jen Sincero is a self-help book that combines humor, personal anecdotes, and practical advice to inspire readers to improve their lives and achieve their goals. Sincero emphasizes self-love, financial acumen, and a positive mindset, urging readers to identify and overcome the limiting beliefs that hold them back. With a conversational and sometimes irreverent tone, the book aims to motivate and empower individuals to take control of their lives and pursue success. It's known for its straightforward, relatable guidance and empowering messages, making it popular among those looking for a boost of confidence and actionable strategies for personal development.

Why I like it: I love this author. She does a great job at giving you valuable information and simultaneously lights a fire. She will make you feel like a BOSS.

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You are a Badass at Making Money - Jen Sincero - Money and money talk is very taboo. Not many people talk about it, or the mindset of getting more of it. This book is a deep dive into money mindsets.

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Daring Greatly - Brené Brown - Anything by Brene Brown is going to be valuable for you as a person and for your business. This book is a must read.

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The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen R. Covey - Effective is the operative word here. I recommend a physical copy. You will want to take notes.

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The Gifts of Imperfection - Brené Brown - Another fantastic book by Brene Brown. This woman is a wealth of knowledge. She makes you think and uses real science to back up her claims. Also listen to her podcast, it’s so very good.

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Steal Like an Artist - Austin Kleon - Every creative person should read this book. It is a very quick read, but explains really well how there are no original ideas, and every artist steals from the world around them. 10/10 highly recommend.

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Contagious - Jonah Berger - OOOOOO. If you want to know why things catch on, or “go viral” this book explains the many marketing tools businesses can use to get their work in front of more eyes and have it be memorable. Sparked 2 big ideas for me while reading it.

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4-hour Workweek - Timothy Ferriss - I have more dog ears on this book than any other. If you want to work less, make more, and live your dream life, this guy takes it to the extreme, but offers so many valuable bits of information.

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Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion - Robert B. Cialdini - Another incredible book. This one is more about the psychology of marketing, and how to make it work for you. It’s brilliant.

I know these will have a positive impact on you. If you read any of them and you find it helps, I would love to hear about it.

What books do you recommend?? What do I need to add to my list?

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Want to learn more about wood burning and boost your creative business??

Grow with the community: Join Burn Club, a place where you can ask questions, and get the full answers, a place of fun and learning (just scroll to the bottom)

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The Wood Burn Book: Finishes Edit

I have been told over and over again that every first edition book will have mistakes. Well, this is ours. On page 52 of The Wood Burn Book, you will see this pretty board of finishes over colors and burn. This is to visually demonstrate how the color will react to that particular finish. Well, in the 1st edition printing of the book, the last 3 color option in the key are mislabeled. What you see here is correct, and it is already changed for the next printing.

This sort of thing unfortunately happens, and I can’t even begin to tell you how heart breaking it is for me. I originally wanted to be able to burn the names of the colors right into wood as I made it, but what I learned is that when a book is planning on being translated into multiple languages, the photos can’t have a lot of words in them. Fun fact: There is actually a list, called a “co-edition” list, that has acceptable words that are approved to use in a photograph. This made coming up with projects infinitely more difficult, because I could only use certain words. I wish I could share the “co-edition” list with you, because it is hilarious! Absolutely not what you would expect. There are even some names on the list that are acceptable to use, The one that I remember most was, Kylie. I thought that was so interesting. I was expecting John or Smith. The entire list was like that. I am so curious about how it was made and who chose the words.

Anyways…..

In the process of making the book, the designer takes all of my words, photos and direction and turns it into a book. I never met or spoke with my designer. I gave my edits to my editor, who gave them to the art director, who then gave them to the designer. You get the point. The entire Finishes section gave us a lot of trouble with formatting and last minute photo changes, and page rearranging, and unfortunately the mislabeling happened, and I didn’t spot it until after the books had already been physically printed. So…. you early buyers get a fun, limited edition, first printing! Like my spin on things?

Here are a couple fun ways that I have altered/edited my copies. Somehow, turning it into a doodle made me feel better about it. Feel free to send me a photo of your doodle edit, or post about it and tag me. I will send my favorite doodle an original art piece from the book before the end of the year.

Check out this blog post for more tips and tricks to finishing (or not finishing) your wood pieces.

The Wood Burn Book - Behind the Scenes

The making of The Wood Burn Book was not always so pretty. Let me tell you about one part of the book making process; the making of the cover.

The cover that I created for my book proposal, and my original title.

We had 3 photos shoots, and many brainstorming sessions, lots of mocked-up designs, and meetings specifically for the cover of the book. I didn’t realize how many eyes, how many opinions, all the different things that people think about when coming up with a book cover design. I had my vision, my aesthetic, and my desired look. I went to several book stores to look at different book covers, to see what stood out to me. I worked with a photographer and a product stylist who also had their aesthetic and preferences. My publishing house had many voices within it with differing opinions about what works, what sells, what gives the best glimpse into what the reader gets. There were multiple meetings specifically about the cover of my book. Then, there were surprising inserted opinions from buyers (think large retail stores) that had requests based on how they stock their shelves, and what their customers prefer to buy. I don’t know if you have heard the expression, “too many cooks in the kitchen,” but that was exactly what happened. The cover photo ended up being the very last thing to get done for the book, even though it was one of the first things we ever shot.

After much discussion, many rejected layouts by myself and them, and learning what my publisher wanted, plus what I wanted, plus what the buyers wanted, I sat down on the floor of my office, and laid out options for a cover. I took a photo, and then rearranged. Took another photo. Made adjustments. Took another photo. And another. And another. By the end, I had carpet burns on my knees, but I ended up with the layout for the cover of my book! Something we all could agree on. FINALLY!

At this point, Coronavirus had hit the United States, and my photography team could no longer safely shoot the cover, so I shipped off all of the pieces to my publisher’s in-house photographer to get the final shot.

I am pretty pleased with the final look, and was glad that I stood up for myself throughout the process. It was nice to be able to come up with a compromise that worked for everyone, even if the process was a bit painful.

The Wood Burn Book

I am beyond excited to share the cover of my book, The Wood Burn Book. Seriously, somebody pinch me.

Best Information Possible

The Wood Burn Book is the culmination of years of collecting information through trial and error, asking questions, reading books, and the community mind. In #thewoodburnbook I walk you through necessary tools, tool care, types of burners, types of nibs and their uses, safety, wood types, and wood alternatives. We go over the best transfer techniques, adding color with many different mediums, best finishes and their uses and everything is based on my personal research and what the community uses. I then walk the reader through many projects (with printable templates) that utilize the different ways to add color, textures, finishes, and on many different types of surfaces.

You can find it on Amazon Here or Internationally Here.

Collaboration

There are some INCREDIBLE guest artists that I was lucky enough to collaborate with to create unique wood burning projects for the readers to try. Beautiful pieces by @thepigeonletters @lettersbyshells @bobodesignstudio @jeshypark @electriceunice @allikdesign @brownpaperbunny @leslie.writes.it.all can be found in this book.

Community

Would this be a Wood Burn Corner book if it didn’t involve the community? I think not.

Throughout the book you will get direct, quoted, advice from many members of our #BurnClub community. I’m so excited for you Burn Clubbers to find your quotes in it! There are a lot of fantastic words of wisdom from them sprinkled throughout. You can really feel the sense of community that our Burn Club embraces in these quotes and their desire for everyone to be successful. It is the best.

The reason I wrote this book was to pass on as much good, to the point, information as I possibly could in a beautiful and fresh format. I wanted to give the reader fun, modern, and actually achievable ideas for wood burning projects. I wanted to create a beautiful forever book that could be utilized as a beginning wood burning artist, and referenced even as a pro.

You will see that I wrote about what I know know about. I touch on the topic of shading, but this is not the book to teach you how to create photo realistic art. This is the book that will help you reap all the benefits of wood burning by eliminating the frustrations that can come with not knowing what type of wood, burner, nib, color, or finish to use or how to use them. It is the book to help you troubleshoot, and improve. I strived to make an aesthetically pleasing, easy-to-follow, super informational book, and I really hope you like it.

If you can trace, you can burn.

I believe every household should own a wood burning tool because of its therapeutic qualities and my hope is that with the method I teach in this book that it will encourage people to pick up a burner and give it a try. With The Wood Burn Book and just the ability to follow a line, I believe anyone can wood burn successfully. I have seen it in person with the classes I teach, and I am so excited to see how many people pick it up and fall in love with wood burning like we all have.

I hope you love The Wood Burn Book, and help me spread the word.

Happy Burning,

Rachel

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Praise For The Wood Burn Book: An Essential Guide to the Art of Pyrography…

“The ultimate resource for wood burning from a fun artist! So many project ideas to expand anyone's craft skills. Rachel is an expert guide to this addictive, yet soothing medium.”

- Megan Colwell, The Travelling Woodburner (@happicamperkc)

“Rachel is a thought leader in the art of wood burning. Her modern aesthetic translates to beautiful, custom art and her unique ability to teach that art has led to a growing, thriving community within the space.”

- Morgan Spenla, The Crafter's Box

“Rachel has created a beautiful guide overflowing with information for those who want to learn the art of wood burning. I love the rich imagery and detailed instructions within each project. It makes me instantly want to pick up a burner and start creating. 
 
She has an incredible talent for creating projects that can entice anyone wanting to try this unique art form. Every project is gorgeously designed and crafted. There’s something for everyone from the beginner to the expert. I especially like the Kids art Keepsake project. It’s such an inventive way to turn your child’s memories into a keepsake. 
 
Rachel has written a must-get guide book for anyone considering pyrography…Read this book and learn from one of the best”

- Aney Carver, Owner of Pyrocrafters and author of "Drawing with FIre"

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Read more about what people are saying!

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