Do you know about Fractal burning? It is a woodworking technique that has become popular due to resin casting, as the resin is often poured into the burn marks as a filler. Especially popular with amateur woodworkers making charcuterie boards.
The “fractal burning” technique creates lightning-like burn marks by using jumper cables and disassembled microwave oven parts to run high-voltage electricity through a piece of wood soaked in a chemical solution.
Fractal burning is a pyrographic technique that is created by the burning of wood which creates branching tree-like patterns into the surface of your wood.
According to the American wood workers association, up to 33 people have now died trying to make these boards. I feel that in itself is enough reason NOT to try this.
Here is a video on fractal burning .
Please note: This video is not associated with any deaths and is shown here as an example of the craft only. We 100% do not recommend making it.
Can fractal burning be done safely? If you are a qualified electrician… yes, if you are a DIY crafter playing with dangerous elements then no. When doing crafts we can generally SEE the danger, you can see a saw blade and axe, etc. With electricity you don’t see it coming, you have a false sense of security as the “danger” is invisible.
Want to make your own fractal chopping board? How about asking an electrical certified wood worker to make the base for you, then all you have to do is safely add the resin or seal the board. I believe this is the best and safest way to make your own fractal burning board without dying.
We have someone in my town that was killed a couple of years ago doing this craft. It is not worth it!
Why put this post on then? Someone is bound to try it !!