1. Enlarge the pattern to a desired size using a photocopier.

2. Lightly sand the surface of the timber and wipe back with damp cloth. Position the design on the timber and tape it down lightly either side.

3. Slip a piece of old, used carbon paper under the design and, using an old pen or stylus, trace the outline of the kookaburra and any other basic lines. Remove the paper and touch up your design with pencil if you wish.

4. Insert nib, tighten screws and heat machine.

5. Test the heat and adjust the temperature if necessary. Holding the nib of the pen at a 90-degree angle with the timber, burn the outlines, including the border and light shading areas using the edge of the nib. You will achieve the best results by pulling the pen gently towards you along this sharp edge, not across the flat surface of the nib. There is no need to use great pressure; be patient and let the heat do the work. Since wood grain varies, you'll find that burning between the grain is easier.

6. Refer to the photograph, turn the pen in your hand and use the flat surface of the nib to shade the rest of the picture. Beginning at the ends of the wing feathers, use soft feathery strokes, easing off the pressure before you finish a stroke. Shade the border in the same way.