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Robert Sorby kindles pyrography flame in manufacturing deal

Premier woodworking tool maker Robert Sorby is to manufacture Peter Child’s Artist’s Pyrography Machine.

The agreement to make one of the UK’s most popular woodburning machines will harness Robert Sorby’s production expertise and increase the availability of a product in high demand.

Production will be relocated from the Essex-based tool retailer to Robert Sorby’s factory in Sheffield with new machines available towards the end of April. The machine will still bear the Peter Child name but will be marketed by Robert Sorby’s consumer operation Turners Retreat / Craft Supplies.

Pyrography, literally ‘fire science or fire writing’ from the Greek, is an increasingly popular hobby with woodworkers and crafters. Using simple and easy to learn techniques pyrographers can create beautifully textured patterns and pictures burnt into wood and other materials.

The machine’s reliability and ease of use make it a favourite among craft hobbyists and pyrography professionals.

Bob Neill, professional pyrographer and teacher said: “I have been using the Peter Child Artist’s Pyrography Machine for 40 years, it’s perfect for me and my students. I have used many other machines but this one does everything I need. The pen is slim and comfortable to use making it ideal for the finest detail work, while the machine’s variable control allows for excellent temperature regulation. It’s a robust and well-designed unit. I use it continuously and its durability is nothing short of amazing.”

Speaking of the move, Peter Child’s managing director, Roy Child said: “We’re very proud of the build quality of our machines. It’s one of the reasons our units are so popular. In fact some of our units have been used professionally and continuously for 20 years or more.

“I have every confidence that Robert Sorby will continue to build the machine to the same high standards. Its reputation for world class manufacturing excellence makes it the perfect company to handover the manufacturing process to.”

Robert Sorby’s managing director, Phil Proctor commented: “We’ve been looking at developing our interest in pyrography for some time and what better opportunity than to work with an old friend. Peter Child has been a Robert Sorby stockist for many years and our relationship has always been excellent. So when the opportunity presented itself it seemed like a logical step.”

Turners Retreat / Craft Supplies will soon be launching a new website that will feature its own pyrography microsite. A range of courses from entry level upwards is planned with some of the pyrography’s best known names delivering workshops and advice. Supporting this will be what promises to be one the largest collection of pyrography blanks and accessories in Europe.

Pictures attached.

Price: £109.75 INC VAT