I like to mark the projects I build with one of those branding irons you heat with a propane torch. But if you don’t hold the iron squarely and with steady pressure, the design won’t burn evenly in the wood.
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I like to mark the projects I build with one of those branding irons you heat with a propane torch. But if you don't hold the iron squarely and with steady pressure, the design won't burn evenly in the wood.

Instead of freehanding the iron, I fasten mine to a 12 " hex bolt by way of a scrapwood adaptor and two hose clamps. After heating the iron, I chuck the bolt into the drill press and use the quill lever to drive the iron straight down to the workpiece.
—Richard Laakaniemi, Cedar Grove, Wis.