[Woodcarver] dremel brushes, transfering drawings , text onto wood, etc.

[aliceleorabriggs at comcast.net]

Thank you all so much for responding to my questions about tools. It's very helpful for this novice. I am anxiouis to check out the wood burning system you mentioned , I am also very interested in how to check brushes. Though I am aware of their existence...I am ashamed to say that I don't have any idea where to look for them, let alone determine whether they need replacing. Another question...is it a bad idea to go on a carving binge for 4 or more hours straight or is this abusive to  rotary tools? Should I sit on my hands periodically and ponder the wonders of wood grain for awhile in order to avoid overheating them? 

In an effort to be worth the trouble, I will share a transfer technique that may be of use to some of you. After completing a drawing, take it to your local copy center and make a "mirror image" copy in  the desired size. Place the copy face down on the wood and tape it in place along the edges. Even though the tape is on the back side of the image, make sure it does not overlap any of the image area. Place a small amout of spot remover on a soft cloth, then rub it over the back of the copy paper. I then use a printmaker's baren, but any means to apply even pressure to the back of the copy will work. It will take some practice, but you will be able to transfer extremely detailed drawings in this manner. Too much spot remover will cause the copy ink to run, resulting in a rather large, but sandable smudge. Too little spot remover will result in a faint or incomplete transfer. I use a product called "Goof Off "(available in the US, but also possibly in Canada). Citrisol concentrate also works very well. Not all spot removers work though, so it may require some trial and error if the above mentioned products are not available in your area. Be sure to use latex or rubber gloves and work in a well ventilated area. Computer generated text can be transferred in this manner as well. 
Thanks again to all who answered my tool queries. Alice Leora Briggs.
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