The steps involved in doing a project are many.
Be sure to work at the level of experience that you have,
so you don't become frustrated.  Simple outlined projects are great
to start with, and the shading will come once you learn the basics of handling your burning tool.

First of all, decide what the subject will be. Then, ready your board (cutting and sanding).

Next, trace the outline of the pattern that you use.
(This may be an actual pattern, such as a tole painting
pattern, embroidery pattern, or even a coloring book page.
I like to use photographs; scanned, sized to my needs, and printed out.)

Using graphite transfer paper, I trace the basic outline,
marking any specific items that I think will take a "good eye" for, such as eyes, mouth, etc.

Then, it's ready to burn. I work on the areas that I think should be the darkest, and just
"fill in" with shadowing from there.

One of the hardest things to do with a project is... knowing when to quit!
You can work on it, and work on it, touching up areas, but remember...
it only takes ONE mistake to mean you'll end up with a nice looking piece of firewood!

Happy Burning!!!