encaustic
Encaustic Paint, what is it?
Encaustic is an ancient painting method and Encaustic Paint is made by mixing beeswax with damar resin (tree sap) together with paint pigment. The paint is then melted, applied and fused to a substrate by the use of torch, heat gun or special iron. Other mediums can be mixed in or adhered to wax to create a multitude of interesting compositions. The wax is applied in thin layers with each layer requiring to be fused in. Many times the wax can be built up to create a dimensional or a relief style painting.
encaustic care
Could the wax melt?
Because Encaustic wax has damar resin in it, it is fairly stable and doesn’t start to melt until it reaches about 150°. That being said, a location out of direct sunlight or in a room that is temperature controlled, unlike one without any heat like that of a 3 season porch that could sustain freezing temps, is best. Extreme heat or humidity could cause the wax to become tacky and in extreme cold could cause it to crack.
The best location is in a controlled environment like that of any room that you live in.
What if the artwork looks hazy on the surface?
Encaustic wax paintings may become slightly hazy as the wax cures and hardens. This is natural and the term used is called “bloom”. This haze can easily be buffed away with a soft lint-free cloth. Be gentle when buffing so you do not scratch the surface of the wax. The wax bloom will lessen over time to the point where buffing will rarely be needed, if ever. It is best to buff a painting when it is at cool temperatures, such as, after it has been in an air conditioned room or in the early morning before the heat of a summer day.