Encaustic medium is a blend of beeswax and crystallized natural damar (dried tree sap) resin. It is colored with oil paint or pigment. The word “encaustic“ derives from the Greek enkaustikos, to burn. It is an ancient technique with renewed interest due to improved materials. Each layer is fused with a butane torch or heat gun. Some artists even use an iron to fuse. The medium dries in a flash. It can be sculpted, scraped, incised and layered to give a sense of depth.

The added damar resin raises the melting point beyond just using beeswax. The melting point for encaustic medium is 160 ℉. I paint with it at 180 ℉ or more. It is melted in crockpots, on electric griddles, or on a heat palette. This is done in my well-ventilated studio.

It dries to a very hard finish which may be buffed gently with a soft cloth if a shiny surface is desired. (Use a soft piece of nylon.)

Handle the art as you would an oil painting: keep from extreme cold and heat. When transporting, do not leave the art in a hot car! When packing, protect the corners and cover the painting with glassine paper or wax paper to prevent direct contact of packing materials. Do not wrap in bubble wrap, as this could leave an imprint. See R&F’s instructions if you are shipping.