Encaustic painting, also known as hot wax painting, involves using heated beeswax to which colored pigments are added. An encaustic wax mixture is usually applied to a prepared wood panel. The simplest encaustic mixture can be made from adding
pigments to beeswax, but there are several other recipes that can be used containing other types of waxes, damar resin, or linseed oil. The technique I employ powdered pigments mixed in wax painted onto the panel. I will also add layers of oil pastel and waxed colored pencils to create the desired image. Metal tools and brushes are used to shape the paint and adjust the colors before it cools. Heated metal tools are used to manipulate the wax once it has cooled onto the surface. Tools such as hot plates, heat guns, and tack irons apply heat to extend the painting time.
