More Process

So, more on the encaustic process.

I take bits of beeswax (below) and melt it with damar (resin or sap)......

Then pour the liquid through a strainer (to catch any stray resin bits) into silicone cups that are left to harden in the freezer.

The "cupcake" sized wax is then melted again in individual pots where I add color or leave it clear.

Here I am building layers on a piece. I normally put on a few layers of clear, then white before I start putting any color on.

Between each layer I "torch" the wax to adhere it to the previous layer. Sammy is not particulary happy with the torch usage in the house.

More later,


Karl

Building The Base

You can apply encaustic to different types of surfaces, for example canvas or wood. I prefer wood because of the stiffness if provides the wax, but it's really a personal preference. Luckily, I happen to enjoy working with wood, so I build my own supports or bases. Building my own supports allows me to use recycled wood as much as possible. It also gives me an excuse to use power tools.

This weekend, I built some larger supports to begin working on new pieces for a show in November. I'll tell you about the show as the date gets closer.

Here are some photo's in my shop (aka very small garage).

Later,

Karl