FAQs

Encaustic Care

Encaustic paintings are largely self-sufficient and require minimal care, aside from daily maintenance. Encaustic paint is composed of pigment, beeswax, and natural tree resin; it melts at 200°F.  I would not recommend hanging it outside or in direct sunlight. The wax will start to get sticky at 98°F. That being said, encaustic paintings love a well-lit area. The light helps to bring out the different layers of color, letting the glow of the wax come alive.

An encaustic painting may develop a “bloom” as it cures / ages, and you may notice a cloudy layer on top of the painting. You can gently buff this off with a soft, lint-free cloth. A soft old 100% cotton tee shirt works well.
The wax WILL scratch, so be very careful when buffing. 

If you need to ship or package your painting, I would recommend wrapping the front of the painting in a layer of wax paper. This will ensure that nothing sticks to the painting surface if it encounters warm temperatures in transit or storage.

Can you hang your painting in a location with high humidity, such as a bathroom?
I’m not sure. I have a few test paintings going in different locations, and I hope to have an answer at the end of the year. If you are determined to hang your new encaustic in the bathroom, I recommend painting any bare or exposed wood to protect it from mold or mildew.