R&F Handmade Paints

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Encaustic Supports

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What is a Support?

A support is a structure on which the group or the paint layer of a painting is laid.

What are Recommended Supports?

Encaustic paint is best used on a rigid surface  that is absorbent and heat resistant.  Wood supports make great, stable panels.   A lightweight panel can be made from 1/4” luan plywood braced with a wooden frame in the back.  Heavier and sturdier panels are made from 3/4” plywood.

Stretched canvas is not recommended. Over time the rigid encaustic on the more flexible canvas will tend to crack as the canvas flexes with changes of temperature and humidity.  Also, the weight of the wax, if applied thickly, may cause the canvas to sink in the center.

2-Dimentional Examples
  • lauan;
  • untempered masonite;
  • plywood;
  • any rigid, absorbent and heat resistant material.
3-Dimensional
  • unglazed ceramics;
  • plaster;
  • wood;
  • sculpture;
  • paper pulp;
  • any rigid, absorbent and heat resistant material.