Encaustic Brushes + R&F Handmade Paints

Finding the right brush for encaustic painting is key. We recommend working with natural-hair brushes – synthetic brushes are not able to sustain the temperatures necessary during the encaustic painting process. Encaustic brushes often have smoother bristles than chip brushes so wax can be applied evenly.

R&F Hake Brushes, 1 1/2”, 2 1/2”, 4”.

Below we take a look at the ideal brush for absorbing wax and laying down large washes of color - the hake brush.

HAKE BRUSHES

The name "hake" (pronounced Ha-keh) comes from a Japanese word for flat brushes originally used for sumi-e painting. The hake brush's ability to absorb liquid lends itself perfectly to absorbing wax.

R&F hake brushes feature a split shank with sewn in bristles for added durability. Each brush is made of soft goat hair, which won't scorch or melt. They come in 1 1/2", 2 1/2", or 4" widths. The larger 4" brush is often used for laying down large washes of encaustic medium and color.

For information on how to clean your brushes - click here, you'll also find a direct link to cleaning your brush with soy wax - here.