My complete Encaustic supply list
The Complete Encaustic Studio Supply List
As you progress beyond the beginner stage of setting up your studio and discover your passion for encaustic art, there are so many fun tools and supplies to consider. Below are my personal recommendations. Some of the links are affiliate, however all products are personally tested by me.
Paint: For a reliable choice, I prefer R&F Encaustic Medium in a 10-lb bag. They also makes beautiful paint colors in multiple sizes. Swan's Encaustic Medium is another excellent option with a slightly less yellow tint. Enkaustikos offers beautiful colors in smaller sizes and sets. R&F Pigment Sticks work well with encaustic due to their wax content. They have a really beautiful color line and they last a long time if you keep them sealed.
Palettes/Paint Containers: The Roland Hot Box stands out as my favorite palette, specifically designed for encaustic use and ideal for monotype printing. Alternatively, an electric griddle or skillet made of ceramic can be used. Square tins work well for paint storage, minimizing wasted space on the palette. larger bread tins are useful for larger amounts. I use them for clear and white.
Ventilation: I use a tabletop Vent-a-Fume that vents to a window. A window fan can serve as an alternative.
Brushes: This Natural-Hair Brush is my favorite. It comes in different sizes but I find the 2.5 to be the most versatile. Prior to initial use, applying painter's tape helps remove loose hairs. Avoid hake brushes with long handles, as they can make wax pots top-heavy and prone to tipping.
Substrates: These recommendations are the same as I would give for beginners. Quality is crucial here as cheap options can lead to air bubbles and cause frustration. Choose from watercolor paper, wood panel, or encausticbord. For monotypes, teabag paper works really nicely for holding wax and not falling apart. For wooden substrates I always start with at least one layer of Encaustic Gesso.
Fusing: My favorite torch is the Iwitani torch for its adjustable power and size. I use it with these fuel cans and it has a nice base. While a torch is essential, a heat gun is necessary for collaging and working with flammable materials. This snowboard iron also works well for fusing and also provides a unique texture. Additionally, a tiny tacking iron is handy for small jobs.
Media compatible with Encaustic: Explore Stabillo colored pastel pencils, Caran D’ache Neocolor II Crayons, Graphite Sticks, Colored Graphite Blocks, Charcoal & Pan-pastels for mark-making and color.
Miscellaneous Supplies: Essential favorites include an extra large silicone mat for safety and wax reuse, pottery carving tools for scraping and cleanup, vinyl gloves, and shop towels without textured patterns.
Monoprinting Supplies: This tissue paper is wonderful for monoprinting and is archival. The Catalyst Wedge is great for moving wax around on the palette and lifting the edge of the paper to remove. A metal eyedropper is also handy for monoprinting with wax.
Art Fair/Market Supplies: I made envelopes/sleeves out of this insulation to be able to safely and easily transport my larger pieces to shows and markets. It’s not inexpensive but I can use the sleeves over and over and it saves me a lot of time and mental energy before shows. This tape worked well with it and it comes with velcro to use at the sleeve opening.
