Using Encaustic Painting Irons

Encaustic painting is an ancient art form. It dates back to the Greco-Roman period, and was even mentioned in the writings of Pliney the Elder. During the mid 1900s encaustic painting techniques resurfaced enticing painters such as Jasper Johns, Diego Rivera and Robert Rauschenberg to try a hand at the centuries old painting technique. Encaustic painting is accomplished with the use of wax, pigments and a heating tool, such as an iron.

True Encaustic Irons

Encaustic painting irons come in a variety of sizes and styles. A true encaustic painting iron is typically small with an adjustable handle. The iron has an easily regulated temperature that prevents the wax from scorching or burning. Encaustic painting irons have a typical voltage of between 200 and 300 volts. Many of these irons can also be used as hotplates for melting wax in small containers. Encaustic painting irons cost between $25 and $35 depending on where they are purchased.

Travel Irons

Travel irons can be used to create encaustic art works as well. They are much smaller than standard irons so they are easier to handle. These irons are more comparable in size to a true encaustic painting iron than a standard iron. Travel irons also tend to have a consistent temperature, something imperative to creating encaustic works. Even heat prevents burning as well as prevents the wax from solidifying as it is used. It is important that a travel iron has a completely flat surface if it is going to be used for painting.

Standard Irons

Standard clothes irons can also be used for painting. These irons must be used with care since they can reach a wide range of temperatures. A standard iron should be set on the nylon setting when used for melting wax. There should be no steam holes on the iron's surface. Steam holes allow paint to seep into the iron's surface and prevent a smooth picture from appearing. Irons with steam holes are also really hard to get clean. Standard irons are ideal for painting a large canvas, wood board, or other large areas.

Caring for the Irons

The encaustic painting iron, travel iron, or standard iron are all easy to use and easy to care for. The irons should always be cleaned after each use and before they are stored. To clean the iron, simply wipe the warm surface with a paper towel. This removes any waxy residue left on the surface. If the iron has become worn and scratched, apply clear wax to its warm surface. Gently buff the surface with a paper towel, then wipe the iron with a clean paper towel to remove any leftover wax.