My last encaustic video, in which I used a shellac burn technique to create layers of color in my paintings, has become the most popular video on my youtube channel.  So, I thought I’d feed all of you hungry pyromaniacs and post another one!  (Also, I’ve added an overview on encaustic painting, essential tools, and awesome tips to my Encaustic page, if you are a beginner and need help getting started.)

This time, I created a few mini encaustic paintings, using the same techniques, and the outcome was so amazing!

Disclaimer- I apparently forgot to take pictures of one of the mini’s, which I can’t rectify since it’s been sold.  Sorry!  But these close up shots show the texture and final look that the shellac burn technique brings to encaustic, and I love it so much.  Such a cool effect!!

Just a few reminders when working with these mediums-

• Always fuse between each layer of wax.  That means each time you add a layer of wax to the surface (whether it’s wood, canvas, or something else) always use your heat gun and heat up the wax so it fuses to the layer below it.  It doesn’t take much- just enough to make the surface a bit shiny so you can tell the wax is starting to melt.  That’s it!
• Be very careful when you do the shellac burn.  Always do this step outside, and always make sure there is nothing flammable anywhere near where you are.
• I have been using the spray, but you can also use shellac from a can so you can paint it onto certain parts rather than the whole piece.
• Use a paper towel to daub the surface after you burn, to absorb as much of the sticky shellac residue as possible.

Mini Encaustic Paintings after the Shellac Burn

The subtle effects in these mini encaustic paintings are perfectly delightful.  Have you tried this technique?  If you have, please share yours in the comments!  I would love to see them!