The Good News About Encaustic

Encaustic is one of the most stable and archival art mediums:

• No fading: Colors remain vibrant indefinitely
• No cracking: Wax is flexible and won't crack like oil paint
• No oxidation: Wax doesn't yellow or darken with age
• Moisture-proof: Completely impervious to humidity
• Self-sealing: The wax surface naturally repels dust and dirt

Display Recommendations

Temperature

Safe range: Normal indoor temperatures (15-30°C / 59-86°F)

Avoid: Extreme heat above 50°C / 122°F

The melting point of encaustic wax is well above normal indoor temperatures. You would need to place it next to a fire or in a hot car in summer to cause any issues.

Light

Safe: Normal indoor lighting, including near windows

Avoid: Direct, intense sunlight for prolonged periods

While encaustic is UV-stable and won't fade, direct sunlight can heat the surface. A little sun is fine—just don't place it in a spot where it gets intense direct sunlight all day.

Humidity

Safe: Any normal indoor humidity level, including bathrooms and kitchens

Unlike watercolor or paper-based art, encaustic is completely moisture-proof. You can safely hang it in any room, including humid areas.

Best Locations

• Living rooms and bedrooms
• Hallways and entryways
• Offices and studies
• Bathrooms (yes, really!)
• Kitchens

Locations to Avoid

• Directly above heat sources (fireplaces, heaters, stoves)
• In unheated/uninsulated spaces with extreme temperature swings
• Outdoors (designed for indoor display only)

Cleaning Your Encaustic Art

Regular Maintenance

Encaustic naturally repels dust, but occasional cleaning may be needed:

Method:

1. Use a soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber works well)
2. Gently wipe the surface
3. That's it!

What NOT to Use

• No water: Never wet the surface
• No cleaning products: No soaps, sprays, or chemicals
• No abrasives: Nothing rough or scratchy
• No pressure: Don't scrub or apply force

Stubborn Marks

If something gets on the surface (fingerprint, smudge), breathe lightly on the spot to warm it slightly, then buff gently with a soft cloth. The natural heat from your breath helps restore the surface.

The Bloom Effect

Over time, you may notice a subtle white/cloudy appearance on the surface. This is called "bloom" and is completely natural and harmless.

What causes it: Natural wax crystallization in response to cold temperatures.

How to remove it:

1. Simply buff the surface with a soft cloth
2. The friction will warm the wax and restore the shine
3. Takes just a minute or two

Bloom is more common in cold seasons or air-conditioned rooms. It doesn't harm the artwork at all—think of it like a natural protective layer that can be easily buffed away.

Handling & Moving

Safe Handling

• Hold by the edges only
• Don't touch the wax surface
• Lift with both hands for larger pieces
• Don't stack artworks on top of each other

Moving House?

If you're moving, encaustic art is one of the easiest art forms to transport:

1. Wrap in acid-free paper or clean cotton sheet
2. Add bubble wrap or foam for protection
3. Place in a box with padding on all sides
4. Mark "FRAGILE - ARTWORK"
5. Keep in climate-controlled vehicle (don't leave in hot car)

Hanging Your Artwork

Single Panel Pieces

All single panel works come with D-rings or wire attached to the back, ready to hang.

You'll need:

• Picture hanging hooks or nails appropriate for the weight
• Level (recommended)
• Pencil for marking

Weight ranges:

• 30x42cm panels: ~0.5-1 kg
• 40x60cm panels: ~1-2 kg
• 60x90cm panels: ~2-4 kg

Triptychs (3-Panel Artworks)

Triptychs require a bit more planning but are straightforward to hang.

Recommended spacing: 1-2cm between panels

Step-by-step installation:

1. Measure your wall space: Make sure you have room for all three panels plus spacing
2. Find center point: Mark where the center of the triptych will be
3. Hang center panel first: This is your anchor point
4. Use level: Make sure center panel is perfectly level
5. Measure spacing: Measure 1-2cm from edge of center panel
6. Hang left panel: Align top edges with center panel
7. Hang right panel: Align top edges with center panel
8. Check alignment: Step back and check that all three panels are level and evenly spaced
9. Make micro-adjustments: Small tweaks to get everything perfect

Pro tip: Use painter's tape to mark the spacing on the wall before hanging hooks. This helps ensure even spacing.

Hanging on Different Wall Types

• Drywall/Plasterboard: Use picture hanging hooks rated for the weight
• Brick/Concrete: Use appropriate masonry anchors
• Picture Rail: Use S-hooks and wire

Long-Term Care

Encaustic requires virtually no maintenance beyond occasional dusting. You don't need to:

• Re-varnish (it's self-sealing)
• Re-frame (it doesn't need a frame)
• Worry about fading
• Worry about cracking
• Apply any treatments or products

Simply enjoy your artwork! It will look as beautiful in 50 years as it does today.

Damage & Repairs

Minor Surface Scratches

Small scratches can usually be buffed out with gentle heat (like a hair dryer on low, held at a distance) and soft cloth. If you're unsure, contact me before attempting.

Significant Damage

If your artwork is significantly damaged:

1. Take photos of the damage
2. Contact me at tanya@scorchingskiesart.com
3. I can advise on whether repair is possible
4. Many types of damage can be repaired by adding new wax layers