How to Make an Encaustic Image Transfer Step-by-Step

Make an Encaustic Transfer

Last week, we made encaustic medium and paint. This week, I’m going to show you how to make an encaustic transfer.

If you have a toner-based copier or laser printer, you can transfer your image directly from the print. The toner will release into the wax when you burnish and fuse it.

Figure with Flowers. Encustic Transfer

If you’re using an inkjet printer as I do, the process is a little different. Inkjet ink won’t transfer the same way, so you’ll need to trace your image with a charcoal pencil and then transfer the charcoal drawing onto the wax surface.

Reclining Figure. Drawing

The figure I’m using in this painting comes from a life drawing class I took in the late 80s. It’s one of the few drawings I kept from that time, and I’ve continued to use it as a motif in other pieces over the years.

Flower Motif

The flower is another image I return to often. More recently, I used it on a decorative tissue box cover, and it’s found its way into several other works as well.

You’re welcome to use this image in your own artwork if you’d like.

Henri Matisse. Drawing

In the video, I mention a few artists who may have inspired this piece. If you’re interested in learning more about them, there’s plenty of information available online.

Paul Gauguin. Reclining Tahitian Women

I hope this video encourages you to spend some time in the studio this week.

Amedeo Modigliani. Reclining Nude.

Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you next Sunday.