Ignite Your Creativity: Upcoming Encaustic Workshops & Retreats

Upcoming Encaustic Workshops: Let’s Play with Wax!

There’s something truly magical about encaustic art—it’s like painting and sculpting all at once, with a little bit of alchemy thrown in. Watching melted beeswax transform under heat, layering colors, and carving into the surface is both mesmerizing and addictive. It’s a medium that invites play, happy accidents, and those “aha!” moments when something unexpectedly beautiful emerges. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned artist, an encaustic workshop is the perfect way to dive into this world of wax, texture, and light.

Types of Encaustic Art Workshops

I’ve got a lineup of workshops designed to spark creativity and get your hands moving! Here’s what’s coming up:

What to Expect in an Encaustic Art Workshop

First things first—you don’t need any prior experience, just a willingness to explore and have fun. We’ll start with the basics, covering materials. Then, I’ll guide you through techniques like layering, embedding objects, and using heat tools to fuse everything together. Expect lots of hands-on experimentation, creative breakthroughs, and a friendly, supportive atmosphere. And yes, you’ll go home with your own encaustic artwork!

What Tools You'll Need in an Encaustic Art Workshop

My In-Person workshops include all the materials you need, and for my Cloth & Wax Online Class you can purchase an encaustic kit. Here are a few key tools that that you will be using in my encaustic workshops:

  • Encaustic Paints – Either ready-made or handmade with beeswax, damar resin, and pigments.

  • Heat Source – A heat gun, blowtorch, or encaustic iron to work the wax.

  • Substrates – Wood panels or heavy sketchbook paper.

  • Brushes & Metal Tools – Natural bristle brushes and tools for carving and texture.

  • Collage Materials – Paper, fabric, or found objects for adding layers and meaning to your work.

If you’ve ever been curious about encaustics, there’s no better way to learn than by getting hands-on. These workshops are about more than just technique—they’re about creative play, discovery, and maybe even finding a new artistic obsession. I’d love to have you join me for an upcoming workshop—let’s melt some wax and make something amazing together!

For a FREE MATERIAL GUIDE for my Cloth & Wax Class, click the link below.

Alaina Enslen