I took another Encaustics course this weekend and learned how to do...Phototransfer onto Wax.
1. heat wooden cradle
2. add layer of melted wax + resin, then fuse (x3-5 times-- want a very flat surface). Do not have to scrape or freeze between times. When apply, just make one stroke over one direction, then fuse. Let cool slightly before placing next wax layer.
3. Let cool a little before placing, face down, the image you are wanting to transfer. Remember writing needs to be mirrored or it will come out backwards. Image must be from a laser photocopier, printed onto thin paper (need toner to get things to adhere, ink jet will not work-- all the ink will just spread).
4. Burnish the upside-down picture with a wooden spoon.
5. Soak the back of the burnished paper with water-- gently rub off paper.
6. Dry with a hairdryer on low between soakings (will take about 3 soakings to get all paper off).
7. Lightly heat with heat gun so paper gets dissolved into wax, let cool, then coat with another layer of wax. Usually want two or three layers between each image to give dimension.
Other info:
1. Get metallic foil ends from a place which makes embossed wedding invitations (see detail on crow).
2. She used milk paints to colour the non-bleached wax rather than oils which she felt were toxic.
3. She said that the Demara Resin can give headaches if the place is not well ventilated.
4. For collage can paint (with watercolours) on the wooden board, or use crayones or pencil crayons.
5. When mounting collage, tack directly onto wooden cradle board with weld Bond glue or with medium. Wipe off excess glue as when heated this can be toxic. If it's behind a piece of paper though, it will stay OK.
6. Demarrra resin helps to harden, increase melting temperature and increase durability/ reduces bloom.
7. if use oil paints, let them dry out on a paper towel overnight beforehands. If using oil paints in incisions, let dry for a month or two so don't get moisture trapped in your painting.
