Demo Video: Accretion

Next in our series of demo videos is this one on accretion. Accretion is defined as “the process of growth or increase, typically by the gradual accumulation of additional layers or matter.” In encaustic, accretion refers to the technique of dry brushing layers of encaustic on top of one another to build texture, which can be done over a carved design or by accumulating texture from brushstrokes. This video offers a few pointers to help you build interesting textures on the surface of your painting.

Begin with a few base layers of encaustic medium or paint that have been fused. Make sure to get as much of the excess paint off your brush before applying it to the surface of your painting. Your brush should be somewhat “dry” during application. As you apply paint, brush on the thinnest possible layers. If you elect to fuse between layers for added stability, do so as lightly as possible to avoid melting your design.

Tip: A chip brush works even better than a hake brush because the bristles are uneven and coarser.

Colors used in this video include Alizarin Crimson, Warm Pink, and Dianthus Pink.

Enjoy! And keep painting.