Modern Encaustic Art (E/A) takes different forms in methodology but recent years have seen the rapid growth of using modern technology. Instead of melting wax (usually beeswax) in pots and adding pigments, it is now common to buy blocks or sticks of wax with the pigments already added. Most now start by using a small iron, a specially designed version being best suited due to its reliable thermostat and general design. Other tools have been introduced, such as a Stylus, Scraper and Hotplates.

It is best to start with the iron, a starter set of wax blocks, and glossy white card. Normally, this card (glossy on both sides) is A6 in size at the beginning of the learning curve. In basic terms, the waxes are applied to the iron at a low heat sufficient to melt them and then "wiped" onto the card. No pressure is required! Different movements of the iron produce different effects. Placing the iron on the wax and lifting it will produce effects similar to coral or foliage. The edge of the iron produces lines. The tip can be used for small detail.

The Scraper is used to remove parts of the applied wax, to produce detail or emphasize parts of the picture. The Stylus has a variety of tips available, all of which serve to aid the production of fine detail, allowing drawing or painting. Hotplates are often used for larger pictures and there are hotplates which have been designed for E/A.

E/A can incorporate stamps, printed clip-art, collage, or many other extras. It is limited only by the vision of the artist. No artistic training is needed and the greatest aspect of E/A is it being open to ALL! E/A is now used by card makers, fantasy artists, professional artists, and hobby artists and crafters around the world!

When you've learned enough for your own satisfaction, you can use surfaces such as watercolor paper, glass and canvas instead of card. There are no limits or rules that must be observed, though some basic concepts may enhance your pleasure and produce more eye-catching paintings.