How to Make Wax Sculptures

This sculptor painted over his wax sculpture.

Sculpting wax is often an artist's choice material to produce sturdy sculptures and figurines, since it can be easily hand-molded or cast in a mold. Once it is dried or cast in a mold, wax tends to keep its figure for a long time. A finished wax figure can also be cast in bronze, gold or other material to make it last even longer.

Things You'll Need

• Wax
• Casting mold
• Plastic cutting board
• Electric frying kettle
• Rubber gloves
• Face mask
• Knife

Instructions

1. Consider the kind of wax you will be using. Brown sculpting wax, called Victory Brown, is a favorite for sculptors, as it can be molded by hand when warmed or for casting in molds. Victory Amber is a softer wax that may be preferable if you're in a cold or unheated studio. Hard waxes, such as Sierra Red, maintain their shape better when casting in molds.

2. Thoroughly rinse off any plastic molds you plan to use. Use an electric frying kettle to warm up or melt the wax just under 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Wear rubber gloves and a face mask before pouring out the wax. Pour the melted wax into your cast mold. Stir until the wax is evenly coated. Leave the wax to thoroughly harden in the mold.

3. Use a sharp knife to whittle away the molding lines and excess wax. Also use the knife to make any lines or refinements in your sculpture.

4. Pour hot wax onto a durable plastic cutting board if you are using your hands instead of a casting mold. Do not handle wax when it is too hot, wait until it gets warm. If it gets too cool to handle, warm it back up again with your hands or a hot, blow dryer. Use a knife to sculpt the figure further.

References

• Cartage: Sculpting in Wax
• Hollywood Wax Museum: How to Make a Wax Figure
• The Compleat Sculptor: Micro-Crystalline Waxes