Gamblin Cold Wax Medium

What is Cold Wax Medium?
Gamblin Cold Wax Medium is a versatile oil painting medium made from natural beeswax, Gamsol, and a small amount of alkyd resin. Unlike encaustic painting, Cold Wax Painting requires no heat—the medium dries through solvent evaporation, leaving a matte, dense wax surface similar in texture to a beeswax candle.

Why Artists Choose Cold Wax Medium
Cold Wax Medium is ideal for artists interested in texture, experimentation, and the physicality of paint layers. It adds body and “shortness” to oil colours, allowing:

• Expressive brushstrokes and impasto peaks

• Carving and sculpting with palette knives

• Use of experimental tools such as stencils, brayers, bubble wrap, and wire screens

• A beautiful translucent, matte finish reminiscent of encaustic painting

Working Properties

• Thickens oil colours and alkyd/oil paints while reducing gloss

• Retains sharp impasto peaks with clean breaks from brushes or knives

• Mixes easily with Gamsol for more fluid application

• Compatible with Galkyd mediums to adjust gloss, flexibility, and durability

Application Tips and Best Practices

• Mixing ratio: Up to 1/3 Cold Wax Medium with 2/3 oil paint is recommended. For higher wax content, mix with 25–50% Galkyd, Galkyd Gel, or Solvent-Free Gel for flexibility and reduced cracking.

• Supports: Use rigid panels such as wood or aluminium for stability. Panels with adhered fabric are also suitable. Stretched canvas may be used, but limit Cold Wax to 1/3 of the paint mixture unless combined with alkyd mediums.

• Stability: Cold Wax paintings remain stable at normal temperatures; avoid extreme heat during transport (melting point ~155°F / 68°C).

Key Features:

• Adds texture and body to oil and alkyd paints

• Matte finish with translucent, encaustic-like qualities

• Ideal for impasto, carving, and experimental techniques

• Compatible with Gamsol and Galkyd mediums

• No heat required; dries by solvent evaporation