When I was much, much younger, my parents took me to a craft market in Hermanus, where I got to make a candle. Over and over again, I dipped a piece of string alternately in coloured wax, then cold water. Slowly, the coloured layers formed a long (rather lopsided, I must admit) pyramid-shaped candle.

I really enjoyed the experience, and was so proud of this candle once it was finished. But when my parents took me back again the following year, sadly the stall was gone. So when I saw the title of this book, I was naturally excited at revisiting that fond memory. I had no idea of what awesome things awaited me, though…

Encaustic art. Wow. What a wonderful way with wax, indeed. You will need a little more than a piece of string – some basics are an encaustic iron (or a small travel iron), a hot tray, a hairdryer, a stylus, some tips and a couple of other tools. After that, though, you’ll be all set to make the most beautiful things – regardless of your level of experience.

The book shows you exactly what you’ll need, and how to decorate loads of different items like ceramic dishes, candleholders, tins and gift boxes. You’ll also learn how to carve candles, make all sorts of greeting cards and get striking effects on fabrics and tissue paper. And then, of course, there are the beautiful landscapes and abstracts you can try too.

But the thing I love most about this book is its distinctly local feel. The author makes good use of things that are noticeably South African, like ostrich eggs, guinea fowl feathers, indigenous leaves and sea shells. Most of her landscapes are inspired by local scenes too.

On a practical level, the book gives readers clear and easy instructions. And each project lists the different tools needed in a helpful “Requirements” box. As you can imagine, the pages are alive with colours and beautifully detailed photographs of each project.

This book is a definite winner, and one I’d recommend to anyone interested in experimenting with wax.

Reviewed by Cara Visser

Published by Metz Press