This course focuses entirely on working with images printed on tissue paper—exploring layering, translucency, subtlety, and how light moves through wax. It’s a course about nuance, restraint, and learning when to let the materials lead. This course is perfect if you want to add depth and sophistication to your work or are drawn to soft edges, texture, and atmosphere.
Embracing Tissue Paper
Tissue Paper Prints + Encaustic (Masterclass)
Open May 6 – June 17, 2026
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, this masterclass is one of the most expressive and versatile techniques in photo encaustic.
About the course
In Embracing Tissue Paper, internationally known artist Clare O’Neill shares her complete approach to printing photographs on tissue paper and embedding images into layers of hot beeswax. You’ll learn the techniques behind her signature process— including how she tiles multiple tissue paper prints together to create large-scale, visually rich encaustic works.
This online course offers rare, in-depth access to Clare’s working methods. You’re free to move through the material at a pace that fits your life and creative rhythm. Enrollment opens only twice a year with limited spaces, and all course content can be downloaded to your computer for lifetime access.
Included in the course:
• 6 modules featuring videos and resources
• Transcripts to follow along
• Immediate access
• Downloadable for lifetime access
• Private FB group to ask questions and get feedback
• Course price $197 (USD)
Do you long to create work that truly resonates with you?
Lessons
What you need to know about paper selection
You’ll learn how to confidently choose the right paper and understand what truly matters when making your selection. We’ll demystify terms like acid-free and buffered, explore paper properties and coatings, and look at how tissue paper behaves when embedded into encaustic.
How to Create Backgrounds that are amazing
You’ll explore a variety of approaches for creating compelling backgrounds for your tissue paper prints. This layered process builds depth and luminosity, showing how a strong background becomes the foundation for a visually rich and cohesive piece.
Selecting and Preparing your images
You’ll learn why image selection matters in this process and how to recognize which photographs translate best into encaustic. Clare will guide you through how she isolates and prepares images for successful embedding in wax.
Best practices for printing on tissue paper
You’ll learn exactly how to print your images on tissue paper for the best results. We’ll cover printer and ink considerations, along with practical tips to avoid drag marks, wrinkles, and crumpled paper when printing on tissue.
Tips and tricks for embedding tissue paper
You’ll learn proven techniques for embedding tissue so it becomes fully integrated into the work, not simply resting on the wax surface. We’ll cover how to eliminate air bubbles, soften or conceal edges, and thoughtfully embellish the image once it’s embedded.
Tiling Your images for working large
Tissue paper makes it possible to create large-scale work without the need for a large-format printer. You’ll learn how to divide a single photograph into multiple prints, align the sections, and seamlessly blend the joins so the image reads as one cohesive piece.
About Course Creator
Clare O’Neill is a professional photographer, accomplished photo encaustic artist, and dedicated educator. Her work centers on using photography as a catalyst for creative reawakening—helping artists expand their images through texture, layering, and process.
Through her online courses and in-person workshops, Clare offers thoughtful guidance, inspiration, and practical strategies to photographers around the world who want to deepen their artistic vision through the encaustic medium.
FAQ's
Will I be able to ask questions?
Yes. You’ll have access to a forum where you can ask questions during the course and beyond. You’ll always be able to reach out for clarification or guidance, whether enrollment is currently open or closed.
How much encaustic experience do I need?
You should have a basic understanding of encaustic techniques. This is not a beginner encaustic course, but rather a focused exploration of working with tissue paper within the encaustic medium.
Who is this class for?
This course is for artists who want to take their encaustic work to the next level. Working with tissue paper combines technical knowledge of photography and encaustic with an interest in layering, surface, and background development.
I’ve never had formal encaustic training. Can I still take this class?
Absolutely. Whether you’re self-taught or formally trained, this course can work for you. While it doesn’t cover foundational encaustic techniques, it walks through the tissue paper process from start to finish.
I’m not a photographer. Is this class suitable for me?
Yes. You don’t need formal photography training—just a love of making images and the ability to print them from a camera or phone. You’ll be guided through image selection, printing on tissue paper, and embedding images into encaustic.
What supplies will I need?
This is a mixed media course, so a variety of supplies are used. After registering, you’ll have access to a comprehensive downloadable materials list. As a masterclass, you’ll likely already have your preferred tools and color palette. Tissue paper is the primary additional material, and supplier recommendations are included.
When does the course start?
This is a self-paced course. All materials are available immediately after you register, allowing you to work through the content at a pace that suits your schedule.
Are the classes live? Do I need to be available at certain times?
No. All lessons are pre-recorded, so there are no required login times. You can access the course whenever it works best for you.
How long will I have access to the course?
You’ll have lifetime access to the materials once you download them to your computer. You’ll also be invited to join my Members Only Facebook group for continued connection and feedback. Enrollment opens twice a year, but the content is yours once downloaded.
Will I need high-speed internet?
Yes. A stable, high-speed internet connection is recommended for streaming and downloading videos.
How are payments handled?
Payments are securely processed through PayPal and can be made using either a PayPal account or a credit card.
What can I expect once I register?
You’ll receive a welcome email with immediate access to the classroom. Inside, you’ll find information on setting up your workspace, safety, materials, and an invitation to join the private Facebook community. Please note: login access is available during the enrollment period, so be sure to download all materials.
When will the course be offered again?
The Embracing Tissue Paper course is typically offered twice a year—once in winter and once in summer.
Still wondering if this course is right for you?
Feel free to email me at info@photoencaustic.com with any questions. I’m always happy to help you decide.
Are you ready to Add more visual interest to your Your Work?
Throughout the course, you’ll be invited to step beyond the familiar and explore new ways of working—adding layers of visual interest, diving deeper into your craft, and seeing your photography through a fresh lens. Working with tissue paper images encourages experimentation and curiosity, helping you find your groove and gently push past creative comfort zones.
By the end of the experience, you’ll have expanded your artistic expression, gained renewed confidence, and created work that feels more alive, intentional, and distinctly your own.
Course is Currently Closed.
Lifetime Access
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Cost - $197
Enrollment opens twice a year.
