Methods For Creating Alcohol Ink Tiles

By Joshua Reynolds


For those individuals who are creatively inclined, there are so many different mediums that might me used to make wonderful products. Every one of them will possess a unique suitability range and set of characteristics. Making alcohol ink tiles with beautiful marbling effects using multiple colors could be a great project for those who love this look.

Some of the ways this medium varies from others of similar nature is that the pigmentation is concentrated, it dries fast, has forgiveness, and contains no acid. The colors have a real vibrancy, though they can be diluted to obtain a range of versatility to be utilized in multiple methods. It is intended to be used on non-porous surfaces because it has a tendency to seep into porous materials and look faded.

To get started, it is first necessary to gather the required materials as well as the optional ones to be used for embellishments. The non-porous ceramic surfaces are available in a multitude of size and shape combinations with finish selections of either matte or gloss. The details are completely left to the artist because the techniques may be adapted to fit practically any circumstances or formats.

The medium can be purchased in packs of three complementary colors, or as single bottles. Metallic additives which can create a luminous or polished finish, a blending solution, and customizing pigment for making unique tones, can help add versatility to the inks and enhance the final project. Additional tools needed for this project include a clear sealant, felt, compressed air, coffee straws, gloves, refillable makers, and stamping applicators.

The first technique involves applying just a few drops of the desired colors directly to the felt attached to the stamp applicator. Once loaded, lightly dab the surface with the pad, repeating as often as necessary to achieve the target coverage or pattern. Keep in mind that by its very nature, felt will likely leave loose fibers behind, though this is nothing to be concerned over as they can simply be brushed away when the medium dries.

A second option is to apply the inks directly to the ceramic surfaces in order to control how much color is used and exactly where it is placed. The splotches could then be mixed or blended using a gloved hand or finger, compressed air, straws, or the felt pad. Dropping a bit of blending solution will cause a beautiful dispersal pattern by diluting certain areas.

A third way of completing this project is to add a little medium to a bowl with water inside of it. The inks remain near the surface and as on dips their ceramics into the liquid, the colors will attach to the tile. This marbling affect has a slightly different look that is beautiful as is, or which may be altered as in the other two techniques.

Each technique's unique appearance can be changed by using compressed air or straws to blow the inks around, dabbing felt against it, diluting and dispersing it with blending solution, or adding details with markers. This medium is extremely forgiving, allowing one to wipe it off and reapply as often as one wishes. When the look is right, add up to three thin layers of clear sealant to protect it against fading or damage.




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