Alcohol Ink
Recently I took Tim Holtz’ Creative Chemistry 103 Online Class. One topic is using alcohol ink on yupo. Here are a few new tips I learned:
Safety: Alcohol ink is flammable-keep away from open flames. Blending solution is formulated with a resin which helps it to dry quickly and adhere to the surface. Unfortunately this means blending solution could be dangerous if inhaled. Ranger Inks provides a warning against using it in a mister. Rubbing alcohol does not contain a resin and therefore is less dangerous for use in a mister (but still use with caution). Blending felt or foam should be thrown away after they are used because they are flammable.
Yupo is a manufactured polypropylene surface which inks will not penetrate and either side can be used or both sides for special projects. It provides a sensitive surface for vibrant alcohol inks. To soften the colors blending solution can be added with a blending felt or splashed on or dropped on. A light touch of felt with the blending tool will result in smaller dots.
Techniques: stamped resist; texture resist uses an embossing folder; faded layers (uses stencils), painting with alcohol inks, create landscapes by drinking straw thru AI, making flowers by using canned air to make petals.