Monday 14 November 2016

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 method is adding felt to the bottom of the stamp applicator and applying only a couple drops of the chosen colors to the pad. The next step is to dab the ceramic piece repeatedly until the intended pattern and coverage are obtained. Do not be alarmed if felt strands are left embedded in the ink, as that is the nature of the material, because they can be easily removed once the medium is sufficiently dried.

Another option is dropping the colors directly onto the surface, which gives the artist control over exactly where they go and in what amount. They can be blended together using the stamp pad, a gloved hand, a straw, or compressed air. Adding one or more droplets of blending solution will dilute and disperse the hues, giving the item a very beautiful fracture effect.

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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