Arielle Cruz
Alcohol ink blending solutions are made of isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, and other added ingredients. It is used to dilute and blend alcohol inks, as well as to clean up spills. The solution helps to keep the inks bright and vivid and slows their drying time. Artists can make their own blending solutions at home by combining rubbing alcohol with a few drops of liquid glycerin. Glycerin is an organic compound derived from animal fat and vegetable oil, and it slows the drying period of the inks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main use | To help move inks around on the page or medium being used |
| Other uses | Diluting, lightening, blending, rewetting, and removing alcohol ink from slick surfaces, art tools, and hands |
| Main ingredient | Alcohol |
| Other ingredients | Glycerine, other chemicals that thicken it and create a fluid transport system |
| Pros | Cheaper than isopropyl alcohol; smooth; gives soft transition lines |
| Cons | May not dry as quickly as isopropyl alcohol |
| Other names | Clear blender |
| Precautions | Flammable; do not use isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle |
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What You'll Learn
Isopropyl alcohol vs blending solution
When working with alcohol inks, a blending solution is a must-have tool for its ability to blend and dilute colours. It typically has alcohol as its base, along with other chemicals that thicken it and create a fluid transport system that matches the intense pigmentation of alcohol inks.
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol or surgical spirits, is a cheaper alternative to blending solutions. It can be purchased inexpensively from drug stores, usually for a dollar, and is available in varying percentages. It is essential for diluting alcohol inks and can be used to create custom blended colours. However, isopropyl alcohol evaporates very quickly, which can be a disadvantage as it may evaporate too soon, leaving harder lines of evaporation.
Blending solutions, on the other hand, have additives that give them a silky texture, making them less harsh as they move around. This allows for softer transition lines and more control over the blending process.
Both isopropyl alcohol and blending solutions can be used to rewet old ink on waterproof paper. However, blending solutions are better suited for creating controlled lines in alcohol ink that is already on the page. This is because isopropyl alcohol dries faster, creating a rushing effect on the remaining inks.
When it comes to blending alcohol inks, artists may use blending pens loaded with isopropyl alcohol or blending solution. These pens help to control the blending process and create gradients in the design. Additionally, homemade blending solutions can be created by adding a few drops of glycerin to isopropyl alcohol. However, this approach may result in a globby texture that some artists may not prefer.
In conclusion, while isopropyl alcohol is a more affordable and accessible option, blending solutions offer more control and smoother transitions when working with alcohol inks. Artists can choose between the two based on their specific needs, preferences, and the desired effects they want to achieve.
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Glycerine as an additive
Glycerine, also known as glycerol, is an additive used in blending solutions for alcohol inks. It is an organic compound commonly derived from animal fats and vegetable oils. Glycerine is a clear, odourless, sweet-tasting liquid at room temperature. While it is typically used in soap and pharmaceuticals, it can also be added to blending solutions for alcohol inks.
When creating a blending solution, glycerine is combined with isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol. The glycerine slows down the drying time of the ink, allowing artists more time to work with the medium. It also enhances the bleeding effect between different inks, creating smooth transitions and unique colour blends.
The amount of glycerine added to the blending solution can vary depending on the desired effect. Some artists recommend experimenting with different ratios to find the ideal combination for specific projects. However, it is important to note that too much glycerine can result in a globby or grainy texture, so it should be used sparingly.
Glycerine can be easily sourced from online retailers, drugstores, or art supply stores. When purchasing glycerine, it is recommended to look for vegetable glycerine, as it tends to be of better quality than the more commonly available alternatives. This additive is an excellent tool for artists working with alcohol inks, providing more control over the drying time and facilitating the creation of seamless colour blends.
By incorporating glycerine into their blending solutions, artists can explore new possibilities with alcohol inks, pushing the boundaries of their creative endeavours. The additive's ability to slow drying time and enhance colour blending makes it a valuable component of the alcohol ink art process. Ultimately, glycerine empowers artists to manipulate their medium with precision and achieve their desired aesthetic outcomes.
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Blending solution as a cleaning agent
Blending solutions are a must-have tool when working with alcohol inks. They are used to dilute, lighten, blend, rewet, and remove alcohol ink from various surfaces, tools, and hands.
The blending solution is made up of isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, and other added ingredients. It is a clear liquid that helps to create smooth transitions between colours, giving artists more control over their work. The solution slows the drying time of the ink, allowing for more intricate work and detail.
The solution can be purchased or made at home. When making a blending solution, glycerine is often added to alcohol. Glycerine is an organic compound, known formally as glycerol, and is commonly sourced from animal fat and vegetable oil. It is a clear, odourless liquid with a sweet taste. It is inexpensive and readily available in drug stores, Walmart, and online. The amount of glycerine added to the solution can vary, with some recipes calling for a few drops, while others recommend a ratio of 6.76 drops to 3.38 fluid ounces.
The blending solution is not just a useful tool for creating art; it is also handy for cleaning up afterwards. Its ability to remove alcohol ink from various surfaces and tools makes it an effective cleaning agent. It is important to note that blending solutions are flammable, so they should be kept away from fire or heat sources.
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Blending solution for diluting and lightening
Blending solutions are a must-have tool for alcohol inks. They are used to dilute, lighten, blend, rewet, and remove alcohol ink from various surfaces, art tools, and hands.
A blending solution is made of isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol or surgical spirits, and other added ingredients. Isopropyl alcohol is available at most drug stores and is relatively inexpensive. When using isopropyl alcohol for blending, it is recommended to use one with 90% or more rubbing alcohol.
Glycerin, an organic compound derived from animal fat or vegetable oil, can also be added to isopropyl alcohol to create a blending solution. Glycerin slows down the drying time and enhances the bleeding effect between inks. However, some artists have reported that using glycerin can result in a globby texture.
Some artists opt to use plain alcohol for blending instead of a blending solution, as it can achieve similar results at a lower cost. However, others find that blending solutions offer better workability and a superior finish.
Overall, blending solutions provide artists with more possibilities when working with alcohol inks, allowing them to dilute and lighten their inks, create soft transition lines, and achieve unique effects and designs.
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Homemade vs store-bought blending solution
Blending solutions are a must-have tool when working with alcohol inks. They are used for blending, diluting, lightening, and rewetting alcohol inks, as well as cleaning up spills and removing ink from surfaces, art tools, and hands. While blending solutions can be purchased from craft stores or online, some people prefer to make their own at home.
Store-bought blending solutions typically come in bottles with precision applicator tips, making it easy to apply the solution directly to the desired area. They are specially formulated to work with alcohol inks and can create beautiful shades of colour. These solutions are also useful for thinning alcohol inks and extending the working time for blending colours. Some popular brands include Ranger Adirondack, Pixiss, and T-Rex Inks.
On the other hand, some artists choose to make their own blending solutions at home. This can be done by combining isopropyl alcohol (also known as rubbing alcohol) with a few drops of liquid glycerin. Glycerin is an organic compound derived from animal fat or vegetable oil and can be found in drug stores or online. It helps to slow the drying time and enhance the bleeding effect between the inks being blended.
The advantage of making your own blending solution is that you can experiment with different ratios to achieve the desired effect. However, some people have found that using glycerin can result in a globby texture, and it may not work as well as store-bought solutions. Additionally, there are safety concerns when mixing industrial chemicals, so it is important to have the appropriate knowledge, equipment, and work area if attempting to create your own solution.
Ultimately, the decision between using a homemade or store-bought blending solution depends on personal preference and comfort level with the ingredients and process. Both options can be effective for blending alcohol inks, but it is important to consider factors such as convenience, cost, and desired results when making a choice.
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Frequently asked questions
A blending solution for alcohol inks typically has alcohol as its base, with a concentration of between 91% and 99.9%. It also contains a blend of other chemicals that thicken it and create a fluid transport system that is perfectly matched to alcohol inks’ intense pigmentation. One such chemical is glycerine, which is an organic compound known more formally as glycerol. Its common sources are animal fat and vegetable oil.
Glycerine slows the drying period and enhances the bleeding effect between the two inks that you're blending.
Isopropyl alcohol evaporates very quickly, which can be a pro or a con. The additives in the blending solution give it a silky body that is less harsh as it moves around than isopropyl alcohol. With the blending solution, you can get soft transition lines, whereas with isopropyl alcohol, you will have to race against harder lines of evaporation.
