Theo Nash
Alcohol inks are gaining popularity due to their versatility, ease of use, and ability to create unique effects and transparencies. They can be used on various surfaces, including paper, card, canvas, glass, ceramic, and panels, with non-porous surfaces being ideal. However, safety precautions are essential when working with alcohol inks due to the risks associated with the evaporation of alcohol and toxic solvents. Artists should work in well-ventilated areas and wear protective gear, such as respirators, masks, gloves, and glasses. While alcohol inks can be used for creating art on mugs, dishes, and coasters, specific precautions and regulations regarding food safety and temperature limitations should be considered.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Toxicity | Alcohol inks are toxic and flammable. |
| Skin irritation | Alcohol inks can cause skin irritation and are difficult to remove from the skin. |
| Respiratory irritation | Alcohol inks produce invisible fumes, especially when heated, which can irritate the respiratory system. |
| Eye irritation | Fumes from alcohol inks can irritate the eyes. |
| Food safety | Alcohol inks are not food safe and should not be used on surfaces that come into contact with food or drink. |
| Ventilation | Alcohol inks should be used in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of fumes. |
| Personal protective equipment | A respirator mask and gloves should be worn when working with alcohol inks to protect against fumes and skin contact. |
| Surface compatibility | Alcohol inks can be used on various porous and non-porous surfaces such as wood, wax, paper, card, leather, fabric, clay, and more. |
| Drying time | Alcohol inks are fast-drying. |
| Sealing | Alcohol inks should be sealed with a water-based varnish to avoid reactivation. |
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What You'll Learn
Toxicity and flammability
Alcohol inks are toxic and flammable. The alcohol in alcohol inks is ethanol, an organic chemical compound. Once ethanol begins to evaporate, it becomes a volatile organic compound (VOC). The evaporation of the alcohol and toxic solvents is dangerous and should not be inhaled. Therefore, it is important to always use a respirator mask when working with alcohol inks and to ensure the mask has organic vapour filter cartridges. Some sources recommend a VOC respiratory mask, preferably a full-face one, to protect against the invisible fumes that are present, especially when heating the inks. Safety goggles are also recommended to protect the eyes from irritation.
Alcohol inks can also cause skin irritation, so it is advisable to wear gloves and an apron or separate set of clothes when working with them. They will also stain clothes permanently.
Alcohol inks are not food safe and should not be used on any surface that may come into contact with food or drink. However, they can be used to decorate items that will not come into direct contact with food or drink, such as the outside of mugs and glasses, or coasters.
Alcohol inks are highly flammable and should never be used near an open flame. They should always be used in a well-ventilated environment.
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Ventilation and respiratory protection
Always work in a well-ventilated area when using alcohol inks. Open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation, or consider working outdoors if weather conditions permit. Using a fan can also help improve airflow and disperse fumes. If possible, choose a workspace with adequate general ventilation, such as a spacious room or a well-ventilated art studio.
In addition to ventilation, wearing a respirator mask is imperative. Look for a VOC respiratory mask specifically designed to filter out organic compounds and toxic fumes. A full-face mask offers the most protection, shielding both your nose and mouth as well as your eyes from irritation. Alternatively, you can opt for a half-face mask combined with safety goggles to protect your eyes. Remember to change the filters on your mask regularly for optimal protection.
Taking breaks during extended periods of work can also help reduce your exposure to fumes. Step away from your workspace periodically to get some fresh air and give your body a rest. It is also advisable to store your alcohol inks in a well-ventilated area when not in use, ensuring the lids are securely tightened to prevent evaporation and the release of fumes.
Lastly, be mindful of others' safety. Keep your unfinished artwork out of reach of children, pets, and anyone who might accidentally touch it. Allow ample drying time, typically at least 24 hours, and consider sealing your artwork with a water-based varnish or fixative to prevent accidental reactivation of the inks.
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Skin and eye irritation
Alcohol inks are toxic and can cause skin and eye irritation. The alcohol in alcohol ink is ethanol, which is an organic, chemical compound. Once ethanol begins to evaporate, it becomes a volatile organic compound (VOC). The evaporation of the alcohol and toxic solvents, which makes them fast-drying, is dangerous. Therefore, it is important to always use a respirator mask when working with alcohol inks and ensure it has organic vapour filter cartridges. It is also recommended to get a VOC respiratory mask, preferably a full-face one, to protect against eye irritation. Alternatively, a half-face mask can be used with safety goggles.
As alcohol inks will colour almost any surface they come into contact with, it is important to wear an apron or separate set of clothes when working with them. They will also stain your skin and are difficult to remove. It is also important to note that alcohol inks are not food safe and should not be used on any surface that may come into direct contact with food or drink.
Before using any product, always refer to its safety data sheet (SDS). It will tell you if the products you are using are toxic and how to deal with them in case of ingestion or other accidents. If the product does not have an SDS attached, check the brand's website or contact them directly.
To ensure the safety of those around you, alcohol inks should never be used in a confined space unless there is very good ventilation. Some people also find the smell of alcohol inks unpleasant, so it is important to use them in a well-ventilated environment.
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Food safety
Alcohol inks are not food safe. Artists are advised to avoid using alcohol inks on surfaces that come into contact with food or drink. However, there are ways to circumvent this issue.
Alcohol inks are perfect for non-porous surfaces, such as glazed ceramics, china, and polymer clay. Artists can use alcohol inks to colour clay, for instance, but only up to a point, as the clay will eventually become sticky and impossible to work with. Alcohol inks are also suitable for ornamental glassware, such as the outside of mugs and glasses, or the handles of mugs. Artists can also use alcohol inks on coasters, as long as the part that comes into contact with the mouth is not painted.
Alcohol inks can be sealed with ArtResin, which has been deemed safe for direct contact with food by the Bureau Veritas and meets FDA regulations. However, ArtResin should not be used on items for hot beverages, as it has a maximum temperature of 120°F (50°C). Artists can also use Krylon Kamar Varnish, UV Spray, or a food-safe epoxy resin as a sealant, although some artists have reported issues with the sealant peeling off over time.
It is important to note that adding alcohol ink to ArtResin compromises its food safety, as alcohol is toxic and flammable. Artists should also be cautious when working with alcohol inks, as they can cause skin irritation and produce toxic fumes. It is recommended to wear protective gear, such as an apron, gloves, and a VOC respiratory mask, when working with alcohol inks.
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Sealing and varnishing
Before you begin the sealing and varnishing process, it is important to let your artwork dry completely. This can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the source. One source suggests that the artwork might feel dry to the touch sooner, but it is important to let the medium fully cure before introducing another medium to seal it.
When sealing alcohol ink artwork, it is recommended to use a varnish specifically designed for this purpose, such as Krylon Kamar Varnish, which is a popular choice among alcohol ink artists. It is important to note that many varnishes are alcohol-based and can reactivate the inks, potentially ruining your work. Therefore, it is suggested to use a water-based varnish or fixative instead. When applying the varnish, hold the can about 10-12 cm away from the artwork and spray in a light, continuous, and even motion to coat the entire surface. Allow the first coat to dry for about 1-2 hours, and then apply a second coat.
After the varnish has dried, you can add a UV protectant layer to protect your artwork from UV rays, which are the main cause of alcohol ink fading and breaking down over time. You can use a UV-resistant clear coating spray, such as Krylon UV-Resistant Spray, for this purpose. Follow the same application process as the varnish, applying two to three coats, and allowing each layer to dry for about 1-2 hours.
It is recommended to wear protective gear when working with alcohol inks and varnish, including gloves, a respirator mask, and safety goggles to avoid inhaling fumes and protect your eyes and skin.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcohol inks are toxic and safety precautions should be taken when using them. It is recommended to wear a respirator mask and gloves when working with alcohol inks, and to ensure that the area is well-ventilated.
Alcohol inks should not be used on surfaces that will touch food. However, some sources suggest that using a food-safe sealer or a top coat of resin over the alcohol ink painting can make it food-safe.
Yes, alcohol inks can be used on canvas. However, it is recommended to prime the canvas with three to four layers of Gesso to make it almost non-porous, as alcohol inks work best on non-porous surfaces.
