The Secret Life of Alcohol Ink: 5 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know

You’re probably familiar with acrylics and oil paints, but you may not know much about alcohol inks. These pigments dissolved in alcohol are little liquid demons–and my current favorite medium for painting.

Here are five things to know to alcohol ink.

1. It’s Basically Liquid Drama

Alcohol ink isn’t just paint; it’s an emotional rollercoaster in liquid form.

Alcohol ink reacts to surfaces, air, and even its fellow inks, creating swirling, unpredictable patterns.

It’s like the soap opera of the art world—every drop has its own agenda, and sometimes they just won’t play nice with each other.

2. It’s a Commitment-Phobe

Alcohol ink doesn’t permanently bond to most surfaces unless sealed.

It’s great for non-porous surfaces like Yupo paper, glass, or ceramics, but without a topcoat, it’s ready to pack up and leave.

Think of it as the friend who crashes on your couch but refuses to pay rent unless you bribe them with varnish.

3. It Loves a Strong Drink

Isopropyl alcohol is its best friend (and enabler).

The higher the alcohol percentage, the better the ink spreads and blooms.

Alcohol ink takes ‘BYOB’ to a whole new level—just don’t try to mix it with the tequila in your cupboard.

Trust me, they’re not compatible.

4. It’s Kind of a Control Freak

Alcohol ink behaves differently depending on your tools and techniques.

Use air, brushes, or even straws to manipulate it.

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a magician, try blowing on wet alcohol ink. Just don’t blame me if your masterpiece looks like a colorful sneeze.

5. It’s Not Just for Paper

Alcohol ink works on surprising surfaces like tiles, glass, and even metal.

This versatility makes it perfect for coasters, jewelry, and wall art.

Basically, alcohol ink is like that one friend who can pull off anything—from sweatpants to a little black dress. Always fabulous.

Now that you know these fun facts, aren’t you itching to try your hand at alcohol ink? Warning: it’s as addictive as it is beautiful, so stock up on supplies and prepare to lose a few hours (or days) in its colorful chaos!