How to Get Started with Alcohol Ink — A Beginner's Guide
What is alcohol ink?
Alcohol ink is a vibrant, translucent dye medium that blends together in the most magical ways, creating stunning abstract artwork. Unlike watercolours, this medium uses alcohol instead of water as its solvent — which means the colours are incredibly vivid, dry quickly, and are water-resistant once dry.
It's one of the most enjoyable and accessible art forms around — and you need far less equipment than you might think to get started.
What do you need to get started?
1. Alcohol ink
We stock a great range of alcohol inks from several fantastic brands. Start with 3–5 colours that you find beautiful together. Many of our sets include starter collections that are perfect for beginners.
Brands available:
- Ranger Tim Holtz — One of the most popular brands, with a wonderful colour range.
- Copic — A high-quality Japanese brand.
2. Yupo paper or another smooth surface
Alcohol ink works best on a smooth, non-porous surface. Yupo paper is the most popular choice — it's a synthetic paper that allows the ink to flow and blend freely across the surface.
You can also use:
- Ceramic tiles (a great budget-friendly way to practise)
- Glass surfaces
- Plastic and polyester
3. Isopropyl alcohol (91% or 99%)
Isopropyl alcohol is used to blend, dilute, and move the ink across the surface. 91% or 99% isopropyl alcohol works best.
4. A dropper or pipette
For applying ink to the surface with greater precision.
5. An air blower or straw
For blowing the ink across the surface to create striking patterns.
Basic techniques — start here
Technique 1: Drop and Blow
Drop a few drops of alcohol ink onto your Yupo paper. Add a little isopropyl alcohol and blow the ink across the surface. The colours blend in the most wonderful ways!
Technique 2: Layering
Allow each layer to dry before adding the next. This builds depth and dimension in your artwork.
Technique 3: Alcohol Effects
Drop pure isopropyl alcohol onto dried ink. The alcohol pushes the ink aside and creates beautiful, organic shapes — often called "petals" or "blooms".
Common mistakes — and how to avoid them
- Too much ink at once — Start small and build up gradually.
- The wrong surface — Regular paper absorbs the ink. Use Yupo or another smooth, non-porous surface.
- Too little airflow — Use an air blower or straw to better control the movement of the ink.
- Forgetting to seal your work — Finished pieces need a protective varnish to preserve the colours.
Project ideas
- Abstract art — Frame your alcohol ink pieces and hang them on the wall.
- Jewellery — Paint onto resin pendants to create unique handmade jewellery.
- Cards and tags — Create handmade cards with a beautiful alcohol ink background.
- Ceramic tiles — Make gorgeous coasters or wall decorations.
Browse our alcohol ink range and start your creative journey. We also stock alcohol ink markers for those who prefer more control.
Also worth reading: Alcohol Ink — Instructions for Beginners and Ranger Alcohol Ink — Techniques and Tips.
Explore more guides and tutorials in our workshop.