If you’re looking for a vibrant, unpredictable, and deeply satisfying art medium, alcohol inks might just be your new creative obsession. These highly pigmented, fast-drying inks blend and bloom in mesmerising ways, making them perfect for abstract art, fluid techniques, and mixed media. Whether you're a complete beginner or an artist exploring a new medium, this guide will help you get started with alcohol inks in the UK.
What are alcohol inks?
Alcohol inks are dye-based, highly pigmented inks that are suspended in isopropyl alcohol. Unlike watercolours or acrylics, they dry rapidly and create fluid, organic patterns that are impossible to replicate exactly. (And hard to touch up if you mess up!)
The unpredictable nature of the ink makes every piece unique, as colours blend, separate, and react in mesmerising ways. You can manipulate them using blending solutions, air, or even fire (for the more adventurous - but that’s too risky for me!).
What you Need to get Started
Alcohol Inks
Brands like Ranger, Pinata, and Octopus Fluids are widely available in the UK and Amazon.
You can find single colours or starter sets.
Blending Solution or Isopropyl Alcohol (90% or higher)
Helps the inks flow and blend beautifully.
You can buy isopropyl alcohol online and Amazon.
Non-Porous Surfaces
Yupo Paper – A synthetic, waterproof paper perfect for alcohol inks.
Ceramic Tiles – Great for home decor and easy to wipe if you make mistakes.
Glass or Metal – Gives an ultra-sleek effect.
Applicators and Tools
Air Blower or Straw – For moving the ink around.
Paintbrushes or Cotton Buds – To add details.
Gloves and Protective Clothing – Because alcohol ink stains everything!
Sealing Your Work
Alcohol ink dries quickly but is prone to fading. Use a UV-resistant spray like Krylon Kamar Varnish or a resin coating for long-lasting results. See my blog post How To Cure an Alcohol Ink Painting for tips on this one.
How to get Started Using Alcohol Inks
Prep Your Workspace
Work in a well-ventilated area. Alcohol inks have strong fumes.
Cover your table with plastic or a silicone mat to prevent stains.
Apply the Ink
Drop or pour your alcohol ink onto the surface.
Add blending solution to create soft edges and movement.
Manipulate the Ink
Use a straw or air blower to move the ink around.
Layer colours for depth, or use a brush for fine details.
Let It Dry
Alcohol ink dries fast, so work quickly.
If you’re not happy with a section, add more alcohol to reactivate it.
Seal and Protect
Once dry, seal your piece to protect it from fading.
Where to Buy Alcohol Inks in the UK
Amazon UK – Usually my go to, a great selection of inks, papers, and accessories.
Jackson’s Art – High-quality Yupo paper and other surfaces.
Hobbycraft – Stocks a range of alcohol ink sets.
Final Thoughts on Getting Started with Alcohol Inks - a beginners guide
Alcohol inks are all about embracing the unexpected, and that’s exactly why I love working with them. At Slick Oils, I use these vibrant, flowing inks to create striking abstract pieces that capture movement, depth, and emotion in ways no other medium can. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, the key is to experiment, let the ink do its thing, and enjoy the creative process.
I hope you enjoyed the read of this beginner’s guide to getting started with alcohol inks. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my latest work and blog posts at www.slickoilsart.com/blog, where I share behind-the-scenes looks at my paintings, tips on working with alcohol inks, and insights into my creative journey. I’d love to see what you create—so feel free to tag @slickoilsart on Insta and share your work!
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