Creative Alcohol Inks

Ashley Mahlberg of Ink Reel Studio is an abstract artist and graphic designer. Inspired by the Washington coast, Ashley’s work mimics organic forms, flow, and dynamic color palettes found in her everyday surroundings. Ashley licenses her work, shows her art in local commercial spaces, and has been a featured artist on The Crafter’s Box (thecraftersbox.com), where she taught alcohol ink techniques. See more of Ashley’s work on Instagram (@inkreel), inkreelstudio.com, and Etsy (InkReelArtStudio). She lives in Burlington, Washington.

Introduction
 
1 Essential Supplies
Alcohol Inks
Blending Liquids
Air Tools
Surfaces & Substrates
Other Supplies
Sealants
Setting Up a Workspace
Working Safely
 
2 Basic Techniques
Alcohol Ink Wash
Stippling to Create Blooms
Blending Metallic Mixatives
Spraying
Masking .
Lifting
Drawing over Washes
Stamping
Embossing Powder
Plastic Wrap
Adhesive Stencils
Adding Texture with a Catalyst
 
3 Inspiration, Color & Composition
Finding Inspiration
Color Basics
Color Schemes
Color Studies
Creating Compositions
 
4 Finishing Techniques
Sealing Your Work
Mounting Yupo Paper to Board
Applying Resin
Options for Framing
Creating Fine Art Prints
 
5 Alcohol Ink Projects
Alcohol Ink Painting on Yupo
Porcelain Picture Frame
Tree Silhouette & Night Sky Painting
Modern Ornament
Ocean-Inspired Textured Painting
Abstract Coasters
Mini Abstract Landscape
Crescent Moon Painting
Circle Painting
Geometric Painting
Custom Greeting Cards
Alcohol Ink Painting on Gessobord
 
Resources
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Index