Video: reworking ink-painted ribbon

Many people have had questions about painting ribbons with alcohol inks, and I hope this video will provide some answers for you.

There are three videos here. Chapter I has an introduction and demonstrates a painting project in progress, when the ink is looking darker than desired. Chapter II is long, over 30 minutes; it contains demonstrations of reworking ribbons that were painted a long time ago and have dried unsatisfactorily. Chapter III includes results from both I and II.

White ribbon for painting can be found in my web shop HERE.

Importantly, I want to take this opportunity to make it clear that ink is distinct from dye in that its color sits on the material rather than becoming one with it, so to speak. It is important to rinse excess color from the ribbon as the final step, to prevent it rubbing off, but it will not become fast against actual washing, as dye will when set with heat or chemicals.

Why, then, use these inks if they can’t be made truly colorfast? Well it’s a good question. I started using them for silk cocoons used in jewelry. To steam set a cocoon is to end up with a pile of silk fibers instead, so I sought an alternative and was led to alcohol inks by the experts at Dharma Trading Company. These people know their stuff, and I strongly recommend a visit to their site if you have any interest in color on fiber.

Already familiar with the properties of these inks, I naturally turned to them when I acquired this cache of ribbon. The ribbon’s fiber content is uncertain, but probably a combination of rayon and/or nylon and polyester. Rayon would accept a direct dye, of the kind used to tie dye cotton shirts, but the other fiber might not, or if it did would do so differently. And vice-versa, acid dyes would color the nylon but not the rayon. The ability to achieve somewhat predictable results led me to try the inks, and I have been happy with the results. I have not recommended them for any project that would need actual washing. Jewelry is a safe bet. I rinse thoroughly to discharge excess ink, and a drop of water falling on an earring or brooch won’t affect it.

However, toiletries containing alcohol should be kept clear. Perfume is not advised if it will come into close contact, even if dried. Why take a chance with your hard work?

I hope you’ll find it interesting and helpful!