Pinata Ink Tips & Techniques
Jacquard Pinata Colors are alcohol-based transparent, permanent art inks. They can be used on almost any surface and produce vibrant colors in most applications. The colors are sold in 1/2-oz. bottles, or 4-oz. tubs. The Jacquard Pinata company also produces extender and clean-up solution to be used with the inks.
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Painting
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You can use Pinata Colors to paint on any surface that's oil-free and clean. Because they're alcohol-based, Pinata Colors dry incredibly fast, so use a single drop at a time and apply with an inexpensive or old paint brush. Alcohol ink extenders such as those made by Jacquard Pinata can help slow down drying process and extend the working time of the inks. The Pinata Colors are indelible in water and must be lightened with denatured alcohol. They can be mixed like typical paints.
Stamping
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For stamping, use gum arabic to stamp the design and then apply Pinata Inks to color the area. Mix the gum arabic with water until it's thin enough to brush onto a rubber or metal stamp. Stamp the design, and then apply drops of Pinata Colors to fill in the stamped design. Allow to dry, and wash the gum arabic away with a damp towel.
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Sculpting
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Pinata Ink is used to color clay, in addition to painting on it with the inks. While translucent clay renders a brighter color, the inks mixed with white clay render a glossy pastel finish. Simply add 1 to 2 drops of Pinata Color to 1 to 2 square inches of clay and mix with your hands. Don't forget to wear latex gloves, or the ink will stain your hands.
Resists
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Resists are used with Pinata Color to create designs. Use gum arabic, wax or even crayons to draw a picture or form a design. Apply Pinata Ink using the dropper on the bottle or with a brush. After it dries, wash away gum arabic with a damp cloth, or use an iron on the reverse of the design to remove wax if desired.
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References
- Photo Credit Michael Blann/Digital Vision/Getty Images
