Alcohol Inks A-Z: Health Hazards, Safety Precautions & Protection When Working with Alcohol Ink

[@peterking2651]

A fit test is easily done by the user. There are 2 test, inhalation & exhalation: 1. Inhalation, block both air filters and try to breathe in. If you can the mask is not functioning correctly or the mask is the wrong size. 2. Exhalation, block the exhalation port and attempt to breathe out, you should be unable to exhale. These test are performed by the military every time a respirator is used (the stuff we deal with is nastier than ink vapours). Another way to test the mask is with “Banana oil”

[@laurelfahlman5831]

Thank you for this video. It was really informative and thorough. I have recently become interested in alcohol inks, however I was pretty shocked after reading the tiny label on the bottles at how toxic they are! It is interesting how there are many many tutorial videos on how to use these inks and they RARELY mention the safety precautions. So thank you for taking the time to make this video, I hope more people using this medium pay attention to the SDS info!

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thanks so much for your kind words @laurelfahlman5831!

[@vickijones9310]

Thank you for putting this out there and especially for mentioning the dangers to pets!

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@Vicki Jones Thanks for your feedback...pets are definitely important too!

[@ivonnemistudio9433]

I also use a pair of old socks (toes cut out) over my wrist. One pair of gloves, then socks & a second pair on top.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

As long as you have nitrile gloves :)

[@janw5442]

Wow! Incredibly informative. It's very worrying how many people are using products without understanding any risk, and how to protect not only their own health, but that of those they love as well. Thank you for this video. Do you have any videos that cover varnish, paints, pouring mediums as well? I notice that many people are now using house paint in their work. Last night I remembered my mother's warning....do not sleep in a freshly painted room for at least 24 hrs, and keep windows open to allow fumes to exit.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@Janw5442 Thank you for your feedback! I haven't done this video as of yet, but I'm hoping to!

[@alycherry6459]

Wow this was so informative and so well put together! Thank you.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Alison Cherry Wow thanks so much for your kind words Alison! Feedback like this and being of service to the Alcohol Ink and Art Community is definitely why I do what I do!

[@creationsceecee]

thank you, Serena, for directing me to this well-presented and informative video. i will link it to mine so my viewers can see it too. just as a tip, the gloves i use are made of white nitrile and i get them at Costco. so you too can wear them when making your videos. once again, thank you.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Good to know CeeCee! I love Costco!

[@scottieable1111]

I have thought about alcohol ink safety since my first try with sharpie markers and a spray with 97% isopropyl alcohol. And again when pouring resin the first time. Thank you for all this clearly, well stated information. I’m on to buying new gloves and a respirator! Better safe than sorry.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thanks for your kind words @scottieable1111!

[@amyclear2778]

Wow, this is great information for someone like me who is just thinking about getting into this! Now I am wondering if I should not as it sounds really dangerous, especially with dogs around my home. You have me worried and a bit afraid of venturing into this!

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

My aim isn't to scare anyone. It is to educate so that people can make an informed decision about whether Alcohol Inks are for them :)

[@joansmith9386]

Well, I guess I’m going to send everything I’ve just purchased back. I had no idea alcohol inks were toxic. After seeing several tutorials without mention or gloves, I didn’t think a thing about it! I hate that. Thank you for the information.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@joansmith9386 Thank you for your comments :)

[@SherylWilliamsart]

Excellent presentation. Clear and Concise.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thanks Sheryl!

[@lazymom3518]

Thank you for this video! Very informative.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thank you for your comments @lazymom3518

[@janetfinkelstein7317]

Thankyou for your info on hazzards while working with alcohol inks. I will be cautious

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

You're very welcome Janet xoxo

[@KellieChasse]

Such a great video Serena, thanks for the mention!

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thanks for letting me use your mask video!

[@KellieChasse]

Anytime!

[@aleahlafio587]

Help (pls don’t attack me) I didn’t realize all the precautions about alcohol ink until I noticed how much fumes I’ve been inhaling and have been working inside my small apartment with my kitchen not too far away from me. Will I be okay and my apartment be okay after airing the place out?

[@mariettew-b9629]

Yes, however I suggest you invest in a good quality respirator with the appropriate filters.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@aleahlafio587 I would be very cautious with the limited ventilation and definitely wear a ventilator!

[@leannewagnerart]

Thank you for creating this video, it is very informational and important. I hope that you do not mind me sharing your video link with other crafters who are beginning their alcohol ink journey?

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@leannewagnerart Absolutely :)

[@christinenaylor4912]

I hope to be starting this venture as soon as we move home, (UK)I am leaving my beloved garden workroom behind, as our new place is a cottage and only has a yard, but I'm over coming that in buying a gazebo to stand under out in the fresh air, I have bought all the safety equipment and will still be using it even tho i'll be working outside :)

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@christinenaylor4912 Glad to hear you're looking after safety.

[@aliceinboulder]

This is a great video! Do you use eye protection? If so, goggles or safety glasses? I wear prescription eyeglasses, and, of course, there’s lots of space between them and my eyes.

[@melissaklefbeck1298]

I'd love to know the same thing. I loved your video. It was very helpful! Thank you.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@@melissaklefbeck1298 @aliceinboulder @Melissa Klefbeck I use nitrile gloves, a VOC filtered half-face mask and apron.

[@mariettew-b9629]

It's essential to ensure the very sensitive membranes of your eyes are protected as well. Your goggles must NOT be vented and also seal completely around the eye area.

[@bbbp65]

I found you to be very informative. Thanks for putting the information out there. I do have a question about the mask you have linked in your supply list. The Elipse mask has lots of good reviews regarding the fit. I’m wonder if you use different filters for it. I don’t see where the filters that come with the mask protect against VOC’s. Maybe I’m missing it but just wanted to check before I order one.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thank you for your comment. I did some more digging, and it turns out that this mask does NOT protect against "organic vapour", only "vapour". As such, I've removed the link to this mask on my website and replaced it with a link to a different half mask (and link to VOC filters for it) as well as added a link to a full mask that protects against VOC's (and link to VOC filters for it as well). I have also added a note in the video description advising that this mask does not protect against organic vapour. Again, thank you so much for your feedback and for bringing this to my attention.

[@bbbp65]

Serena Webber Studio I was hoping that there would be a different filter for this mask. It really does have good reviews and the price wasn’t too bad on amazon.ca. I will check out your new link. Thanks again for doing these videos. They are so helpful.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

I was hoping so too, and I’ll continue looking, but in the meantime I needed to be able to recommend something else to keep people safer. If I ever do come across VOC filters for this mask I’ll be sure to update my links with it.

[@judithf9297]

That’s a great video Serena. Where do we go to get fit tested for the mask? Thank you

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@Judith F I would consult with your local health center or health authority. Stores that sell safety equipment can be helpful as well :)

[@DarkMatterZine]

This is great, very informative thanks. Where do you find the safety data sheet? I looked on the Ranger website and can’t find it there for any product.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@DarkMatterZine Sometimes you have to contact the company directly :)

[@DarkMatterZine]

@@SerenaHannahStudio thanks

[@kristinakowalski6573]

Great job... all the above. I’m so messy

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Thanks @Kristina Kowalski! And me too haha!

[@phillippalack2844]

You never mentioned a fan with an exhaust tube going out a window. If this vent is on and placed beside your work, the fumes re directed through the tu e and through the window, aided by the power vent fan. Any comments on this?

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@phillippalack2844 I can't as I haven't used this system.

[@katiejol3313]

TYSM!!!!!

[@linalinux]

I´m curious if you know, after working with the inks, how long does it take for the fumes to go away? And, have you noticed any of your bottles leaking fumes when capped? :)

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

After almost 6 of years of using them it really depends on how much Isopropyl Alcohol you use, and also which brand. Certain brands linger much longer and I've taught classes where the smell was still noticeable after a 1 hour lunch break. Ventilation is very important in this medium regardless.

[@shashiprasad4446]

👌👌Ma’am

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@shashiprasad4446 Thank you!

[@devonsowl3979]

Do you have to wear a mask for the let’s resin alcohol inks it doesn’t have one of the sheets and it just says gloves and an apron

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@devonsowl3979 It depends on your health. Those with immune and respiratory disorders should always wear masks.

[@painting55]

I still see people getting the ink all over their hands, etc.

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

@painting55 Gloves are always recommended.

[@elbai.lopezrivera1934]

Hi... If you made alcohol ink with markers and 91% alcohol, its still harmful?

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Yes, especially since the alcohol has vapors and we don't know what effects long-term exposure has. Please use precautions.

[@elbai.lopezrivera1934]

@@SerenaHannahStudio I have sinusitis, this willaffect me badly? I live in Puerto Rico and we do all paintings with all doors and windows open and with fans. I don't use masks. If I want to dispose the alcohol ink how do I do it?

[@SerenaHannahStudio]

Unfortunately I'm not qualified to give specific medical advice - I highly recommend you see your doctor but I will say ALWAYS put your health first. Also, I always recommend a mask regardless of medical conditions or lack of. As far as disposing, you'll have to consult with local authorities as different countries have unique disposal rules surrounding chemicals. Not much help there, but I'd rather have you get correct advice from the right people than give out wrong information.

[@mariettew-b9629]

@@elbai.lopezrivera1934 alcohol ink will dry out when exposed to air.Do not put it into sinks or drains.