[50] Answers to Some Common Alcohol Ink Art Painting Problems

This video is just to address, and demonstrate solutions for, some very common problems when learning to paint abstract alcohol ink art that I get questions about frequently. It mostly covers using an air source like a hair dryer and the correct way to get that soft, wispy look. I also touch on using photo paper and why you should always use the backside, not the glossy side. Hope it helps some of you who are having some of the issues mentioned in the video! Be sure to let me know what other issues you might be having that you would like me to address in a future video!
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***Amazon affiliate links to some of my frequently used and frequently asked about supplies***
*I have personally used each of the items in this list and have been very happy with them. I will never post a link to a product that I have not tried out myself and loved!
* Revlon 500 watt styling brush hair dryer w/ cool setting - amzn.to/2VVYMMM
* Grafix Dura-Bright white synthetic art paper 9"x12" (12 sheets) - amzn.to/3xOsBwa
* NARA 8" circle synthetic art paper (10 sheets) - amzn.to/3yK8y3f
* Foredom Speed Control Foot Pedal - amzn.to/3xOEYbD
* NARA 10" circle synthetic art paper (10 sheets) - amzn.to/37MBsno
* NARA 9x12 in. synthetic art paper (10 sheets) - amzn.to/3slo7w3
* NARA 11x14 in. synthetic art paper (10 sheets) - amzn.to/3m230xz
* Legion Yupo, 9x12 in. medium weight (10 sheets) - amzn.to/3k1ftix
* Legion Yupo, 11x14 in. medium weight (10 sheets) - amzn.to/3iO1wov
* 12"x12" Grafix Opaque White Craft Plastic (25 sheets) - amzn.to/3AMdYey
* Pinata by Jacquard Exciter Pack (9 colors) - amzn.to/3COgymj
* Pinata Brass by Jacquard metallic alcohol ink (4 oz.) - amzn.to/3k1mcZJ
3 pk. Ranger alcohol inks (eggplant, cranberry, & lettuce) - amzn.to/33HrbV6
3 pk. Ranger alcohol inks (slate, currant, & meadow) - amzn.to/2Ls0zBb
3 pk. Ranger alcohol inks (wild plum, butterscotch, & stream) - amzn.to/30fVyC6
24 pc. Ranger by Tim Holtz alcohol ink set - amzn.to/2X3vwR0
* 99% isopropyl alcohol (choice of 1 bottle or 12 bottles) - amzn.to/3yPgtfv
* Krylon Kamar Varnish - amzn.to/3CPPdzX
* Krylon UV Archival varnish (gloss) - amzn.to/3g3Zn6m
* Precision Tip Applicator Bottles 30 ml./1 oz. - amzn.to/3g6bekh
* Art Resin - 32 oz. kit - amzn.to/2XlZfbQ
* Molotow Liquid Chrome 30 ml refill - amzn.to/3AGUTur
Amazon Prime 30 day free trial - amzn.to/3m2zhVe
********************************************************************************************
My affiliate link to Arteza US - great place for acrylic paints, alcohol ink pens, canvases, and more!
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My affiliate link to Arteza UK - great place for acrylic paints, alcohol ink pens, canvases, and more!
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*As an affiliate I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, for certain purchases made through links that I list in my video descriptions or comments.

[@donnacarraway9182]

Thank you Lorrie! I actually can’t imagine a better video for what you presented!! Excellent job.. I don’t know if anyone will see this comment 4 or 5 years later, but I use a hairdryer like that but when you take the brush off of mine, there is still something sticking out that would prevent my dryer from getting close to the paper. It also doesn’t have a cool setting. So I need to shop for yours. Maybe the link will still work! You are so awesome and funny!! I was laughing out loud!! I’m a newbie to this but I like even ones that you didn’t seem to! Seemed that you are too hard on yourself but I understand that you know a lot and once you decide on something you seem to go for it. I love your story and working plan!! TYSM!💕💕💕💕Will look up more videos by you!! You are a great teacher!!

[@jenniferduncanstitt5407]

I think you’re pretty great and I’ve been teaching art for 18 years. I love the “stream of consciousness.” You’ve taught me a lot about this medium I’m new to.

[@blizzsynergy9067]

You like the negative space at the top because it feels lighter and the color area is perceived as weight. Having the negative space on the bottom makes the piece feel unsteady so it is not restful. Your work is beautiful and your tutorials are excellent! Thank you for all the information. If you have to use the hairdryer, instead of recording your voice while you while you paint, do a voice over. It's just a thought and I've no idea how to do a voice over. I image it's complex to set up and may cost $$. As you're offering videos for free, I wouldn't worry about the noise. I for one appreciate the time you take to put these out. Making videos takes a ton of effort and time. You are kind to make these. Thank you again. You've helped a LOT!

[@susanleitch1230]

You’re very humble and very generous on your sharing information, I really appreciate it. I’m still banging my head off my surface trying to work out how to do this. I can do a wisp (on a good day) but how to combine these sections and add in colours is still beyond me.

[@LorrieBrewer]

You can do it! It takes much more practice than people realize when they first start. It's a very tricky art form to learn, but as long as you keep at it, you'll get the hang of it. lol Some days I feel like its beyond me, so don't feel too bad about that! 💜💜

[@glenisblakiston5307]

I agree with your choice of negative space, I think it is so pleasing to see the negative space at the top left

[@oldraptorfarm]

Bless you Lorrie!! You are a natural teacher -- knowing how to communicate where the pitfalls are when we sense something is not right but don't know why. Love your videos and real time teaching.

[@LorrieBrewer]

oldraptorfarm 😊 Thank you for that wonderful compliment! For me, that is the hardest thing to manage with teaching this. I just know how to react when I sense something starting to happen, almost on instinct now, but it is very hard to articulate it to someone else lol. I am glad to hear that I am doing ok with that! 💜💜

[@ellym279]

I liked you showing the different ways to use the dryer. 💓

[@janetwhite7786]

Wow! Im learning to do this and wdve thought the shiny side was preferred . Thank you so much!

[@onyxxxyno]

Thanks, I'm just starting out, and I learned more from this video than the dozens of "professional" videos and websites I've looked at!

[@ink-aholicsartscrafts5634]

Lorrie - you're easily the best. Thanks so much.

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you so much! I really appreciate your support! 💜💜

[@halatmothership6969]

I lost my hairdryer when I redid my art room....I need to reorder today...Thank you Lorrie

[@LorrieBrewer]

I hope you were able to get one of these. They had been out of stock on Amazon, but are currently available again if you didn't find one. 💜💜

[@joannejensen5987]

Wish I could answer, but I have no personal experience, just been reading and looking and absorbing while I gather the various tools, inks, and all so I can watch tutorials as I begin to do. The alcohol inks are something I have longed to do for a long time, but life keeps barging in. Well, this enforced staying at home has been golden for doing or at least beginning, your dream. The freezer paper was a suggestion from someone, I know not who. I think you could mount it on cardboard, do the deed, and if you liked it, just leave it backed by the cardboard, Must tell you, I love your tutorials! I’m not yet a painter, but I have watched everything KZbin has to offer, and you are tops!

[@LorrieBrewer]

Joanne Jensen I would think that would help, just by keeping it from bending any. Make sure you seal with the Kamar varnish first, then the UV Archival spray if it’s one you want to keep so it won’t fade or rub off. I would test a small swatch of a painting you don’t want to keep. Seal it like you would a keeper then see if it starts to peel up. The only reason I wonder about this is because the sealant sprays will flake and peel off of the vinyl tablecloth I use as a drop cloth when sealing. I know it isn’t the same surface, but until that happened I didn’t even know they could peel off. I hope you love a.i. painting as much as I do once you get started! Just remember that it is harder than it looks when you first start. Don’t get frustrated and give up if it take you a little while to get the hang of it. Just keep practicing and you’ll have it down before you know it! 💜💜

[@britbrat4559]

You truely saved so many of my paintings with this video! Wow im blown away! My only wish is if the camera was closer to the painting..it was hard to see 😞 but the talking and tips were PERFECT! THANK U

[@LorrieBrewer]

Thank you so much for the lovely comment! I always love hearing that my tutorials are helping people. My problem with getting super closeups is that my hand and the dryer get in the way. I need to figure out an angle that will show things better, but just haven’t found one yet.

[@debbiethomas3687]

That was really interesting, thank you. I have so much to learn, but this medium is so beautiful I really want to practice and become good at it. I've never heard anyone explain the glossy side versus the matte side of photo paper before - it seems counter-intuitive because I'd expect the ink to run everywhere but when you explained why that didn't happen it was so obvious. I've only just started with alcohol inks, partly because I've run out of space for more paint pouring canvases, but the paint pouring taught me to look at everything from every angle. I feel exactly as you do about the position of the corner white space, but when you turned that one so the white space was bottom left as we see it, a rather elegant gold-outlined animal head appears about halfway up the slope *ears, eyes, nose) looking left - sort of caracal or ocelot type cat head on a solid neck.

[@tinavemb]

You’re definitely the ink whisperer 💕

[@LorrieBrewer]

Tina Vemb 😂 Oh heavens, I hope I didn’t start a new nickname 🤣! I probably shouldn’t have even said that lol. Thank you for the love! 💜💜

[@tinavemb]

Lorrie Brewer I love it 😘

[@lyndakowalke8858]

Lorrie, that was so helpfull - I loved your train of thought going through your head, it definatly helps. I would never have thought to use the reverse side of the photo papier, and yet, it is so obvious why to use it 🤭. I am getting up courage now, with little things to watch for that make big differences. I believe you completly when you say ink has its own way and you will loose the battle going against it. I think its good because you have to learn early to let go and go with the flow. I am learning so much from you before even starting, things that have takdmen ages for others to learn - you have done all thd hard work - although, there is still an increadable amount to it! Thank you so much 💕.

[@donnacarraway9182]

P.S. S. Sorry, as soon as I went to look at your other videos I saw some flowers!!💕

[@cathyputzier2701]

I want to thank you for the suggestion of the Revlon hair dryer. I have been working in alcohol inks for a while, using a heat gun, a air brush and a different type of hair dryer. Always being frustrated because It took so much work to not even get close to the results you get. I finally received mine last week and what a difference. I am so grateful that you shared this information with us. I am enjoying this process again. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

[@LorrieBrewer]

I am so glad you are getting good results with the dryer! Switching to that made all the difference for me, too, when I first started out. 😀💜

[@Val1950MAgirl]

This video really clears a lot up about alcohol inks and how to work it! Thank you!

[@PoshPaperPerfection]

thank you so much! I bought a revlon curling brush thinking it was the same and because of your awesome tutorial discovered it was 1200W. No wonder why I was having a hard time controlling my ink.😍

[@shellyireland910]

Thank you for this valuable video. Now I know my dryer is too fast and I haven't been positioning it right. Saves me a lot of time and money! Will practice this. Love your videos by the way. Much appreciated.

[@alyssanerney3486]

Your tutorials are fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing this information, I’ve been struggling with alcohol inks for 6+ months and I stumbled on video 19 and then this one and they’re both so helpful! I’ve been holding the hair dryer/brush thing too far away this whole time 😂🤦🏻‍♀️ and now that I know about putting the alcohol further out than the ink to make the wispy edges… it’s so obvious!! Listening to your stream of thoughts as you work through everything helps too! Culture happens when we share art and stories… so thanks! Thank you so much for sharing this information and not speeding up the video.

[@a.jonesartstudio1988]

You are wonderful at explaining all of this. Humble thanks to you! You know the kid that rips the box open and just starts playing without reading the directions? That's me. You just helped me figured out how to work my new toys.

[@LorrieBrewer]

😂 I can’t tell you much I love that comparison! One of my granddaughters is the exact same way about everything (ADHD), while I am the one who wants to understand everything before I start. Sometime I wish I were more like you and my granddaughter lol. 💜💜

[@a.jonesartstudio1988]

@@LorrieBrewer Yes, that is exactly what it can feel like! Eventually I always get around to deconstruction and learning every little nut and bolt, but I just must get the crash course out of the way. lolol. I suppose it helps to give a point of reference for those of us who are hands on types. Welp, time to go start using the matte side of my photo paper!! lolol 🤣

[@begwenly]

Omg not even 10 mins in and you helped me figure out what I’m doing wrong

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 I am so glad this video has helped you! It can be so frustrating learning to control the airflow and the inks. Feel free to ask me if you have problems that you can’t solve that I forget to put in these videos! 💜💜

[@timlouden5088]

Thank you very much I really needed that information on how to use the heat source! 👍🙏

[@LorrieBrewer]

I’m glad it was helpful to you!

[@artbylily]

Thanks so much Lorrie! You’re the best! 🌺 Because of your videos, I really am getting the hang of this new medium. 💗

[@LorrieBrewer]

💜 You are so welcome! I am glad they are helping you! 💜💜

[@gourdhead22]

Awesome video..Chalked full of info. And learning possibilities.. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. You are so talented an a very good teacher. I appreciate you.. hugs Sheryl White 🎨💙💙

[@LorrieBrewer]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for the wonderful comment! Those are the ones that keep me going 😊💜💜

[@glenisblakiston5307]

Amazing tutorial, this has solved my previous mistakes, thank you soooo much.I love your tutorials. Glenis.x

[@LorrieBrewer]

💜 I am so glad this helped you! Thank you so much for watching and taking the time to comment! 💜💜

[@debbiejohnston8492]

Thank you for explaining how you use the dryer. Going to try holding it closer as you suggest. I also tend to use too much ink so thanks for that tip as well. I personally do not mind you talking over the noise of the dryer as you are working and that might help to best describe why you're doing something a certain way.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Debbie Johnston 😃 You are not alone in those problems. Those are two of the most common mistakes everyone makes. I did the same thing myself when I was starting out. I would prefer to talk as I go in the videos because I do forget things that I wanted to be sure to mention. The couple of times I have done that I have gotten some complaints about the noise from the dryer though. I need to find a mic that helps block background noise and maybe that would help. It would cut my time to make a video in half, too lol. Thank you for watching and commenting! 💜💜

[@shaz8486]

Lorrie I found it impossible after over a year of searching to find a 500watt with a cool setting....couldn’t buy one from your link as your electrical plugs are different to ours in Australia...in the end someone on a fb group in Oz showed a Sassoon one but it’s 800 watts so I settled with it and slowly learning how to control the ink with it. But it has a cool setting!! 😁....sadly these days they are more and more powerful wattage. Even asked my hairdresser lol. It’s so frustrating at times in OZ not being able to get the supples you can get in the US.....Thanks again for all your helpful tips, it’s greatly appreciated! Stay safe and well Lorrie xoxo❤️❤️😘🎨🎨🖌🖌

[@LorrieBrewer]

Shaz 😃 I am glad you found one with a cool setting, at least! No one wants a low wattage dryer to actually dry their hair with lol. I told my husband that I should try to get with a company to make and market a dryer for alcohol inks that is low wattage and has a cool setting without high airflow, plus a low heat setting for the times you need that. If I knew anything about how to go about it I would lol. I mentioned it in your other comment, but I was glad to see you are still here and painting! Lol I notice when certain people haven’t commented in a while. I hope you are staying safe and well, also! 💜💜

[@shaz8486]

Yes we are safe and well....just haven’t had a lot of time to watch videos, and been finishing a watercolour painting of a turtle...it’s taken months ...some days can’t sit for too long painting so just depends on the old bones lol... but I still often watch you, I only watch a few AI artists ....you, Teresa, Vera, Lone ....maybe one other, but also watch other stuff not art related. If I’m painting while listening and watching I often forget to hit “like” or make a comment.....nana memory lol 😂😂😘💙💙💙 spent a day showings friend who is now addicted to AI and sent your video to her so she could get your tips. 😁😁🎨🎨🖌🖌 stay safe and take care xox

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 Glad to hear you are staying healthy and busy! I’m trying to figure out how I seem to have less time to paint and try new projects now than I did before the stay at home orders here lol. At least homeschool will be over for the summer soon. Maybe I’ll have a little more creative time then. Stay well! 💜💜😃

[@lindayoung1548]

I am brand new to this art and you answered so many questions I had. Now I'm excited to try again.

[@DeniseMcIntyre2016]

Terrific tute!! What NOT to do is so very helpful!!! Thank you!!!

[@lindaevans6814]

Much appreciated, I've not started but finding this has help go from a guaranteed fail to a possible success, I've only been watching you for a few days but love your work. Thank you x

[@carolinepurcell]

Lorrie, havent even started with alcohol inks. But soon. I have been bin watching your videos since yesterday. Cant wait to start. You are so informative, and I thank you. But what I really like is your personality, sincere, and down to earth.

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you so much for that lovely comment! Don’t forget that I am happy to try to answer your questions, although sometimes I get overwhelmed with messages and life in general and it can take me a few days to respond lol. Just don’t get frustrated as you start out. Learning to control the inks/alcohol can be a slower process than people realize. I’m here if you need help! 💜💜

[@estherfasen-vanrooijen5837]

This was so educational! As I watch every one of your video’s, I was already aware of the use of the heatsource, but you showing how to soften the build up of ink in the middle, that was something I was struggling with. Somehow it got stuck in my mind that I could only come in from the outside of the ink 🤔 So thank you one again dear Lorrie, for teaching me! Again 😃😃 Looking forward to the next one 💜💜

[@LorrieBrewer]

Esther Fasen- van Rooijen 💜 I am glad there is still something I can teach you so you don’t get bored with me lol. Just FYI, I still get stuck in that same mindset sometimes lol. I don’t know why, but I will forget occasionally that I just need to pull some ink out of the middle lol. 💜💜

[@LuckyLaqHer_Art]

This was very helpful. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge. 💘

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 I am so glad it was helpful to you! Thank you for taking the time to watch and to comment! 💜💜

[@dianaschumaker6847]

Wow, after watching your videos, I realize that I am using WAY too much ink. Thank you for all your videos!

[@LorrieBrewer]

That was one of my early problems, too. It helped me so much once I got my heavy handedness with the inks under control lol. That was when I finally started to get the softer, wispy results that I wanted. I hope you are seeing some softer results with yours now! 💜💜

[@CristinaArriolaart]

Thank you Your tips are very helpful much lovec 🌹🔥❤️♥️

[@jenclark7511]

Thanks SO much for this tutorial. Not even knowing how to open a bottle of ink yesterday (!) and trying my hand for the very first time, I used the WRONG side of the paper! Will try again today. I bought a Revlon hair brush but not the same as yours and had a big 'wand' in it that I couldn't remove. I've sawn it off! Only 200Watt so pretty useless at blowing but dries it okay. I have a very long way to go but loving your videos.

[@LorrieBrewer]

lol You sound so much like me with finding a way to get what I want out of something! I am so glad my videos are helping you learn this art form. I am very sorry it took me so long to respond to you. My life had gone crazy for a while this year! 💜💜

[@debisevans8081]

I am a newbie and this was so informative. Thank you.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Glad it was helpful! 😊💜

[@jillf24]

Most awesome video-I am a total newbie-only tried alcohol inks once-I used a straw and thought I was going to pass out-too hard to blow and turn the paper-LOL AND Everclear???? I had no idea what that was...hahahaha. drinking alcohol!! Loved it!!!!!

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 Thank you! Lol I know exactly what you mean about feeling like you are going to pass out. The ones where I just blow on the inks nearly do me in. I have to take quite a few breaks when I’m doing one like that. Hopefully everyone is beginning to be able to find isopropyl alcohol again now because the Everclear is nasty smelling stuff. The video I did showing that you could use it as a substitute is the only time I used it. I made hand sanitizer out of the rest of it lol. 💜💜

[@Hermesvenus09]

This is the best most clear, useful, comprehensive and helpful video. Thank you! Thank you! ✨❤️✨

[@LorrieBrewer]

I am so glad it was helpful to you! 😊💜💜

[@katz103]

Your tutorials are awesome. Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge!

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you so much! I am glad you are enjoying them! 💜💜

[@leoniestacey]

Hi Lorrie, thank you for all the super info - hopefully I will be able to absorb it all and put it to good use. Another great video.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Thank you, and you are welcome! It is a lot to try to remember and put into practice, but just hang in there and you'll get the hang of it. I still remember how frustrating it can be when you are starting out. I still get frustrated occasionally now lol. Just keep on practicing and you'll get it before you know it!

[@bushbosh]

You are the queen of alcohol ink

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you so much! I hope you got plenty of useful information from this video! 💜💜

[@the_starweaver_2024]

Thank you❤

[@birdiepareagle]

This explained a few things I've been struggling with so than you very much!!!

[@LorrieBrewer]

Carol Bilodeau 💜 I’m glad this has helped some! 😃💜

[@kimberlysarts6454]

Great video, and very helpful. I had actually bought that dryer, and thought it was way too strong of an air flow. I’ve been trying all sorts of dryers, my air brush, etc, etc. Thanks for all the info.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Glad it was helpful! It took me a little while to get used to the airflow on that dryer, but I don't think I could paint with a lower one now lol. Thanks for the comment! 😊💜

[@sandyferland8297]

Nothing short of fantastic! Thank you, thank you, Lorrie! Such a help.

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you so much! Hope you and yours are staying well! 💜💜

[@annettastlouis3303]

Omg you are just amazing .. my mistakes are just what you have shown .. learning a great deal

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 I am so glad this has helped you! Most people tend to struggle with the same exact problems, so you are not alone. The reason I know how to fix some of these problems is that I had them, too lol. Keep up the practice and you'll have it down before you know it! 💜💜

[@gingerard9321]

Thank you. You are so enjoyable and informative to watch.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Thank you so much! That is a lovely comment and I really appreciate it! 💜💜

[@carolbryant7050]

Thank you. This video is exactly what I needed.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Glad it was helpful! 💜😃 Thank you for commenting and letting me know. Lol I always wonder if people want this type of video some or not since I always end up getting more 👎 on these lol. I think some people don't like that I didn't do an actual painting. 💜💜

[@junethiel632]

Incredibly helpful, thank you - and FUN!!!

[@LorrieBrewer]

I am glad this video was helpful to you! Most people tend to run into the same issues, so I hoped to cover some of the questions I get asked the most. 💜💜

[@joannejensen5987]

Have you used freezer paper? It has many of the properties of photo paper, and it is, um, cheap! Maybe for practice? Thanks for this video. It is exceptionally helpful! I wish you a gallon of 99% for you troubles, if, that is, anybody has any!

[@LorrieBrewer]

Joanne Jensen Lol Well that is a lovely wish, especially these days! I haven’t used freezer paper, myself, but I know others who have and said they really liked it. My only concern (and keep in mind I know nothing about using freezer paper) would be how to keep the ink and varnish from cracking or flaking off. Since I haven’t worked with it any, I am not sure how well the varnish sprays adhere to it. I would post that question on one of the Facebook alcohol ink groups if you haven’t already figured out how to save the paintings that turn out good. If you have figured it out, let me know lol! Thank you so much for watching! 💜💜

[@lindadozier8055]

Thanks for your great tips. I really learned from this.

[@LorraineTapper]

This has been really helpful. Thank you.

[@kathleendouglas3179]

Thanks so much Lorrie! I learn so very much from your videos!! Going to try again with the wispies! 💗

[@LorrieBrewer]

You are so welcome! I hope you got some tips that are helping you with getting the inks to behave! 💜💜

[@nicolagerrans7365]

This video helped me have an ink breakthrough after weeks of BIG fails. Far from perfect but a step forward - thank you so much! x

[@LorrieBrewer]

Nicola Gerrans 🥰 Yay! I love hearing that! Now, just keep practicing and you’ll be turning out paintings you are in love with before you know it! 💜💜

[@nicolagerrans7365]

@@LorrieBrewer Thank you! The main issue I have now is beading, the ink swirls around beautifully for about 15 seconds, then stops and beads all over. Do you have any experience with that at all?

[@LorrieBrewer]

That beading comes from water in the alcohol, ink, and from the air. Some ink colors are worse than others to do that, too. That’s one reason 99% isopropyl is better to use, but you can still get the water beading with it, too. The water in the alcohol is why you don’t want to use anything below 91%. I wish I had a great solution for you with that, but there are times you are going to have some beading no matter what you do. I live in southeastern Washington state where it is very dry and arid with humidity levels frequently in the teens and I use 99% isopropyl, but I still get those sometimes. I have noticed that I seem to get them more often when I am using red shades, or one that would have a red used in it. What I do is keep a few pieces of paper towel handy to dab up the water beads. Sometimes you can put a little more alcohol down once the water beads are dry and smooth out the spots that were left. If you live in a super humid area then getting a dehumidifier for the room you paint in may be something you would want to look into if you are going to continue using alcohol inks long term. I wish I had some better advice for you on this problem, but I haven’t solved it yet lol. 💜💜

[@nicolagerrans7365]

@@LorrieBrewer thanks so much for your time, it's really kind of you. As you've said in one of your videos, there aren't many ink videos around so your advice is so appreciated. I class myself as quite an 'arty' person so it's been hugely frustrating not to pick this up quickly but with your help I've really made progress. I do now see that it's down to my alcohol, in the UK we have 'surgical spirit' instead of isopropyl and I've been using that. I'm in Cornwall in the UK, so coast all around us, plenty of sea breeze! Thank you again for talking so much time to help, I'll get sourcing some better alcohol and I'm now confident of some better results thanks to you 💜

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you again for the sweet comment! I know viewers in the UK can find the 91% and 99% alcohol. I’m just not sure where. That would be a good question to post on Facebook on the Alcohol Ink Techniques group or the Wispy Alcohol Ink Art group. Both have quite a few members from the UK. Most people in both groups are very kind about answering questions. I think you’ll see a big difference once you find some better isopropyl alcohol, even with the sea breeze! 💜💜💜

[@Preciouspaws1968]

I have used the glossy side and the trick to not seeing where you drop your ink is to have your blending solution down first... then drop your color. Mine turned out great. I wish there was a way to show you a pic.

[@diannagreen6613]

I would have used the glossy side of that paper and then become frustrated . I'm glad you told us

[@LorrieBrewer]

Dianna Green 😃 You are not alone in that! That was the whole reason I mentioned it. There are too many people who haven’t been told to only use the backside and are ready to give up because they can’t get it to work. 💜💜

[@GuiltyPleasure72]

Thanks lorrie.. You're the best. You have such a soothing demeanor. Im doing a mixed media project but need a break and got a few new colors so I think I'm gonna paint for a bit abs check them out.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Alli 😃 New colors always make for a good day of playing! It’s about time for me to order some 😃! Looking forward to seeing your new mixed media project! 💜💜

[@SallyVanNuysMixedMediaArtist]

Really helpful regarding the drying process...I just bought a airbrush so this will help for sure. TFS

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 I am glad you got some good tips from this. Remember the airbrush is going to have a much smaller air diameter than hairdryer so you will probably have to tweak the way you use it a little bit from the way I have shown to do it. I haven’t used an airbrush so I can’t even tell you anything about how much different they might be. I hope you can get great results from it, though! 💜💜

[@avasdogs]

Thank you Lorrie, You have helped me solve a few of my problems. Very good video.

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 Thank you! I am glad it gave you some solutions! 💜💜

[@darlafrazier8575]

Thank you Lorrie. Your tutorial was so helpful. Hopefully the fingers will be gone.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Those little fingers are the bane of my painting life lol. I don't know anyone who hasn't had trouble with them at times. I hope the tips in this video have helped you gain a little more control over that! 💜😊

[@angeladooly8511]

Great video! Looking forward to watching another.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Angela Dooly 💜 Thank you! And thank you for taking the time to watch and to comment! 💜💜

[@sojuiicy]

Thank you so much for the tips! It made a huge difference to my art. I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong to get the ink to wisp and curve

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 I am so glad this video helped you! Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment! 💜💜

[@sojuiicy]

@@LorrieBrewer Absolutely! Thank you for taking the time to create and share with us!

[@TJ-mu6ud]

This was very helpful! Thank you for sharing your tips & tricks!!!

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you for the kind comment! I’m glad you found some useful information in this! 💜

[@SharminSultanaMannan]

Thank you so much for this tutorial on air flow technique

[@LorrieBrewer]

Glad it was helpful! 😀

[@resin8love]

Omg! I really, REALLY wish I had seen this a couple of weeks ago. I’ve heard artists say what they are and where you can get them but never heard needs to be low wattage and a cool setting. I guess it may seem obvious but .... I didn’t think about it when buying mine 😩🙄😳🤪 so thank you for all your information ❣️🙏🏽

[@LorrieBrewer]

Lesley-sue Tydeman No, it’s absolutely not obvious until you look at it in hindsight, like most things lol. See my response to your comment on video [35] if you haven’t yet 😃. 💜💜

[@gretadesroches6830]

Thank you so much for this video. It was so helpful to a newbie.

[@LorrieBrewer]

I am so glad to hear it was helpful to you. Most people starting out tend to have many of the same problems so I was hoping to hit on some of the biggest ones with this video. 💜💜

[@coraanderson8415]

This was so very helpful! Thank you for doing this.

[@LorrieBrewer]

I am glad you found some helpful information in this! Most people tend to run into the same problems with this style of art, so hopefully this covered any issues you may have been running into. I am happy to try to answer any questions that you haven't been able to find answers to yet! 💜😊

[@tamsinclaire6128]

Thank you for this!! I’m still having so much trouble with the ink running across in streams. I’ve now managed to redirect it to the middle but I end up with a big squiggly blob in the middle.

[@fionaharrison9314]

This is great, will try that tip as I got one of those dryers and I feel like it blew everything away lol. I have finally cracked my inks open 😊

[@LorrieBrewer]

Fiona Harrison 💜 It’s a good time to stay in and create! Hope you and yours are staying healthy! 💜💜

[@susanmartin9124]

Very informative!

[@hghson]

Thank you Lorrie, that was so helpful.

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you! I hope you got plenty of good tips from this! 💜💜

[@TheMilliD]

Super helpful tutorial, thank you! I love your pieces and I'm off to play! :)

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you! I hope you got plenty of useful information from it. Let me know if you have any questions that I haven’t answered in a video. 💜💜

[@dotjeannelee1329]

This video was very very helpful. Thank you so much.

[@LorrieBrewer]

dotjeanne lee 😃 That’s the kind of comment I love to hear (or read lol)! I’m glad it was helpful to you! 💜💜

[@christinecloutier4015]

Very useful tutorial. Thank you

[@LorrieBrewer]

I'm glad it was helpful! 😊💜

[@monb.6841]

This is such a helpful video. Most people don't want to share any knowledge. I just started but I think all my supplies are wrong 😭 I'm using yupo paper which gets completely disformed as soon as I put alcohol on it. I thought this is meant to be the best paper 🧐 I'm using surgical spirit which is95%. I couldn't find anything else locally. Any in using"let's resin alcohol ink". Except the outside problem, I also get puddles rather then nice smoky finish and once that some parts actually dry, it's actually grainy. Honestly, I can't seem to find any answers to those problems 😣

[@LorrieBrewer]

I'm sooo sorry it took so long for me to get back to you! Yupo is a good surface for alcohol inks, but some brands are not as good as others. It absolutely should not deform or warp just from applying alcohol to it. I use Legion brand yupo and have never had that issue unless I apply too much heat from my dryer (though I generally only use the cool setting on mine). Your other problems are probably coming from the surgical spirit. It contains other additives that are not in isopropyl alcohol. Actually, some of your paper warping could be because of that, too, if the other chemicals in the surgical spirit are reacting with the polypropylene that yupo is made from. I have never used the brand of inks that you have, but I am almost positive your issues with your inks are coming from the surgical spirit, too. You really need to try to find some 91% or higher (I use 99%) straight isopropyl alcohol with no other additives other than the water that makes up the other small percentage of it. I am not sure where you are located, but in the US most pharmacies carry at least 91%. Don't get lower than that or the water content will be too high and you will have other problems because of that. Sometimes you can find 99% at office supply stores as well. You may end up having to order some online if you can't find any locally. It has taken me so long to get back to you that you may have already solved your problems yourself. I hate that your comment sort of slipped through the cracks. That is one that I would have tried to answer right away if I had seen it. One other suggestion for your paper - If you are still in the early stages of learning yupo is probably not the best paper for you to use. It's too expensive and it stains, making it harder to get the look you want when you want a soft, wispy edge to your inks. I much prefer Grafix opaque white craft plastic, Grafix Dura-Bright, and NARA synthetic art paper. None of those will stain like yupo does. You can also practice on the back side of glossy, ink jet photo paper. I use Office Depot, Staples, or Kirkland brand. Stay away from most of the big names like Kodak, HP, and Epson, though, because they have watermarks on the back side which would be a bummer if you painted one you loved and wanted to keep. Once again, I am sorry for your long wait to hear from me! I hope you haven't gotten discouraged and given up!

[@rubymarty1322]

Hi Lorrie, i appreciate your knowledge and helpful tips. I did order the revlon dryer because the one i use is 1200w!

[@LorrieBrewer]

Ruby Marty 😃 Thank you! Lol you shouldn’t have much trouble getting used to this one if you’ve been using a 1200 watt. 💜💜

[@rubymarty1322]

I was going to send you a picture of my thin line attempt, but i guess i can’t send photos on youtube

[@LorrieBrewer]

No, KZbin won’t let you. You can use the email on the “about” tab from my channel’s homepage though. Just click where it says for business inquiries 😃💜

[@kathryncurry2662]

Thank you, very informative!

[@LorrieBrewer]

Thank you very much! I am glad you found it helpful!

[@janacreek6184]

I know I’m a year or more late to this but I LOVE it. FYI I like the lines. Am I weird?

[@SuperCoyote7]

Great video, can you use a heat gun, or a spray brush instead of a blowdryer? What is the difference?

[@LorrieBrewer]

Yes, you can use an airbrush. Many people do use one, but I just haven’t ever tried that. In case you didn’t see the answer to the other comment you left about the heat gun - yes, you can use one, but it’s very easy to warp your paper with one unless it has just an air setting with no heat.

[@anniepeterson4707]

I LOVE how you get those thin lines! I've tried to do the same, but when I blow the ink in and up, it goes off to the other side. Then I have to go to that side but then it will blow off the other side again. How do you keep it so cohesive?

[@louisepage3842]

Very informative, thanks.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Louise Page 😃 Thank you! I am glad you found it helpful! 💜💜

[@karenhealey9009]

Eeek. My first effort wasn’t amazing. I didn’t get as many amazing lines. I will keep practicing!

[@karenmcdonald5813]

Thanks Lorrie! Greet tutorial. I'm looking forward to how to use metallics.I love the look but can't seem to get it right. Stay well.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Karen Mcdonald 💜 The metallics can definitely be a challenge! I can’t remember if you have ever told me which metallics you are using, but if you don’t have piñata brass you really should get some. That is just about the only metallic I even use anymore. Thank you so much for watching! Hoping you and yours stay healthy! 💜💜

[@karenmcdonald5813]

@@LorrieBrewer I've been using ranger but I'm going to order the brass.

[@LorrieBrewer]

Karen Mcdonald I think you’ll be much happier with the way the brass moves and looks in the painting! 💜💜

[@francineknittel6627]

Thank you so much! I've learned so much from you!!

[@LorrieBrewer]

francine knittel 💜 I am happy to have helped! 😃

[@maryannknox7158]

Thank You 🙏 Lorrie

[@LorrieBrewer]

You are very welcome! Hope you and yours are staying healthy! 💜💜

[@donnacarraway9182]

P.S. Have you ever tried to form the ink into a flower? May be one of those things that’s too specific for the ink to do. Possibly ink pen over alcohol ink painting. Do you ever work in segments? Like make a petal at a time? Can you tell that I do watercolor and don’t actually know alcohol yet??🙃🙃🥰

[@sylvettelaujol5748]

Thank you so much. You are vers creative.I live in France. I havé a question. Do you protect your art when finished with vernish?

[@lynnemeyers3735]

Thank you for your video, as always, Lorrie. One thing to add in your videos, if you would.....please caution people NOT to use denatured alcohol!!! Nice to see you are using a bit more of your Everclear stash! lol

[@LorrieBrewer]

Thank you for that reminder! I hadn’t thought about that. I will try to remember to mention that in the next one! Stay healthy! 💜💜

[@lynnemeyers3735]

@@LorrieBrewer, you stay healthy, too! Only reason I said something was because a member of Alcohol Ink Techniques had said that she was going to try it on the recommendation from someone else that it worked well. I pointed out the hazards of doing so & she decided against trying it. (Whew!) You reach more people than I ever would!

[@LorrieBrewer]

I guess people are getting more interested in experimenting with other alcohol types right now since they can’t get isopropyl. It looks like they would do a little research first though 🙄.

[@lynnemeyers3735]

@@LorrieBrewer, you would think!

[@mariannedal9068]

Thank you for this educational video I is so good

[@LorrieBrewer]

Marianne Dal 😃 I hope it has helped you if you were having some problems! 💜💜

[@alayjahf7684]

You went from NC to WA state??? Me too!! So cool! ☺️LOVE your videos

[@LorrieBrewer]

😊 Thank you! It’s a long move to make, isn’t it? Where in NC and WA? We went from western NC in the mountains to southeastern WA in the desert lol. Big change for us! 💜💜

[@alayjahf7684]

Western NC also! About an hour from Boone. Lenoir NC. And we are western WA. Hour or so from seattle

[@LorrieBrewer]

Lol We were about 30 minutes on the other side of Boone on the Banner Elk side.

[@alayjahf7684]

How awesome!! My grandparents live in Valle Crucis 😮

[@LorrieBrewer]

😃 That’s pretty neat lol 💜💜

[@ASMRLovebyT]

Hi there. I'm having so much trouble finding something that is 500watts. It's almost impossible. All hairdriers are around 2000 watts. I can't find the one you sent on my country. Would you maybe recommend a hot air pistol? Or what else would you recommend? Thank you !!

[@alphabettabox]

What are the colours you’ve used in the piece when you’re talking about negative space? I love that combination

[@AMNBabin]

Why didn’t it work? I had a few old pieces of glossy inkjet photo paper laying around and it worked beautifully. I don’t know the brand because they weren’t in a package (could have even been from the dollar store). I bought Epson value glossy photo paper-not premium-and the ink soaked right into the back of the paper. You could even see it on the front glossy side. It looked terrible and was impossible to spread (much like you demonstrated on the glossy side). I also bought a vellum surface wet media paper and again, it soaked right in. It’s frustrating to waste money trying to find cheaper options that people say “works” but it seems dependent on the BRAND of photo paper. I would have spent less just buying yupo in the first place. Any suggestions on brands of photo paper that have worked for you?

[@LorrieBrewer]

Sorry about the delayed response! I use Office Depot or Kirkland brand. Both of them have worked well for me. Others have used Staples brand and said it worked good for them, but I have never tried that one. If you want something sturdier than photo paper, the cheapest option I have found is Grafix opaque white craft plastic. You can order a 25 pk of 12x12 sheets from Amazon (amzn.to/3nMrcol) for around $19, or can sometimes find it in craft stores. It comes in 9x12 sheets as well, but is sometimes harder to find. Usually www.joggles.com has the best prices on it, but you do have to pay shipping (you save 50% off of shipping if your order is over $50). I know how frustrating it is to spend money on supplies and end up not even able to use them. The Grafix is good because you can usually clean it off with alcohol and reuse it if you don't like your painting. It generally doesn't stain the way yupo does. I hope this helps some. I am so sorry I didn't get back to you sooner!

[@bonniesbestcreations6817]

Hi there I’m loving your videos With the hair blower do you want some heat or just the cool air flow. Thanks so much

[@user-vm1ey7hs3g]

Which briand of Hair dryer do you use and how many volts? I ready that 800 would BE fine.

[@LorrieBrewer]

I use a 500 watt Revlon one. I haven't tried an 800, but it would probably be ok with some practice. The weaker the airflow is the better for this type of painting. Here is the Amazon link to the dryer I have if you want to check it out amzn.to/3L1eiOp

[@helencoman1461]

Hi,I tried my inks today for first time,I had tiles and glossy photo paper,I used the reverse side and it did what yours showed on glossy side. It sucked it up and wouldn't budge so I guess I try again with another brand that hopefully doesn't have such an absorbent back. Also I used gold octopus ink which I found really hard to move,it was very splodgy,should I invest in the pinata brass? Really grateful for your tips!😁👏Also I need to buy one of those dryers as I tried squeezing a rubber air dust blower and it was hurting my arthritic hands!😣 Love your work😍Helen

[@LorrieBrewer]

I am sorry I am just now getting back to you! If you haven't already found a photo paper that works, you might try Office Depot, Staples, or Kirkland brands. I have used all but the Staples and they work great, and several people have told me they use the Staples and it is good, too. 💜💜