ONLINE CLASS: Learn how to create colorful leaves with alcohol ink and foil
Whenever I post photos of the colorful leaves my students create in live workshops, I always get requests to offer this class online. It's finally here!
I'll guide you step-by-step to create four different leaves, from templates you can print, that each fit a 6" x 6" area. This is perfect to attach to a 6x6 card or to mat/frame with a 6x6 opening. If you've not used Deco Foil before, you're in for a treat! Once we outline our leaf design in foil, we'll add colorful alcohol ink to create colorful, organic effects.
This is pre-recorded class, with step-by-step instructions. You watch the steps at your own pace and will have access for two years from the date of purchase.
Once you know these techniques, you can apply them to all types of other designs for art or cards for all occasions and seasons.
Here's an overview of this online class:
SUPPLY LIST
These are the materials and supplies we'll be using for this online class. You can purchase what you need separately from the list below, or I am offering a kit in my online store that includes everything except for alcohol inks and 91% Isopropyl alcohol. (See the link to purchase the kit at the bottom of the supply list)
ALCOHOL INK
My personal favorite brands are Ranger/Tim Holtz, Pinata brand by Jacquard, and Altenew, If you are serious about creating beautiful art, please don't buy the cheap brands popping up on Amazon - you will be very frustrated and will end up buying better ink later anyway.
In this class, I'm using Ranger brand in shades of yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, blue, aqua and green.
91% OR 99% ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL (IPA)
Either is fine - just so it's not 70%, which isn't strong enough. Have this handy in a small sealed bottle to clean brushes in between using different colors.
BLENDING SOLUTION
Ranger Alcohol Blending Solution really does work differently than Isopropyl Alcohol and I highly recommend it.
Don't try to make your own (I have) because it doesn't work as well and doesn't dry properly. A little goes a long way, so overall the Ranger brand will save you a lot of frustration and money in the long run.
PAPER/SUBSTRATE
- Any synthetic paper (I like Yupo, Grafix Dura-Bright Opaque White or White Craft Plastic) For this project I recommend a 12x12 sheet of Craft Plastic trimmed down to four pieces 5.75" x 5.75"
TOOLS
- Small detail brush (size 0 or 1)
- Palette
FOIL & ADHESIVE
- Deco Foil Transfer Sheets - in gold, copper or bronze
- Adhesive - we'll be using a special adhesive that stays tacky when it's dry, so a regular glue won't work. We want a tacky surface (not wet or dry) so that the foil will adhere properly. It can take 30 to 90 minutes for the adhesvie to dry, so there will be some waiting time involved. Two options I've found work well are
OTHER
- Protective gloves
- Protection for your work surface - puppy training pads are awesome!
- Napkins or paper towel
- Small bottle with some 91% Isopropyl Alcohol in it (for cleaning brushes)
This class is perfect for beginners, but all alcohol ink artists are sure to pick up some tips to add to their paintings. Again, once you know these techniques, you can create art and cards for every season or occasion.
Here's just a sample of pieces created by my students:
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