Making Ink

I’ve been doing some workshops and research into how to make some of my own materials and this is my first successful attempt - Copper Oxide Ink!

The process is pretty simple - place some pieces of copper in a jar and cover with vinegar and add a few pinches of salt. I stir it every once in a while and it is ready to use after a couple of weeks. I’m going to leave this a bit longer as I would like the beautiful blue colour to be a bit stronger, but I’m happy that it seems to be working - and that it’s so easy.

Copper ink after 2 weeks

I am expecting to see my colour palette change somewhat in these types of images that I make using water colour and ink washes as a starting point on which to build a scene. I’m looking forward to trying to make a few different types of inks once I get into the full swing - got my eyes out for oak galls as apparently these can make a lovely brown ink… just takes time and patience I think.

Mixed media - ink washes on watercolour paper, found photograph and encaustic wax and pigment sticks

These artworks are from a series called ‘Forgotten Memories’ and are available from my online SHOP - affordable, original art.