What is the Difference Between Alcohol Ink and Resin Dye?

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The main difference between alcohol ink and resin dye lies in their composition and usage. Here are the key differences:

  • Composition: Alcohol inks are fast-drying, waterproof, highly-pigmented, and alcohol-based inks suitable for a variety of surfaces. Resin dyes, on the other hand, are liquid dyes specifically designed for mass-coloration of epoxy resins.
  • Usage: Alcohol inks can be used on various surfaces, providing a vibrant, saturated look and beautiful effects. Resin dyes are primarily used for coloring epoxy resin materials.
  • Compatibility: Alcohol inks can be used with epoxy resin, but some colors, especially purples, may change when mixed with the resin due to heat generated during the curing process. It is essential to test the compatibility of specific alcohol ink colors with resin before using them together.
  • Flammability: Alcohol inks are generally flammable, while epoxy resins like ArtResin are not. Avoid using a torch if the epoxy resin consists of alcohol.

In summary, alcohol inks are versatile coloring agents suitable for various surfaces, while resin dyes are specifically designed for coloring epoxy resins. Alcohol inks can be used with epoxy resin, but it is crucial to test their compatibility before use.

Comparative Table: Alcohol Ink vs Resin Dye

Here is a table comparing the differences between alcohol ink and resin dye:

Property Alcohol Ink Resin Dye
Definition Fast-drying, waterproof, highly-pigmented, and alcohol-based inks. Liquid dyes suitable for mass-coloration of epoxy resins.
Application Applicable on a variety of surfaces. Suitable for epoxy resin material.
Transparency Flowy and transparent, allowing for unique and versatile effects. Typically formulated to color the resin at a molecular level.
Reactivation Can be reactivated after drying using alcohol, similar to watercolors. No mention of reactivation.
Cost Can be pricey. Less expensive than alcohol inks.
Effects Can achieve "petri dish" effect when used in resin. Not suitable for "petri dish" effect.

Alcohol inks are fast-drying, waterproof, and highly-pigmented, making them applicable on various surfaces and suitable for creating unique effects. Resin dyes, on the other hand, are specifically designed for epoxy resin material and provide a more consistent coloration at a molecular level. While alcohol inks can be more expensive, they offer more versatility in terms of effects and applications.