Question 1

What is the difference between paint, ink and dye?

Accepted Answer

Paint sits on top of a surface as a pigmented film, ink is a fluid colorant that flows and layers, and dye chemically bonds into porous fibers. Choose paint for wood, canvas and home decor; choose ink (water-based dye, pigment or alcohol) for paper crafts, journaling and resin art; choose dye for fabric, yarn and natural fibers. Many alcohol inks are 90%-plus dye concentration, so a few drops cover a lot.

Question 2

Which paints work on fabric versus wood or ceramics?

Accepted Answer

For fabric, use fiber-reactive dyes, acid dyes or fabric paints that heat-set so color survives the wash. For wood and canvas, acrylic and chalk-style paints adhere well, usually over a primer. For ceramics, choose food-safe glazes that mature in a kiln (often cone 5-6) or air-dry enamels for decorative-only pieces. Always confirm the listing names your exact surface before buying.

Question 3

How much do handmade paints, inks and dyes cost?

Accepted Answer

Single alcohol-ink bottles, stamping inks and small mica-pigment lots typically run $6-$25. Hand-poured paint sets, dye kits, glaze samplers and embossing-powder bundles usually fall $20-$80, depending on volume and pigment quality. Specialty items like inlay powders or bulk dye lots can run higher. A 0.5 oz sample is the cheapest way to test a color before you commit to a full set.

Question 4

What is embossing powder and how is it used?

Accepted Answer

Embossing powder is a fine resin powder sprinkled over a wet pigment-ink image, then melted with a heat tool to leave a raised, glossy or metallic line. It is popular for cardmaking, wedding invitations and hand-lettering. Use a slow-drying embossing ink, work one small section at a time, and tap off the excess before heating so details stay crisp. Most powders melt in 15-30 seconds.

Question 5

Do I need a primer, fixative or solvent with these products?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Primers help paint bond to slick wood, metal or plastic; mordants and heat-setting lock dyes and fabric paints so they resist fading and washing. Solvents and blending solutions thin alcohol inks or clean tools between colors. Check each listing for recommended companions, and favor makers who state plainly whether a color is ready-to-use or needs a setting step.

Question 6

How do I avoid fading and keep colors lightfast?

Accepted Answer

Look for an ASTM lightfastness rating of I (excellent) or II (very good) on paints and inks, and pick fiber-reactive or acid dyes that bond permanently. Seal finished art with a UV-resistant varnish or fixative, and keep alcohol-ink pieces out of direct sun, which fades them fastest. For wearables, heat-set the color and wash inside out in cold water to hold vibrancy.

Paints, Inks & Dyes for Crafters

Explore by interest

Recently explored

Inspired by what you viewed

Paints, Inks & Dyes for Crafters

There's even more for you to discover

Explore by interest

Recently explored

Inspired by what you viewed