Alcohol Ink with Plastic Wrap

This technique, using alcohol ink with plastic wrap on ceramic bowls, is the easiest idea I've tried yet. It creates the most beautiful pattern with little effort, and though messy, it is something anyone can do.

I've tried using alcohol inks in many ways. I find their saturated colors to be so beautiful. And they couldn't be easier to work with, giving you almost foolproof results.

Today, I'm sharing my attempt at using the ink with plastic wrap, which may be the easiest option yet. The hardest part is waiting for them to dry.

I used two ceramic white bowls I bought at Target, but you can also find similar items at the dollar store.

This post contains some affiliate links (that means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, there’s no additional cost to you, but I will earn a very small commission. ) i.e. as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Painting Ceramic Bowls with Alcohol Ink and Plastic Wrap

Step 1. Cover your table or surface with plastic. I simply cut open a trash bag and taped it down to protect my table.

Step 2. Cut a piece of plastic wrap large enough to cover the bowl.

Step 3. Start placing drops of alcohol inks in any color you like on the plastic wrap. Depending on the bowl, you can leave some of the top and bottom clear, but you will want the sides filled.

Step 4. Start to wrap the plastic around the bowl. Don't worry if you get some on the inside or bottom. It's inevitable and can be cleaned up later.

Step 5. If you are seeing too much white space, you can lift the plastic and add more ink.

Step 6. Press the plastic all around, allowing it to crease. (That's what makes the magic)

I filled the plastic wrap with more color on the second bowl, and it worked better.

Step 7. Let the bowl(s) dry for 24 hours before lifting the plastic a little to check to see if it's pretty dry. It should be, but depending on the heat and humidity of your area, it may take longer.

Step 8. Remove the plastic wrap and then use paper towels or cotton balls and rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) to remove any unwanted ink inside the bowl and on the bottom.

Step 9. You can also use cotton swabs to remove small areas of unwanted ink in the patterns.

Step 10. If you want, you can add a protective layer of polyurethane. Either a spray on or brush on variety. However, I'd wait a couple of days to make sure the ink has thoroughly dried and use thin coats.

Either way, these beautiful bowls should not be used for food. They will no longer be dishwasher safe or microwavable. However, you can lightly handwash them if needed.

So pretty and easy! I especially love the leaf-like print the plastic made.