The Pinata Alcohol inks are acid-free, transparent, highly concentrated, dye-based inks. They differ from other brands because they are Ethanol based which means the dye and binder are more soluble in ethanol than alcohol and offers a more intense colour. The ink is dye-based meaning it is light resistant but not light proof so, over time, the colours can fade. One exception to this is the white (Blanco) which is Pigment based. Direct sunshine testing after 1 month shows that the colour shows a little colour shift and after 5 months, some colours like the blues and Magenta show great fading. Pinata Alcohol inks dry to an indelible and moisture resistant. On their own, they may not stand up to scrubbing or dishwasher use without additional protection when used on a ceramic/glass surface. As with any painting, it is important to keep away from direct sunlight. A final varnish with a good UVA protection or displayed behind glass can offer additional protection against UV light. 

Piñata Alcohol Inks are versatile and can be used on many different surfaces beyond a paper surface. On a porous surface like paper the inks can sink into the paper and bleed through to the back. They can act as a dye for fabric, wood, leather and they work differently on a non-porous surface like Yupo synthetic paper, glass, foil, plastics, cellophane, acetate and canvas. Other methods are using them for rubber stamping, fine art, fibre art, scrapbooking, calligraphy, airbrush applications. A shiny surface will allow the inks to move organically across the surface. An Initial layer of alcohol – (clean up solution) can also help with ink move on the surface if required.

Piñata Clear Claro Extender can be used to make the Alcohol inks more transparent. When dropped or brushed on top of dry Piñata, Claro Extender will make the ink spread and create a wonderful flowing marble-like texture, it also will stay shiny and not change colour. Although, this extends the drying and working time but if you don't mind the extra waiting time, it adds a whole new level of experimentation to your artwork. Piñata Clear Claro Extender keeps the amount of binder (glue which holds the ink to the surface) the same meaning that the inks can be lightened without losing the adhesiveness.

Piñata Clean-up Solution is made from denatured ethanol alcohol which can be used to clean tools, wipe surfaces clean or dilute the colours. Drop the solution into the surface and inks to create interesting effects or add texture with tools or materials and solution to add texture, use tools to. Thinning or lightening the colours with the Clean up solution reduces the binder reducing the adhesive properties which can cause issues on some non-porous surfaces and the ink coming off if the binder in the ink is diluted too much.