Are the same-named Chalkology® Pastes and Chalkology® Inks designed to be equivalent colors (e.g., Candy Apple paste and Candy Apple ink)? Or are they different?
When paste and ink share the same color name, they are intended to be as close to each other as possible but may not be identical. Because of their formulation and unique pigments, they will dry with different intensities.
Is there a different “look” in the dry finish between paste and ink (e.g., matte versus glossy)?
Yes. Paste dries more matte and tends to level on its own, making for consistent application throughout your Chalk Transfer® design. Ink dries more glossy and doesn’t level on its own, so you will need to especially smooth it over the Transfer to achieve your desired effect.
Will either fade in daylight?
Any color will fade over time, but fading is accelerated when exposed to daylight. Avoid exposing your projects to long periods of sunlight and direct sunlight.
Is the ink nontoxic?
Yes, both ink and paste are nontoxic, but neither are for human consumption and should be kept out of reach of children. Note that the metallic inks contain trace metals. Any accidental ingestion should be reported to your physician.
Can I mix ink colors together and on a project like I can paste colors?
Yes, no problem.
Can I mix paste and ink together to create my own color?
No, because the ink needs to be heat-set and paste cannot be heated.
Can I use paste and ink on the same project?
Yes, but do not mix the ink and paste together. Also, do not heat-set paste; for example, if you create a project with both paste and ink, you will want to heat-set the ink before completing the paste portion of the project.
Can I use techniques like marbling and ombré with ink?
Yes. They are trickier techniques with ink, but they do work.
Can I remove ink from a hard surface project (e.g., scraping off a plate with a craft knife)?
If you have heat-set your project you should consider it permanent. If you haven’t heat-set your project, the ink may come off completely, smudge, or smear in water or when rubbed briskly. On hard surfaces, you may be able to scrape off non heat-set ink with a craft knife. It will not come off cleanly like paste can, and should be used carefully as it is not forgiving on porous surfaces like fabric.
What are the consistencies among pastes and inks?
You may see a difference in paste consistency, which is normal, because each color has its own unique formula. You will not experience a significant difference in ink consistency. Paste is typically thicker and creamier than ink.
Does ink dry faster or slower than paste?
Ink dries much slower than paste; you may wish to use the Quick Dry Tool to speed drying. If you make a project with layered colors, we recommend heat-setting each layer.
Will ink bleed through fabric?
Yes, ink can bleed through fabric. Use an Ink Mat to protect underlying surfaces. Ensure you remove the Ink Mat before heat-setting the ink.
Can I heat-set my project while the Ink Mat is underneath it?
No, remove the Ink Mat first, because it is not heat proof.
Do I need to seal ink projects, even after heat-setting?
No, heat-setting seals a project.
Will paste and ink stain my Transfers?
Yes, most likely, but staining does not reduce the Transfer’s integrity. Some of the darkest ink and paste colors can stain the silk portion of the Transfer, but that staining will not discolor the next project you make with that Transfer. We recommend you wash your Transfers immediately after using either. (Note that because ink is permanent and less forgiving than paste, it can clog the screen if allowed to dry.)
How long do I heat-set fabric?
Heat-set for four minutes on each side (inked side AND non-inked side) with a medium-heat iron. Use a barrier, such as parchment paper, between your iron and inked surface, and keep the iron moving in small circles—don’t let it rest in one spot.
Can I heat-set non fabric items? What about surfaces that can’t tolerate heat (e.g., plastics or melamine)?
You can heat-set non fabric items that can tolerate medium heat in an oven (300°–350° F) for 30 minutes. We recommend waiting for the ink to dry before putting it in the oven. Also, wait for the oven to finish preheating before placing your project inside.
If you use ink on a surface that can’t tolerate heat, do not heat-set it. If an item can be baked—like many ceramics, glassware, and cookware—it will likely be heat-set safe. Please read all surface information about the item you plan to ink before putting it in your oven to heat-set. You can still use ink on surfaces that don’t tolerate heat, but the ink will not be permanent because it cannot be heat-set.
Can I use ink on dishes?
Yes, but the ink formula is not designed to be in direct contact with food or beverages.
Is the ink dishwasher safe?
Yes, once it has been heat-set.
Can I use ink on my chalkboard?
Yes, but we don’t recommend heat-setting a chalkboard. However, ink is designed to be permanent, so it may not completely come off even if it is not heat-set.
What’s the best way to clean up after ink accidents? Any project-rescue suggestions?
If it is only a small drop of ink and on a nonporous surface, you can let it dry completely and peel it off; however, it will soak into most porous surfaces immediately, deeming the ink unremovable. Depending on the surface, ink may stain even if it hasn’t been heat-set. If a larger area is affected and the ink won’t peel off, you may need to start over OR try to ink over the mistake.
How do I clean up my Ink Mat?
Use water to wipe it clean. Do not use a disinfecting wipe, because it will take the adhesive off your mat.
How do I layer designs?
Heat-set the ink between layers. When using paste, let each layer dry before applying additional ones. To speed the process, you can use the Quick Dry Tool for each layer.
What’s the shelflife of paste and ink?
Pastes and inks will last longest when stored in their jars, tightly sealed, and in a cool, dry place. Cap immediately after use or between projects to prolong life. Both pastes and inks are best when used within three months of purchase.