Recently I began using Vintaj's Patina Ink. Some of the things I look for when I am trying a new product are:
1. Is it easy to use.
2. Does the product do what the company claims it should.
3. Is it reasonably priced for the quality of the product.
4. What is the outcome on my jewelry compared to how it is advertised.
The product is relatively easy to use. Basic instructions are provided on the back of the packaging and there are plenty of online videos to help. I think you should also have a little bit of an understanding of color and layering of colors as the Patina ink can easily become muddy looking on your project. It is best to try it on a scrap piece of metal and have a plan prior to using it on your piece. It does dry quickly, about the same time it takes for spray paint to dry, though this is not spray paint. The material comes in a small squeeze bottle with a spout. It also has what sounds like little metal beads in it, similar to nail polish, used to mix the ink. One of the things I did find is that when squeezing the bottle with equal pressure, sometimes a little bit of ink came out, and sometimes a lot came out - the flow is not consistent, but this is a minimal problem. I used a natural bristle brush and it cleaned up easily with soap and water. It also cleaned up with soap and water if it dried on the brush. With any media, if you let it dry on your brush you run the risk of ruining your brush. The Patina ink washes off your hands easily. I have not checked how well it washes out of clothing.
The product does what the company claims. It paints on nicely and easily, it does not clump, it layers well, and strongly adheres to metal. I recommend planning a paint route on your project or letting the ink dry between applications to avoid it becoming muddy. On my own jewelry I have found that the paint is permanent, but can be removed somewhat with sandpaper after it dries. You can also use sandpaper when the ink is still wet and this will also remove some of the ink, revealing the metal beneath. If you are using a shiny metal, it will take a few coats of the Patina ink, antiqued metals less so.
I tried this product on Polymer clay and it works great. The ink becomes rather one dimensional so I would suggest adding a glaze over the top.
I have looked online and found that the prices ranges from $9-20 on Ebay and on other traditional bead sites about $13. The product has great qualities and I am pleased with its application and outcome. I think it is moderately priced as you get 2 or 3 - 0.5 ounce bottles; however, as a consumer, I would be happier if it was around $10.
I have to say that overall I love the product and will continue to use it in my designs. Below are the colors I have personally used and a design that I used the inks on. (This necklace can be purchased at
ursyllabs.etsy.com)
