Safety Overview
Safety is an important consideration for many artists. Many art materials we use can cause irritation or other health concerns if used improperly or without adequate precautions. I’m not minimizing the importance of safety — rather, the precautions you take should reflect your level of exposure and your own personal health and sensitivities.
In this course, I’ll show you the safety precautions I take in my own studio. Please keep in mind that I’m often working 6–8 hours a day, five days a week, and I don’t do every precaution every day. Safety comes down to exposure and personal comfort. Only you can determine what level of precaution is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Alcohol Inks (Ranger Tim Holtz®)
According to Ranger’s official Safety Data Sheet, alcohol inks are flammable liquids and vapors. Use adequate ventilation, avoid breathing vapors, and keep inks away from heat, sparks, and open flame. Bottles should be capped when not in use, and hands should be washed after handling.
“Avoid breathing vapors” refers to using adequate ventilation so fumes do not accumulate around your face. While the Safety Data Sheet does not require a respirator, you may choose to wear one if it feels appropriate for your comfort or exposure level.
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol shares similar hazards: flammability and potential eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Use in a ventilated area, avoid ignition sources, and limit skin contact.
Optional Resin Sealing (ArtResin®)
Respirators are not required by the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet when adequate ventilation is present. Some artists choose to wear a respirator during resin work for personal comfort, longer exposure times, or individual sensitivity. This is a personal choice rather than a requirement.
ArtResin is marketed as non-toxic, low odor, and safe for home art use when used as directed. Their Safety Data Sheet still recommends avoiding prolonged skin contact, wearing gloves and eye protection, and working in a ventilated space.
Quick Safety Checklist
- Ventilate your workspace (open window, door, or fan)
- Keep inks, alcohol, and resin away from heat and flames
- Cap containers when not in use
- Wash hands after working
- Gloves and eye protection as needed
- Respirators are optional and based on personal comfort
