what to use on shrinky dinks

3 min read 25-12-2024

Shrinky Dinks are a fun and creative way to make personalized charms, ornaments, and more. But with so many different materials available, choosing the right ones can be tricky. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best pens, markers, pencils, and other tools to use on Shrinky Dinks plastic, ensuring your creations are vibrant, durable, and unique.

Choosing the Right Tools for Your Shrinky Dink Project

The key to successful Shrinky Dinks lies in selecting the appropriate art supplies. Not all pens and markers are created equal when it comes to this plastic. Some will melt or smear, while others will produce beautiful, lasting results.

Pens and Markers for Vibrant Colors

Sharpie Permanent Markers: These are a popular choice due to their vibrant colors and permanent nature. The ink is specifically designed to withstand high temperatures, ensuring your designs won't fade or smear during the shrinking process. Experiment with different point sizes for various details.
Oil-Based Markers: Similar to Sharpies, oil-based markers offer bold colors and excellent heat resistance. Look for markers specifically labeled as "oil-based" or "permanent."
Fine-Line Pens: For intricate details and fine lines, fine-line pens are an excellent addition to your Shrinky Dink toolkit. Their precise tips allow for greater control and accuracy in your artwork. Choose pens with permanent, pigmented ink for best results.
Acrylic Paint Pens: These are great for bold colors and filling in large areas. They're thicker than markers but provide a vibrant and opaque finish. Ensure the paint is fully dry before shrinking.

Pencils and Other Drawing Tools

While markers are ideal for vibrant color, pencils offer a different creative approach.

Permanent Markers: Unlike regular markers, permanent markers are heat-resistant. They won't smear or run during the shrinking process.
Colored Pencils: Colored pencils are perfect for adding subtle shading and details to your Shrinky Dink designs. However, they may not be as vibrant as markers. Use a light touch and avoid layering too heavily.
Fine-Point Gel Pens: For metallic effects or subtle details, fine-point gel pens can add a unique touch to your artwork. The thicker ink can cover more area than other fine tips.

What NOT to Use on Shrinky Dinks

Watercolor Paints: Watercolor paints are not suitable for Shrinky Dinks. The water will cause the plastic to warp and the paint won't hold up to the heat.
Crayons: Crayons melt unevenly and don't adhere well to the plastic. The wax may also create an uneven surface.
Washable Markers: These will run and smudge during the shrinking process. Stick to permanent markers or pens.

Preparing Your Shrinky Dinks for Artwork

Before you start creating your masterpiece, make sure your Shrinky Dinks plastic is clean and dry. Lightly roughing up the surface with fine-grit sandpaper can also help the ink adhere better. Remember to draw on the shiny side of the plastic. The dull side is usually meant for backing or support materials.

Troubleshooting Common Shrinky Dink Issues

Smearing: If your ink smears, ensure the markers are completely dry before shrinking. Allow plenty of drying time.
Uneven Shrinking: Ensure the plastic is placed on a heat-resistant surface to prevent warping or uneven shrinking.
Faded Colors: Using low-quality markers will result in faded colors. Stick to brands known for heat resistance.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Texture and Dimension

To enhance your Shrinky Dinks, consider adding texture or dimension:

Embossing: Use an embossing tool or even the back of a spoon to create raised designs before applying ink.
Layering: Create a more complex look by layering different colors and textures.
Adding Glitter: Add glitter glue or fine glitter to sections of your design. Make sure it's completely dry before shrinking.

With the right tools and techniques, your Shrinky Dink creations can be truly unique and eye-catching. Experiment with different materials to find your favorite combinations and unleash your creativity! Remember to always supervise children when using Shrinky Dinks and other art supplies. Happy crafting!