Introduction: Ink Made From Root Beer
Canadian artist Marcel Dzama works with ink made from root beer - now you can too! It's cheap, easy and the results are quite nice to work with.
Step 1: Find Yourself Some Natural Root Beer.
Look for root beers with sasparilla in them - this natural colorant will last longer than the molasses and dyes used in your average soda pop.
Step 2: Boil Down the Root Beer
On medium heat on the stovetop, warm 1-2 bottles of root beer slowly. The water will evaporate leaving a sticky, concentrated syrup. Be careful not to have the heat on too high, or the sugar will burn easily.
Step 3: Transfer to Small Containers
Once you've got all the water evaporated and are left with your concentrated root beer, pour into small containers to use as paint pots.
Step 4: Create!
With a paintbrush, mix small amounts of water to the reduction to achieve more fluidity; much like you would with a watercolor. Also be sure to use watercolor paper or something of a heavier stock for optimal results. I like to use a warm-toned Arches paper. Enjoy!