Crop Stop Review
Tim Holtz Distress Inks and Distress Stickles
By Gloria Stengel

Tim Holtz Distress Inks have been around for a long time, but have gained popularity again in the past few years. A large portion of the new “buzz” about these inks has to do with Tim’s amazing website and blog where he freely gives advice and posts product workshops, demos, and video tutorials. Couple that with new ink colors and companion products which have been released recently by Ranger (Distress Stickles, Crackle Paints, and Embossing Powders), and you get amazing products that are fun to play with! There are 24 inks, 12 Stickles glues, 28 crackle paints, and 24 embossing powders in the Distress line.

Let’s talk about the inks. What’s so special about them? These dye-based inks are what is called “reactive” in water. Which means, that when you add water they won’t lose their intensity or turn “muddy” like other dye inks. This reactivity allows you to create a number of interesting effects. The ink is not only a distressing ink, but also a stamping ink. It stays wet longer than other dye inks, allowing you to blend it or add embossing powder and heat emboss it. However, unlike wet pigment inks, distress ink does not have to be heat set. The colors range from palest blue to blackest black.

There are also re-inkers are available just in case your ink pad gets dry! But don’t worry, I’ve had some of mine for years, used them a lot, and just recently needed to “juice them up” with the re-inker. (But, there are other ways to use the re-inkers. Check Tim’s blog or the Crop Stop Message Board for details!)

Stickles Distress Glitter Glue is a variegated glitter with a matte finish, unlike the regular Stickles which are sparkly. The Distress Stickles come in colors to match the ink pads, so you can cover the dry Stickles with the ink to create a tarnished look. Stickles are so easy to use and dry on most surfaces. You can add them to a brad or a button to get a whole new embellishment. You can also “paint” them onto Tim’s Grunge Board shapes! You can also mix the Stickles with acrylic paint to get a sparkling paint. Stickles do take a long time to dry, so be patient!
These inks and glitters are staples in my craft room. I use the inks almost every day. My favorite colors are Vintage Photo, Black Soot, and Blue Jeans. I hope you find your favorite too!