CALLIGRAPHY INKS

Ink is arguably one of the most important parts of Calligraphy along with pens and supports (paper).  Ink is also a highly personal choice – what works well for one calligrapher might be a disaster for another.
        Fortunately, there is a wide range of varieties, formulas and colors to choose from that also can be confusing when searching for the “perfect” calligraphy ink. 

There are three types of inks suitable for calligraphy:

• fountain pen ink (only for calligraphy fountain pens – not dip pens)
• drawing/calligraphy ink (for dip pens)
• Chinese/Japanese stick ink (for dip pens)                                                                                                    

Calligraphy Fountain Pen Ink

Calligraphy fountain pens are a little more restrictive as to what type of ink should be used in the pen.  One should generally follow the recommendations of the pen manufacturer or choose inks that are specifically labeled for fountain pens.

       Calligraphy fountain pens typically use ink contained in plastic cartridges so it is relatively simple to purchase refills specific to your pen.  A few brands might also have the option of purchasing or including a converter that will allow you to use bottled ink instead of cartridges. 

       Since calligraphy fountain pens can be much more expensive than dip pens, make sure the ink is thoroughly flushed and the pen cleaned after each use. 

Dip Pens

Dip pens allow greater latitude with ink selection, and can also be used with other media such as gouache or an acrylic-based ink. Certain characteristics that suit my calligraphy style:

• dense, black color
• produces clean, crisp strokes without fading or “puddling”
• a “thicker” ink that grabs the reservoir but flows evenly
• does not fade or change color over time
• does not show overlapping pen strokes
• does not contain any ingredients that might damage the support material or pen nib.
• a “cool” color

 More translucent or thinner, free-flowing inks can be used to create amazing artistic effects that add beauty and character to lettering.

Chinese/Japanese Stick Ink

       Traditionally tools for Chinese/Japanese calligraphy and painting, somewhere along the line Western calligraphers discovered the unique properties and beauty of ground stick ink for dip pen lettering. A mid-range quality ink stick and ink stone will produce good ink for calligraphy. 
      All you need is an ink stone for grinding the ink, an ink stick, and distilled water.  The ink is produced by placing about a teaspoon of water on the stone and, holding the ink stick in an upright position, slowly grinding the ink into the water with a circular motion.
The ink needs to be ground carefully; too much pressure will cause bits of ink to chip off and might crack the stick.  Once the ink is at the desired consistency, it is loaded into the pen reservoir using a brush.  The ink stone should be cleaned with water (nothing abrasive) as dried ink left on the stone will damage the surface.  When finished grinding ink, dry the ink stick and store it – never leave the ink stick standing on the stone!
      "There are plenty of opinions and recommendations about calligraphy ink, but ultimately only you can decide what ink is best for your style and purpose."
       Remember, there is no “right” or “wrong” ink – just the ink that works for you – and your pen!!!!