The Beauty of Fountain Pen Ink
There’s something special about using a fountain pen to write with – the feeling of the nib gliding across the paper, and the unique line variation and width that can be achieved. But one of the most enjoyable aspects of using a fountain pen is the wide range of inks available. From shimmering metallics to muted pastels, there’s a fountain pen ink to suit every writing style. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of fountain pen ink available.
Dye-Based Inks: The Most Common Type
Dye-based inks are the most popular type of fountain pen ink. They’re made from water-soluble dyes and can be found in a huge range of colors. Dye-based inks are often vibrant and produce a clean, crisp line. However, they can be prone to fading over time, particularly in light and heat. Some well-known brands of dye-based fountain pen ink include Pilot Iroshizuku and De Atramentis.
Pigment-Based Inks: Fade-Resistant Permanence
Pigment-based fountain pen inks are made from finely ground solid particles suspended in a liquid solution. Once dried, they’re usually much more resistant to fading and smudging than dye-based inks. Pigment-based inks are often used for archival work, or for documents that need to be water-resistant. However, they tend to be more expensive and can sometimes feel thicker or have a particular smell. Some well-known brands of pigment-based fountain pen ink include Platinum Carbon Ink and Noodler’s Bulletproof Ink.
Iron Gall Inks: For Traditionalists
Iron gall ink has been used for centuries, and was a popular choice for writing in the Middle Ages. It’s made by adding iron salts to organic tannins, and the resulting ink mixture is known for its dark, intense color. Iron gall inks were particularly useful for scribes due to their binding properties, which helped the ink adhere to parchment and vellum. However, modern formulations tend to be less acidic and less damaging to paper. Well-known brands of iron gall fountain pen ink include Rohrer & Klingner iron gall ink.
Specialty Inks: Sparkle and Shimmer
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, there are also specialty fountain pen inks available. These can range from inks that produce a subtle shimmer, to those that are packed with glitter and sparkle. Some specialty inks may contain other additives too, such as scented ink or ink that fluoresces under UV light. Popular brands of specialty fountain pen ink include J. Herbin’s 1670 Anniversary Ink, which features subtle gold shimmer, and Organic Studio’s Nitrogen Ink, which produces an intense blue-black line with plenty of sheen.
Choosing the Right Fountain Pen Ink for You
Choosing a fountain pen ink can be a personal choice – some writers will have a particular color or brand they always turn to, while others may enjoy experimenting with different types. Whatever your preference, there’s no doubt that fountain pen ink can add an extra dimension to your writing experience. Whether you’re looking for rich, deep colors or vibrant, shimmering shades, there’s a fountain pen ink to suit your needs.
