Since shimmer is achieved by using small particulates, the ink should be used in pens with wetter flow and larger nib sizes. However, some care is required to avoid clogging your pens. Many people like the idea of being able to add some sparkle to their journals or other writing, and shimmer inks are a great way to do it. Also keep in mind that properly cleaning your pen and using it often to avoid it drying out are some of the best steps you can take to ensure your fountain pens last a lifetime, especially when using high-maintenance inks. If you aren’t sure, it may take a little experimenting to find the ink that works best for you. These preferences are reflected in many German and Japanese brands of ink, although there are exceptions. Western nibs may benefit from a slightly drier ink due to their generous flow, while many Japanese pens are tuned dry and therefore perform better with wet inks. In other words, does it tend to put down a lot of ink on the page, or does it feel like the ink is not flowing as well as it should be? For example, it may put down a thinner line that feels scratchy if the ink is too dry for the pen. You should also consider if your pen is a wet or dry writer. Are you an artist who needs something waterproof and lightfast? Or are you someone who just wants lots of fun colors to play with? These factors will determine what kind of ink you should purchase. When selecting an ink, decide what properties you would like your ink to have. These are designed for use with dip pens, where they cling to the nib and adhere to the paper – they will not flow properly in a fountain pen and contain other additives that can permanently damage the pen. Be aware that many calligraphy inks and India ink are not compatible with fountain pens, and may destroy the pen. Even if the pen is tuned perfectly to your liking, it still won’t write if you put the wrong ink in it.

Here, the world is truly your oyster.Īll that being said, choosing the right ink can make or break your writing experience. Maybe that’s all too boring, and you want lavender with rose gold shimmer. Do you want royal purple, or sunset orange? Perhaps you want a teal that sheens red in the right lighting. The ability to choose any ink color for your pen is probably one of the best things about fountain pens. Below, I’ve written details about two things (ink and paper) that every fountain pen user needs to know about. There are lots of things to consider when using fountain pens, and each part works together to create a writing experience that sets them apart from other pens.

India ink fountain pens