Liquid Magic: Exploring the World of Calligraphy Inks

As a beginner calligrapher, one of the most important decisions you will make is selecting the right ink for your work. Inks are an essential part of calligraphy and selecting the right one can make all the difference in the quality and finish of your work. In this blog post, we will introduce you to the some of the types of inks available and the considerations which will help you choose the right ink for your needs.

Types of Inks

There are many types of inks available for calligraphy. Here are a few of the most common:

Sumi Ink: a traditional Japanese ink made from soot and water. It is commonly used in Asian calligraphy and is known for its rich black colour.

India Ink: a waterproof, opaque ink that is made from carbon black pigment mixed with a binder. It is also known for its rich black colour and is a popular choice for calligraphers.

Acrylic Ink: a water-based ink that is waterproof and dries quickly. It is ideal for use on non-porous surfaces like plastic or glass.

Fountain Pen Ink: designed for use with fountain pens and is available in a wide range of colours. It is often used for modern calligraphy.

Calligraphy Ink: specifically designed for calligraphy and is available in a wide range of colours. It is often used for traditional calligraphy.

Walnut Ink: made from the husks of walnuts, soaked, boiled and filtered. It has been used for centuries and has a lovely, antique, sepia finish. Can be quite a watery consistency but lasts well.

Choosing the Right Ink

When selecting an ink for your calligraphy, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Colour: The colour of your ink will depend on the type of calligraphy you are doing and your personal preference. Black is a popular choice, but you may also want to consider other colours to add interest to your work.

Consistency: The consistency of your ink is important. If it is too thin, it may bleed or feather on the paper, while if it is too thick, it may be difficult to work with. 

Durability: Some inks are more durable than others. If you are creating a piece that will be displayed or sold, you may want to choose an ink that is long-lasting and won't fade over time.

Surface: The type of surface you will be working on will also affect your choice of ink. Some inks work better on porous surfaces like paper, while others are better for non-porous surfaces like glass.

To Sum Up 

Choosing the right ink is an important part of calligraphy. With so many types of inks available, it can be overwhelming for beginners. However, by considering factors like colour, consistency, durability, and surface, you can make an informed decision and select the right ink for your needs.

Remember, practise makes progress, and as you gain more experience in calligraphy, you will probably find yourself experimenting with different types of inks to find the ones that work best for you.