Opulent Inkwell

How to Pick the Right Fountain Pen Ink for YOU

Choosing fountain pen ink doesn’t have to be tricky or daunting—it’s all about finding what works for you! With so many colors, brands, and special features out there, picking the right one can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But don’t worry—I can talk you through the basics and help you match your pen and style with the perfect ink.

Heads up: If you’re new to filling a fountain pen, just know that “inky fingers” is basically a rite of passage. Congratulations in advance on your temporary blue (or green, or purple) fingerprints—true proof that you’re joining the club!

Cartridges or bottled ink: The practical choice

First, you’ll need to decide between ink cartridges and bottled ink. The pen you choose may take one or other or maybe both. Both options have benefits, but it ultimately depends on preference. I enjoy filling ink and seeing the reservoir fill.

• Cartridges are convenient and easy to use, ideal for those who prioritize speed and don’t want to deal with converters or potential messes. However, the color selection is usually more limited. 
• Bottled inks, on the other hand, offer an endless array of colors and properties, but require more frequent cleaning if you’re swapping colors often. Converters allow you to refill cartridges with an ink of your choice, so you can have the best of both worlds.

The Various Types of Ink

Beyond color, fountain pen inks have many unique properties that can greatly affect your writing experience.

• Dye based Ink: This is the most common type of ink and are water based.  This ink is known for its smooth flow and ease of cleaning. Types of uses would be for everyday uses such as note taking, letter writing, journaling, etc.
• Pigment based Ink: This ink contains solid pigment particles which tend to last longer over time. Pigment based ink has a greater resistance to fading and water damage. Enthusiasts will want to watch their pen for clogging and will need to clean their writing instrument more frequently. Types of uses would include important documents or addressing envelopes.
• Shimmering Ink: Inks which contain fine, glitter-like particles which are typically silver or gold.  These particles add sparkle and flair, perfect for artistic expression or journaling. However, these inks require more frequent cleaning to prevent clogging.

Ink flow & drying time

The “wetness” or “dryness” of an ink affects how it flows through your pen.

• Wetter inks flow more quickly and smoothly and may be more prone to bleeding on certain papers.
• Drier inks are thicker and can take longer to dry. A dry ink may not be ideal for fast note-taking or left-handed writers.

Pen and paper compatibility

• Pen compatibility: Not all inks are suitable for all pens. Some pens are more sensitive to specific inks, and it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Paper Quality: The type of paper you use can significantly impact the ink’s appearance and behavior. Higher quality paper is better at resisting feathering and bleed-through.

Cleaning and maintenance

Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent clogging and maintain optimal ink flow. It’s recommended to clean your pen whenever changing ink colors or if it’s been left unused for an extended period.

• Flush your pen with clean water (distilled is recommended).
• A bulb syringe can be helpful for flushing out cartridges or converters.
• Soaking the nib and section in water for a few hours can help remove dried ink.
• For stubborn clogs, consider a pen flush solution.
• Always avoid using calligraphy ink or other non-fountain pen inks as they can clog and damage your pen.

Embracing exploration

The community of fountain pens and the inks available is huge and full of possibilities for personal expression. Don’t be afraid to play around with different colors and brands to find what works best for you and your pens. I have many different brands that I have tried, some I have liked better than others. I am still trying to figure out my favorite brand.  So much personal preference comes into play when choosing your ink. Colorful expression, does it work with the nib you chose? Some inks work well with fine nibs or better with medium or others. Start a sample page and keep track of your favorites.  This will allow you to refine your choices and make informed decisions for your writing journey.

By considering these factors and exploring the community of fountain pen inks, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect companions for your writing adventures. Happy writing!