Black Inks for Calligraphy

There are lots of different inks available. Probably the main difference is that some are waterproof and lightfast and others aren't. If you are just doing something to learn or practice, then the basic blacks are okay. For good quality work, especially something you are doing for a customer, you will want to use the better quality inks. Check for details on the following inks.

Pelikan 4001
This water-soluable, non-clogging ink is meant for fountain pens, but is also great for learning to use the dip pens. An intense, brilliant black.

Higgens Calligraphy Ink
A free-flowing ink. Can be used with dip pens or fountain pens. It is waterproof.

Higgens Eternal
A good ink for doing permanent work. It does tend to settle out a bit, so add a few small pebbles and 10-15 drops of gum arabic to the full bottle. Then shake well before each use.

Higgens & Gouache
For quality work, use Jet Black gouache (not Lamp Black) thinned out with Higgens Eternal ink.

Rich Black
Add a tiny squeeze of vermilion to your black to give a really rich-looking black.

Other Black Inks
Check these sections as well for other black inks:
India Inks
Sumi & Chinese Inks