India Inks for Calligraphy

Nowadays India ink is typically made from soot (carbon) and uses shellac as a binder. The use of the shellac makes it unsuitable for fountain pens as it will gum up the pen. India ink is also known as Chinese ink, as it is believed that it first originated in China, but became known as India ink because it was imported via the Indies.

The ink also comes in a solid form, which we know as Chinese Ink Sticks, used for Sumi-e.

Black Cat Waterproof India Ink
A dense, opaque, pigmented ink that can be used in technical pens and airbrushes. It is permanent and won't smear or fade.

Sennelier India Ink
An intensely black, indelible ink. Free-flowing and non-clogging. Waterproof and lightfast. Use with dip pens or brushes.

Speedball Super Black Waterproof India Ink
A free-flowing, non-clogging ink. Contains 100% carbon black pigment. Waterproof and permanent. WOn't fade.

Higgins Waterproof Black Magic Ink
A semi-flat, intensely black opaque ink. Waterproof and permanent. Acid-free. Can be used in technical pens and airbrushes.