What is the difference between drawing ink and fountain pen ink?

Octopus Fluids Write & Draw Inks are a unique combination of drawing ink and fountain pen ink. Typically, these two mediums differ in important properties, but the Write & Draw Inks bring together the best of both worlds. Drawing ink and fountain pen ink are colored liquids that are used for a variety of creative techniques, but here's what sets them apart:

What is drawing ink?

Basically, drawing inks are, of course, inks. However, in addition to the colouring pigment, drawing ink also contains a binder. This gives the underlying ink more substance and provides a subtle sheen after drying.
The best-known binder in drawing inks is probably shellac. Shellac is a resinous substance obtained from the excretions of aphids. But acrylic resins are also used as binders in ink.

What is fountain pen ink?

The classic fountain pen inks get their colour from water-soluble dyes. This makes them highly suitable for everyday use and they flow easily from the fountain pen nib. The fountain pen, but also the workplace or hands, are easy to clean. However, the writing should not come into contact with water. Light resistance is also rather low. Due to their field of application, however, this is usually not a problem, as documents written with fountain pen ink are rarely exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.

Dye-based fountain pen inks are available in countless colour variations: whether as sheen inks, duo shading or glitter inks, pastel or neon inks - really everyone will find their favourite colour here!

However, there are not only dye-based writing inks. There is now a wide range of pigmented inks, but these offer a smaller choice of colours. When using these, strict fountain pen hygiene must be observed, as the pigments contained can dry out in the fountain pen and clog its ink conductors.

When to use drawing ink and when to use fountain pen ink?

Both drawing ink and fountain pen ink can be used with calligraphy pens, dip pens, or brushes. However, using them in a fountain pen is reserved only for fountain pen inks, as the binding agent contained in the inks cannot flow through the pen's feed and can cause blockages.

The flow properties of these two media also differ: the thin fountain pen ink flows easily and smoothly from the nib and is partially absorbed by the paper, which can result in unwanted "feathering," especially on paper that is not suitable for fountain pens. In contrast, the binding agent in drawing ink keeps the ink in place on the paper even with a heavy application of color. This is particularly important in calligraphy, where a strong color application gives the downstrokes their dominant character.

How are Octopus Write & Draw Inks so special?

Our Write & Draw inks contain a fountain pen-friendly binder that does not affect the flow properties of the ink. This allows the ink to glide smoothly through the ink feed, but also to stay well on the paper. Thanks to this feature, you can create impressive calligraphic lettering and use the same color in your fountain pen.

Our Write & Draw inks also perform well when painting with a brush! You can use them for watercolor, mix and dilute colors.

And whether applied with a fountain pen, dip pen, or brush – the result is absolutely waterproof, extremely lightfast, and cannot be erased.

These features, combined with the exceptional luminosity of the 38 colors, make Octopus Write & Draw inks truly extraordinary!

 

Are there any restrictions on the use in the fountain pen?

Yes and No! You can use the Write & Draw Inks in your fountain pen without hesitation, as long as you take care not to let the ink dry up in the fountain pen. We therefore recommend that you clean your writing instrument thoroughly immediately after use. To be on the safe side, we also advise against using particularly expensive fountain pens for these reasons.

Write and Draw Ink Set, waterproof drawing ink for…

Octopus Write & Draw Ink, waterproof ink for fountain pen, nib and brush,…

199,95 € *
Content: 0.38 l (526.18 € per 1 l)

Write and Draw Ink 347 Black Elephant, waterproof…

Octopus Write & Draw Ink, waterproof ink for fountain pen, nib and brush,…

15,95 € *
Content: 0.05 l (319.00 € per 1 l)

Write and Draw Ink 100 White Polar Bear,…

Octopus Write & Draw Ink, waterproof ink for fountain pen, nib and brush,…

15,95 € *
Content: 0.05 l (319.00 € per 1 l)