Dear Inky - Inky T O D - Topic O' Day

[D B Holtz]

It would be much simpler to just get full bottles of each ink, and fill all of your pens with the same ink for a while, then flush them and fill with a new ink. That way there are only:

 

9 pens x 14 inks = 126 combinations to try.

 

But you are still stuck with deciding which pen to pick; I also know how hard that can be.

 

DB

[LizEF]

It would be much simpler to just get full bottles of each ink, and fill all of your pens with the same ink for a while, then flush them and fill with a new ink. That way there are only:

 

9 pens x 14 inks = 126 combinations to try.

 

But you are still stuck with deciding which pen to pick; I also know how hard that can be.

 

DB

 

Well, it would also be simpler to just get rid of my pens and ink and revert to ballpoints... I think I'll stick with the anxiety of too many choices.

 

But you are still stuck with deciding which pen to pick; I also know how hard that can be.

 

Hmm. Maybe we need a "Dear Peny" (Penny? Penne? FPy? Nibby?). Or not...

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

 

Santa brought (early) a Platinum 3776 Century Bourgogne (B of course) to me for Christmas. Right now I have that wonderful Blackstone Red Cashmere ink in it. I want to get a new bottle of ink to go with it. Something I don't have. It doesn't have to be matching, in fact I rarely match ink to pen body color. But I hadn't used this ink in a while, so it seemed like a good idea.

 

Some of the inks I do have:

Black - Noodler's, Black Cashmere

Blue Black - Pelikan 4001, Diamine, 54th Massachusetts, Sydney Harbour Blue

Turquoise-Diamine Steel Blue, KWZI IG Turquoise

Blue- Serenity Blue, Barrier Reef Blue, Shocking Blue, Blue Eel

Purple-Voorhout Violet, Sterling Violet (~8-10 ml)

Red-Pomegranate, Red Cashmere, Uluru Red, Classic Red

Green - Diamine Sherwood Green, Green Cashmere, Daintree Green

Orange- Apache Sunset

 

I want something different that will work not only with this gorgeous new pen, but with many of my others. I like inks of all different types. Shaders, sheeners, saturated. I have a few bulletproof or Iron gall inks, but it isn't a requirement. The Akkerman inks (Shocking Blue, Voorhout Violet) were a PIF I got some time ago - 2 15 ml Nalgene bottles of each. Probably have about half that of each.

 

Not sure what color family to get, let alone what ink. Any suggestions?

 

Dizzy

 

 

Dear Dizzy,

 

That's a beautiful pen. I know you don't normally match inks, but I do think we should send you over a few more amazing reds. I think you should ink up with JHerbin Rouge Hematite and De Atramentis Kermesin. (You may have samples of these in the recent Swinky Swap ink exchange). In your collection I noticed that you don't have in purple leaning blues - is there a reason? If not, may I suggest either Diamine Sargasso Sea it sheens and it's super saturated like many of your other colors. It's also a lot of fun for mixing and I can add posts for recipes. All that being said, if I were to whisper a few suggestions to your Santa, I'd recommend any of the following for you: Private Reserve Ebony Purple (it's a stealth black), Private Reserve DC American Blue (I prefer DCSS, but AB is a lot less fussy), De Atramentis Red Black (this ink looks purple on some papers, black on others and still red on others, it's pretty cool), Graf von Faber Castell Moss Green (if Santa is feeling a little flush), or Rohrer and Klinger Verdegris as another dark ink that is surprising.

 

Please, do let us know what Santa brings.

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

I find that I am obsessed with the colour Blue. Not just any Blue, but The Perfect Blue (TPB™). It has to be that Blue that is put down using Parker Penman Sapphire with a pen that has just the Perfect Wetness on paper with the Perfect Absorption so that one gets the Perfect Hue with the Perfect Degree of Shading.

 

No other colour is acceptable. If there is the slightest hint of purple or lean towards teal, my brain goes into such a tizz that a cup of tea and a good lie down may be necessary.

 

Is there any help for me?

 

Yours in obsession,

D

 

 

PS. Here in Aus we have a phenomenon called a "Dorothy Dixer".

Note the paragraph under History.

 

 

Dear Obsessive,

 

You can't fool me. You are enjoying the journey even more than the destination. For those of you who may not know, DC Waites was the individual who reviewed the staggering number of PPS comparisons. https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/293633-the-super-duper-co-razy-parker-penman-sapphire-comparison-psp/ Since DC has created 10 wonderful PPS alternatives, I'm pretty sure he's having a great time offering many of us a chance to try TPBs that work for us. If DC weren't having such a wonderful time, he would just use a single type of paper, write with the preferred pen and use the beloved PPS ink. As it is, we are all fortunate that DC has enabled many of us to try PPS AND different TPB mixes. So, my suggestion, keep obsessing, all of us are enjoying the inky journey.

 

Love, your Inky En Able Lawyer.

 

PS - Just to make sure I understand, since I didn't plant the question, it isn't actually a Dixer, right?

[amberleadavis]

Dear Waiting to draw parachutes & bird wings,

 

I'm replying on behalf of Inky, as s/he's busy wrapping up presents of bottles of inks to deliver to all the good little FPNers later this month.

 

Here's my post, showing Mb Red Chalk alongside the new, readily available & much much cheaper Monteverde Red Velvet. As I said in the post they aren't identical, but are very close.

I actually prefer the MV Red Velvet, as Leonardo is a bit too dry for me.

 

https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/278558-battle-of-the-inks-doppelgaenger-edition/?p=3725275

 

I hope this helps your sketching & inventing aspirations.

 

Yours

 

Inky's Little Helper

 

 

Oh thank you, Inky's Little Helper! That's great advice.

[amberleadavis]

 

I know that you don't have any there, but I have found that my Platinum 3776 Century Bourgogne (with Medium Nib) is the Perfect Pen for Dr Ph Martin's Ocean Edge Blue. The slip'n'seal cap stops the ink from drying out in the nib.

 

I would go for one of the Blackstone inks, Sydney Harbour Blue or Barrier Reef Blue, depending on your mood. I would think that the B nib would bring out the intensity and shading of these two inks. Also the Daintree Green or Uluru Red, which might be suitable for Christmas.

 

 

OOH yes, more inks that I really enjoy. Daintree Green is just lovely and I think you would enjoy it a lot.

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

 

I just got through watching the Deadpool movie for the 351st time, and found it every bit as hysterically funny as the first. But I have to wonder, if ol' Wade were to swap his swords for a pair of Franklin-Christoph Model 03 Iterums in black and maroon with 0.6mm Masumaya cursive-italic nibs (pens being mightier, and all that), and use those exclusively for all his witticisms and expressions of fourth-wall awareness, what are the top five colors of ink he would fill them with, by preference?

 

 

Oh dear, what would DeadPool do? For those of you who are not irreverent, rude, violent, crude and hostile, please ignore this response.

 

It would have to be crass. And wouldn't shrink in hot water. And over the top vibrant. SUPER saturated. And Retina Searing.

 

Noodler's Suffragist Carmine - Real busters embrace pink.

Noodler's BayState Blue - Well really, this could suit Wade more if it were named Not Your Tea.

Noodler's Midway Blue - Air Superiority and Kama Kazis.

Noodler's Polar Black - No Shrinking in COLD water either. (And it couldn't be HOD because really, Wade's a tender guy).

and finally, Private Reserve DC Super Show Violet because Wade had a mislabeled bottle and thought it was Super Show VioleNt.

[amberleadavis]

Dear Amber-Abbey,

 

Thank you for the thoughtful response. Yes, it is good that we have these more dynamic choices b/c I think it brings more people "into the fold" and as a relatively new fp user myself, I have to admit I find the choices we have staggeringly delightful.

 

I just don't want us to forget all the "Old Reliables" that stayed the course and paved the way for all the "New Dynamics." Am i nuts or does this make sense? O.o

 

Signed,

 

Not nearly so Sad, Sorry and Generally Confused as I was before,

 

Thanks Dear Amber-Abbey.

 

 

Dear Not So,

 

I'm glad to have been of help. Please also look at Migo's response as she is quite the Inkspert. I really believe that we are in the golden age of inks and now is the time to enjoy the grand selection! If you have never done so, buy some samples or even better trade samples with other FPNers and write some CRVs so that you can share the wonders of your inks. We are sure glad that you are here with us.

[inkstainedruth]

Dear Inky:

My ballpoint-using spouse thinks I have too much ink. To the point that he nows tell everyone that I only *used* to collect fountain pens, but now I *really am collecting ink....

And he may be right, because I have a bunch of samples I haven't had a chance to try yet -- but I still find myself reading the FPN ink reviews, going "Ooh, that's a nice color...." And honestly -- I can tell the difference at a *glance* between Yama-budo and original formula BSiAR....

What should I do? (Not about the husband -- he does most of the cooking and I'd starve to death otherwise....)

signed

Fell Down the Ink Rabbit-hole...

[chromantic]

Dear Inky,

Some of my co-workers expressed interest in the colored inks I was using in my fountain pens. I gifted a couple with pens and pink carts, while others started using colorful gel pens (green, orange turquoise, purple). After 2 or 3 weeks, their department managers got real snippy about it and prescribed using only "legally valid" blue or black ink. Fortunately, I work for a different manager and I can do what I want (which I suspect played a part in this decision).

I feel bad for my co-workers.

signed

bad influence

[mhguda]

Dear Inky,

 

Thinking to spread the obsession of pen and ink I went to the only B&M store around here that sells them, only to find that they have decided to no longer offer even Parker Quink bottles. Only cartridges are left, because, as the sales clerk said, "This is now the only way to put ink in your fountain pen".

Since I have already provided more than a dozen students with piston fillers, this will NOT do!

How can I get my ink purveyors back on the right track?

 

signed

Stranded on an Ink Desert Island...

[Flaxmoore]

Dear Inky,

 

Having poor luck finding ink purveyors that actually have a reliable source for ink and a brick and mortar location. Used to be OfficeMax before the merger made them OfficeOffice, they at least had a Parker Quink or two. What's your recommendation for a chain store that can reliably be counted on to have ink?

 

Your Obedient Servant,

Harried in Hockeytown

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky:

My ballpoint-using spouse thinks I have too much ink. To the point that he nows tell everyone that I only *used* to collect fountain pens, but now I *really am collecting ink....

And he may be right, because I have a bunch of samples I haven't had a chance to try yet -- but I still find myself reading the FPN ink reviews, going "Ooh, that's a nice color...." And honestly -- I can tell the difference at a *glance* between Yama-budo and original formula BSiAR....

What should I do? (Not about the husband -- he does most of the cooking and I'd starve to death otherwise....)

signed

Fell Down the Ink Rabbit-hole...

 

 

Dear Fell Down,

 

You have my complete empathy. First let me advise against hiding the inks. Nothing good will come of this sort of deception. Second, if you find that you are beating up teenagers for their lunch money to fund your ink purchases, then you need to seek professional help.

 

I'm sure you have already tried the simple solution: Convert the wonderful (since he cooks) husband to the amazing world of ink. Since he uses ballpoints you probably can't convince him to change over to FPs but have you considered the old stylographic pens or the modern rollerballs that use FP ink? One concern, he might want to use your ink.

 

Second Option: As him if he prefers an equally colorful shoe habit. 1 pair Christian Louboutin Ha Why shoes $995. Now, they do take up a lot less room than say 585 ink samples. Given that the 585 ink samples should distract you for about 585 hours, that's a great investment. Now, don't forget that the shoes will require you to have the appropriate place to go, the appropriate outfit for you AND he will need to escort you in an equally colorful outfit. (That should make him quake in his otherwise reasonably soled shoes).

 

 

http://shoerazzi.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Christian-Louboutin-Spring-2016-Ha-Why-Luna-Sandal.jpg?x15038

 

Option Three: Barter. Buy him a pasta maker that he wants *only if you like pasta* in return for no comments about the equal dollar value of inks.

 

 

Now, I'm certain these are not the only options you have, but hopefully this has provided a giggle.

 

Sincerely,

 

Inky, who would love a set of such colorful heels and would promise to wear them to court.

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

Some of my co-workers expressed interest in the colored inks I was using in my fountain pens. I gifted a couple with pens and pink carts, while others started using colorful gel pens (green, orange turquoise, purple). After 2 or 3 weeks, their department managers got real snippy about it and prescribed using only "legally valid" blue or black ink. Fortunately, I work for a different manager and I can do what I want (which I suspect played a part in this decision).

I feel bad for my co-workers.

signed

bad influence

 

Dear Good Influence,

 

You have done a lot for your company. Turns out that those pesky colors improve memory, cognitive responses, behavior and even employee productivity. As for the "legally valid" colors, I sign legal documents in serious color like Cape Cod Cranberry and Suffragist Carmine, though I do also use somber colors like KTC (that never fades) and either Luxury Blue or Proctor's Ledge for mortgages (because it's a personal statement and I always know my originals by the UV properties).

 

So, my suggestion, start leaving out articles about the wonders of color, and do not transfer managers.

 

Yours in color, Inky.

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

 

Thinking to spread the obsession of pen and ink I went to the only B&M store around here that sells them, only to find that they have decided to no longer offer even Parker Quink bottles. Only cartridges are left, because, as the sales clerk said, "This is now the only way to put ink in your fountain pen".

Since I have already provided more than a dozen students with piston fillers, this will NOT do!

How can I get my ink purveyors back on the right track?

 

signed

Stranded on an Ink Desert Island...

 

 

Dear Gilligan,

 

I'm afraid that you are going to have to step up and become the professor. Since you cannot easily acquire the inks, it's time for you to either teach the kids to make ink (Remember when the Professor recharged the radio batteries?). Since that is a little difficult, have you considered becoming an ink retailer on your Desert Island? You know a whole lot more about pens and inks than anyone at your local B&M. Also, consider asking your local retailer to carry an ink brand which may be obtained in smaller quantities. (KWZI or RO).

 

Should you decide to make coconut ink, please let me be a tester.

 

Sincerely,

 

InkyAnne

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

 

Having poor luck finding ink purveyors that actually have a reliable source for ink and a brick and mortar location. Used to be OfficeMax before the merger made them OfficeOffice, they at least had a Parker Quink or two. What's your recommendation for a chain store that can reliably be counted on to have ink?

 

Your Obedient Servant,

Harried in Hockeytown

 

Dear Harried,

 

Regrettably, even in Sin City a town known for it's love of color, ink purveyors are limited to those of MB variety. Here too, OfficeOffice no longer carries Quink and electronics giant, Fry's no longer carries Monteverde. I have had occasional success at small art supply stores. While the larger hobby stores often carry Windsor inks, I have found that local stores will carry other brands. Thus, for major retailers, try art supply or hobby shops.

 

The great news - you can get ink shipped to you from some amazing online retailers, and don't forget group buys.

 

Oh, and don't forget to go to pen shows. I've been able to buy some great inks at the shows.

 

Sincerely,

 

Missing my local pen store too.

[amberleadavis]

http://www.sheismylawyer.com/2016_2_Ink/12-December/slides/2016-12-05-Inks_48.jpghttp://www.sheismylawyer.com/2016_2_Ink/12-December/slides/2016-12-05-Inks_46.jpghttp://www.sheismylawyer.com/2016_2_Ink/12-December/slides/2016-12-05-Inks_45.jpg

[richila]

Dear Inky,

One of my pen-pals wrote to me in Diamine Sherwood Green on cream/ivory paper. On the same day, I was able to find a sale on an 80 ml bottle of the ink and get it with shipping for less than $15. It arrived quickly and I have become totally besotted with this ink. It is currently in three pens: a fine, a fine medium and a home grind stub. I have written two letters in only one ink color! Is there any hope for me?

 

Besotted with the perfect green

[amberleadavis]

Dear Inky,

One of my pen-pals wrote to me in Diamine Sherwood Green on cream/ivory paper. On the same day, I was able to find a sale on an 80 ml bottle of the ink and get it with shipping for less than $15. It arrived quickly and I have become totally besotted with this ink. It is currently in three pens: a fine, a fine medium and a home grind stub. I have written two letters in only one ink color! Is there any hope for me?

 

Besotted with the perfect green

 

Dear Besotted,

 

What's the problem? Well, maybe you should buy another bottle, and perhaps a green pen in the same color?

 

Inky

[amberleadavis]

 

Dear Good Influence,

 

You have done a lot for your company. Turns out that those pesky colors improve memory, cognitive responses, behavior and even employee productivity. As for the "legally valid" colors, I sign legal documents in serious color like Cape Cod Cranberry and Suffragist Carmine, though I do also use somber colors like KTC (that never fades) and either Luxury Blue or Proctor's Ledge for mortgages (because it's a personal statement and I always know my originals by the UV properties).

 

So, my suggestion, start leaving out articles about the wonders of color, and do not transfer managers.

 

Yours in color, Inky.

 

 

Oh, just to follow up, I signed a sale agreement on behalf of a client. We put serious thought into the ink choice. Today it was Momiji. And yes, it's a "Legally Valid" color here in Nevada.