Convert Fp Ink To Dip Pen Ink

[RudyR]

OK. I tried the search function but it failed to bring up anything on any recipes for converting fountain pen ink to dip pen ink. Most of the inks I have on hand are really a bit too watery. I've got way to much FP ink but since I began using dip pens I think I can go through them faster now.

 

What do I do?

[lgsoltek]

Add a bit of Gum Arabic in it.

[Luma]

Set aside a sample vials worth in the fridge. Leave cap on but not screwed on the threads. It will evaporate a bit. I usually leave mine overnight.

 

Just my opinion but... I think it is much better than gum arabic. I despise gum arabic.

[RudyR]

Whats the problem with gum arabic?

[Luma]

Gum arabic can cause the inks to look a bit pale. This is a no no for me. There is also not a specified amount that it requires so it takes a bit of testing and will vary from ink to ink.

 

Also, some inks have ingredients that will either restrict flow or increase it. The gum arabic is considered an organic material so you may also see that it will react with these ingredients.

 

Lgsoltek has way more patience than I do... as noted by all the marvelous reviews.

[RudyR]

Thanks for the info. Looks like I will need to do some science. Horraay

[haruka337]

Set aside a sample vials worth in the fridge. Leave cap on but not screwed on the threads. It will evaporate a bit. I usually leave mine overnight.

Just my opinion but... I think it is much better than gum arabic. I despise gum arabic.

Oh wow. Thanks for the tip LuMA!

[ac12]

I dunno. I use ALL my FP inks with my dip pens.

It might be that you need to CLEAN your dip pen nib better.

I found that I have to do a final wipe with alcohol to make some FP inks stick to the nib. I don't know what the alcohol does, but for me, that works.

Edited February 18, 2016 by ac12

[lgsoltek]

Gum arabic can cause the inks to look a bit pale. This is a no no for me. There is also not a specified amount that it requires so it takes a bit of testing and will vary from ink to ink.

 

Also, some inks have ingredients that will either restrict flow or increase it. The gum arabic is considered an organic material so you may also see that it will react with these ingredients.

 

Lgsoltek has way more patience than I do... as noted by all the marvelous reviews.

 

 

I find that I need only a tiny amount of Gum Arabic to make inks viscous enough for dip pens, and it doesn't change the colour.

I put ink in a 5ml vial and add a little Gum Arabic, then I shake the vial violently. I test it until I get the right "feeling".