Dilute To Decrease Dry Time?

[Kvothe_011]

Would diluting an ink (decanted into a separate container) with distilled water decrease the ink's dry time? That is, reduce the amount of time it takes for the ink to fully dry as to prevent smearing. I've read about some people suggesting dilution to "increase dry time" and I'm unclear about whether this means the drying rate of the ink will increase, or if the amount of time it takes to dry will increase.

 

Also, what ratio of water:ink would yield the best results? I'm considering diluting my Noodler's Black, and some people suggest 10-50%. What is the optimal dilution percentage that would make the ink dry faster but still leave the bulletproof properties and feather resistant qualities intact? I don't know if it's strictly relevant but I am using a Pilot Metropolitan <M> on cheap loose leaf paper.

 

I know this is a lot to ask, but any answers, insights, or past experiences are really helpful. Thanks!

[OCArt]

Adding water will dilute the surfactants in the ink which will make the ink dryer in the sense that it will be less free-flowing from the pen. I do not know if it will change the time it takes the ink to dry on the paper.

[Arkanabar]

This has reduced smudging for me in a couple of Noodler's inks. It doesn't take much.

[Kvothe_011]

Thanks, I'll try it when I change inks.

[antichresis]

Yup, this works. I followed (and modified) Faux Penman Sapphire #9 and ended up with a Majestic Blue that is way way way better behaved. It can kill sheen though, in my experience. There is no set ratio. Make your own mix