Higgins Dye-Based Ink

[JaAmEater]

Higgins has a line of inks that is marketed as "dye-based" and is normally around $1-2 more than their Pigment-Based counterparts [Which definitely shouldn't go in FPs and I only dare to use in dip pens].

 

A few noticeable differences:

-The Dye-Based ink is not waterproof and feathers far more.

-In the bottle, the Dye-Based ink is transparent, unlike the Opaque/Solid-looking Pigment-Based ink.

 

Would this ink be safe to use in fountain pens? [Once again, note that this is an entire line of inks, not individual inks like the Calligraphy Sepia]

[Corona688]

Higgins usually contains shellac, so no.

[JaAmEater]

Yeah, I had that in the back of my mind as well. It seems people had luck with Higgins Sepia Calligraphy [Which is also Dye-Based] so I might try the ink in a cheap Chinese Fountain Pen I have...

[Corona688]

If you're successful that opens up possibilities. That's a big and cheap ink line!

[zephyrdeluxe]

As far as I know only the Higgins inks marked as waterproof contain shellac. Talk with your local art supply shop staff -- they can always double check with Chartpak (the US distributor) to be sure the ones you want to try are shellac-free.

 

I'm of the camp that if you want to experiment with a cheap pen give it a try and have fun. I steer my store's FP customers clear of all of Higgins' inks out of an abundance of caution, though.

Edited August 19, 2018 by zephyrdeluxe

[Turtlegeuse]

I have used these Higgins inks in my fountain pens with no ill effect: "Calligraphy", "Sepia Calligraphy", and "Fountain Pen India." Quoted because you must use caution when buying these as their packaging is eerily similar to some Higgins inks which are definitely not intended for use in fountain pens. I can't recommend the Calligraphy because of its horrible odor, but I can wholeheartedly recommend the latter two.

 

[Flaxmoore]

I use the Fountain Pen India at work. Pretty waterproof, doesn’t really feather, no bleed. Nice stuff.

[JaAmEater]

I have been using the Orange Higgins Dye-Based ink in a Jinhao pen, and have had no issues so far. It behaves like any other FP ink with no signs of clogging. [However, I wouldn't recommend trying this until more information is gathered.]

 

As far as I know only the Higgins inks marked as waterproof contain shellac. Talk with your local art supply shop staff -- they can always double check with Chartpak (the US distributor) to be sure the ones you want to try are shellac-free.

 

I'm of the camp that if you want to experiment with a cheap pen give it a try and have fun. I steer my store's FP customers clear of all of Higgins' inks out of an abundance of caution, though.

 

The inks I am talking about are not waterproof. I have also emailed Chartpak, but have not yet received a reply. I'll definitely consult with an art store. Thanks!

[zephyrdeluxe]

I have also emailed Chartpak, but have not yet received a reply.

 

From what I understand Chartpak is slow on replies at the moment, though hopefully they'll get back with you soon!

 

Chartpak acquired the Weber brand a few months ago. From the retailer side their reps are swamped with sorting out all sorts of ordering problems. Hopefully your local art shop can help if they take too long to respond.