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 fountain pens, 38 colours
Write and Draw Ink Set, waterproof drawing ink for fountain pens, 38 colours

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

The Octopus Write & Draw inks are unique, smudge-proof and waterproof writing and drawing inks in a wide range of colours. They were developed for daily use in fountain pens and are also popular with graphic artists, illustrators, calligraphers and artists for writing, sketching, drawing and colouring with calligraphy pens, glass pens or brushes.

Each of the 38 brilliant shades inspires with its intense colour power thanks to its high, balanced pigmentation. In addition to a deep black and various shades of grey, the extensive colour palette also includes a particularly opaque white, which can be used on dark backgrounds.

During the development of the drawing ink, special attention was paid to its use in the fountain pen. The use of the finest colour pigments in a carefully balanced formula ensures high light fastness and a good, even ink flow without clogging the ink duct of the fountain pen. These pigmented writing inks also feature the excellent writing behaviour of the classic Octopus fountain pen inks. The Write & Draw drawing ink meets the requirements for document-proof ink according to DIN ISO 12757-2 and DIN ISO 14145-2 and is produced exclusively with vegan ingredients.
 
Writing enthusiasts love the razor-sharp typeface that can be achieved on fountain pen-suitable paper and the pleasant shading of the Write & Draw writing ink. Calligraphers can create the finest hairlines and impressive flourishing elements, while urban sketchers can draw precise outlines.

The ink dries waterproof in a very short time and can then be painted over with another shade of Octopus Write & Draw ink or watercolour. It is eraser-proof and most of the colours are also highlighter-proof.

Both pure and diluted with water, Octopus Write & Draw ink is excellent for colouring. Used undiluted, the waterproof ink convinces with its opacity. The many colours of Octopus drawing ink can be mixed with each other, but also with water. In this way, countless colour shades can be achieved for beautiful watercolour effects.

Unlike most other waterproof inks, Octopus Write & Draw can be used in a fountain pen without hesitation. However, care should be taken not to let the fountain pen dry out. We therefore recommend that you rinse and clean your writing instrument carefully after use to prevent the ink from drying up accidentally.

The Octopus special cleaner for pigmented inks is available for cleaning your writing Instruments.

Content:   ( € /  )
Write and Draw Ink 347 Black Elephant, waterproof drawing ink for fountain pens, 50ml
Write and Draw Ink 347 Black Elephant, waterproof drawing ink for fountain pens, 50ml

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

The Octopus Write & Draw inks are unique, smudge-proof and waterproof writing and drawing inks in a wide range of colours. They were developed for daily use in fountain pens and are also popular with graphic artists, illustrators, calligraphers and artists for writing, sketching, drawing and colouring with calligraphy pens, glass pens or brushes.

Each of the 38 brilliant shades inspires with its intense colour power thanks to its high, balanced pigmentation. In addition to a deep black and various shades of grey, the extensive colour palette also includes a particularly opaque white, which can be used on dark backgrounds.

During the development of the drawing ink, special attention was paid to its use in the fountain pen. The use of the finest colour pigments in a carefully balanced formula ensures high light fastness and a good, even ink flow without clogging the ink duct of the fountain pen. These pigmented writing inks also feature the excellent writing behaviour of the classic Octopus fountain pen inks. The Write & Draw drawing ink meets the requirements for document-proof ink according to DIN ISO 12757-2 and DIN ISO 14145-2 and is produced exclusively with vegan ingredients.
 
Writing enthusiasts love the razor-sharp typeface that can be achieved on fountain pen-suitable paper and the pleasant shading of the Write & Draw writing ink. Calligraphers can create the finest hairlines and impressive flourishing elements, while urban sketchers can draw precise outlines.

The ink dries waterproof in a very short time and can then be painted over with another shade of Octopus Write & Draw ink or watercolour. It is eraser-proof and most of the colours are also highlighter-proof.

Both pure and diluted with water, Octopus Write & Draw ink is excellent for colouring. Used undiluted, the waterproof ink convinces with its opacity. The many colours of Octopus drawing ink can be mixed with each other, but also with water. In this way, countless colour shades can be achieved for beautiful watercolour effects.

Unlike most other waterproof inks, Octopus Write & Draw can be used in a fountain pen without hesitation. However, care should be taken not to let the fountain pen dry out. The water resistance of Write & Draw Inks is created with the help of a cross-linking binder, which cannot be easily dissolved when dry. We therefore recommend that you rinse and clean your writing instrument carefully after use to prevent the ink from drying up accidentally.
The Octopus special cleaner for pigmented inks is available for cleaning your writing Instruments.

Content:   ( € /  )
Write and Draw Ink 100 White Polar Bear, waterproof drawing ink for fountain pens, 50ml
Write and Draw Ink 100 White Polar Bear, waterproof drawing ink for fountain pens, 50ml

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

The Octopus Write & Draw inks are unique, smudge-proof and waterproof writing and drawing inks in a wide range of colours. They were developed for daily use in fountain pens and are also popular with graphic artists, illustrators, calligraphers and artists for writing, sketching, drawing and colouring with calligraphy pens, glass pens or brushes.

Each of the 38 brilliant shades inspires with its intense colour power thanks to its high, balanced pigmentation. In addition to a deep black and various shades of grey, the extensive colour palette also includes a particularly opaque white, which can be used on dark backgrounds.

During the development of the drawing ink, special attention was paid to its use in the fountain pen. The use of the finest colour pigments in a carefully balanced formula ensures high light fastness and a good, even ink flow without clogging the ink duct of the fountain pen. These pigmented writing inks also feature the excellent writing behaviour of the classic Octopus fountain pen inks. The Write & Draw drawing ink meets the requirements for document-proof ink according to DIN ISO 12757-2 and DIN ISO 14145-2 and is produced exclusively with vegan ingredients.
 
Writing enthusiasts love the razor-sharp typeface that can be achieved on fountain pen-suitable paper and the pleasant shading of the Write & Draw writing ink. Calligraphers can create the finest hairlines and impressive flourishing elements, while urban sketchers can draw precise outlines.

The ink dries waterproof in a very short time and can then be painted over with another shade of Octopus Write & Draw ink or watercolour. It is eraser-proof and most of the colours are also highlighter-proof.

Both pure and diluted with water, Octopus Write & Draw ink is excellent for colouring. Used undiluted, the waterproof ink convinces with its opacity. The many colours of Octopus drawing ink can be mixed with each other, but also with water. In this way, countless colour shades can be achieved for beautiful watercolour effects.

Unlike most other waterproof inks, Octopus Write & Draw can be used in a fountain pen without hesitation. However, care should be taken not to let the fountain pen dry out. The water resistance of Write & Draw Inks is created with the help of a cross-linking binder, which cannot be easily dissolved when dry. We therefore recommend that you rinse and clean your writing instrument carefully after use to prevent the ink from drying up accidentally.
The Octopus special cleaner for pigmented inks is available for cleaning your writing Instruments.

Content:   ( € /  )