Fountain pen inks can be classified into two categories: Pigment inks and Iron Gall inks. Pigmented inks contain solid pigment particles in suspension and can produce various saturated hues but require more upkeep and maintenance than standard fountain pens. Most fountain pen inks are far from permanent, as there is no reason for them to be. However, some writers may need a permanent and/or waterproof ink.
Permanent inks come in all kinds of pens, with the most iconic being the permanent marker. They are used to label different surfaces with waterproof, abrasion-resistant writing. When considering permanent vs. standard ink for regular, everyday use with fountain pens or dip pens, they are equally usable. Some permanent inks can effectively be erased by water, while “document” ink or “indelible” ink generally means that water will not be able to erase the ink, although it will often smear or run.
There are different types of permanent inks, which have one or more of the following properties: waterproof; permanence; UV resistance; fraud resistance; archival quality. Permanence is simply how long an ink stays on the page. To help you be cautious, consider the following inks: waterproof, permanent or document inks; purple inks; red or dark pink inks; highly saturated inks; inks from more on-the-go inks.
When considering permanent vs. standard ink for regular, everyday use with fountain pens or dip pens, they are equally usable. Fountain pen ink can last decades, if even longer, on paper, as seen from older documents that can still be read. Unlike pencil or erasable ink, permanent ink soaks into the paper it is used on.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent vs. Standard Ink: Comparing Fountain Pen Inks | When considering permanent vs. standard ink for regular, everyday use with your fountain pens or dip pens, we think they are equally usable. You … | penchalet.com |
| Which inks are permanent or waterproof? | Which inks are permanent or waterproof? Most fountain pen inks are far from permanent simply because there is no reason for them to be. | thewritingdesk.co.uk |
| Permanent fountain pen inks for ink & wash sketching | Most permanent inks are not designed to be put into fountain pens as the pigments and other ingredients can totally clog up and ruin the feed of the fountain … | lizsteel.com |
📹 What Is ISO Standard Ink Permanent Ink Put To The test
Fountain Pen users use inks which claim properties such as waterproof, permanent and bulletproof, but for most inks, there is no …
Can You Put Permanent Ink In A Pen?
When using permanent inks in fountain pens, maintenance becomes crucial. Dye-based inks can usually be cleaned out with water if they dry inside the pen. In contrast, high-quality pigment inks, such as Sailor Sei-Boku, Platinum Carbon Black, and DeAtramentis Document Black, remain safe in pens for extended periods, provided the nib and feed do not dry out from being left uncapped. For a safe experience with permanent ink, opt for a black fountain pen that uses refillable cartridges and has removable feeds and nibs.
If you plan on carrying your fountain pen in your pocket for signing purposes, it’s advisable to use permanent ink. Cartridge refilling is expected, and depending on whether you use low-maintenance or high-maintenance ink, cleaning times will vary: low-maintenance inks can often delay cleaning for months, while high-maintenance inks require cleaning after one to two weeks to avoid issues.
While fountain pens can use various inks, not all are permanent. Most inks do not need to be permanent, but sometimes a permanent or waterproof option is necessary. Be cautious with waterproof inks, as not all are safe for fountain pens. Inks containing nano-particles or cellulose-reactive dyes create challenges, particularly around cleaning and potential damage to materials.
Nathan Tardiff has noted that Noodler's Black is easy to clean and pH neutral, but it can react with cotton or unvarnished surfaces due to its cellulose-reactive nature. For everyday writing, many prefer using permanent gel pens, ballpoint pens, or fountain pen ink alongside their preferred fountain pens. When selecting permanent inks, consider factors like washability and fading potential, as permanent inks may clog pens or leave difficult residues.
It’s crucial to avoid using India ink in fountain pens, as it contains shellac that can create clogging issues. Printer inks are also unsuitable due to their different compositions. Instead, opt for organic solvent-based inks for non-fountain pen applications. Permanent inks are versatile and are a common choice for various writing tools, with the permanent marker being the most recognizable example.
What Pens Do You Use For Permanent Writing?
Permanent inks are available in various types of pens, with the permanent marker being the most recognizable for labeling surfaces due to its waterproof and abrasion-resistant qualities. However, for writing on paper, options include permanent gel pens, ballpoint pens, rollerball pens, and fountain pen ink. Gel pens are known for their precision and come in numerous colors, while rollerballs and fineliners offer smooth writing experiences; the latter typically writes thinner lines.
After extensive research and testing of over 30 pens, we have curated a guide highlighting the 11 best pens focused on writers' needs, encompassing smooth gel pens, reliable ballpoints, and luxury fountain pens. Among our favorites are a mix of luxury and everyday choices, reflecting our extensive experience with various pens. Individual preferences also play a role; for instance, some people favor ballpoint pens for quick notes, while others lean toward gel pens for bullet journaling or fountain pens for personal journaling.
Recommended pens from professional writers include the Paper Mate Flair, Sharpie Fine Point Pen, and the classic BIC Round Stic Xtra. Exploring the 10 most popular pens for drawing, note-taking, and writing will help you find your ideal tool. Notable retailers like Amazon, Ryman, and Moleskine offer a range of writing instruments suitable for everything from bestselling novels to simple shopping lists.
Highlighted for their permanent qualities, various felt-tipped markers like Sharpie and Sakura Pigma Micron pens use pigment inks that are both permanent and waterproof, ideal for daily writing and art. Universal markers can write on virtually any surface, with options like the Pilot Permanent Marker 100 and Sharpie PRO being particularly noteworthy.
Are Pen Ink Stains Permanent?
Ink stains can be quite bothersome, especially when they mar your favorite clothes. Fortunately, they are typically removable with the right cleaning products and techniques, particularly if you act swiftly. Effective methods like proper pretreating and utilizing warm wash cycles can significantly help in removing these marks. Ink stains erupting from sources like pens do not have to be a permanent issue; they can be cleaned off from various surfaces around the house. Resources such as COIT's step-by-step guides can provide you with methods suited for different materials.
The notion that ink is always permanent is somewhat exaggerated, as it can typically be removed unless it penetrates the skin layers. If, for instance, you find your fingers stained with ink like Baystate Blue, the concern is often overstated. It’s noted from Birmingham Pen Co. that permanent inks require attentive handling, as they can stain pen barrels, which may deter their use. Permanent inks mostly fall under two classifications: pigment inks and iron gall inks. Pigment inks consist of solid particles in suspension and can produce persistent stains.
Should you encounter persistent clogs or stains, soaking the feed and nib of the pen in water overnight may help. If issues continue after a standard cleaning routine, additional cleaning measures can be implemented. Pigment inks can leave residues that darken your pen’s ink window, albeit they are not intended to bind permanently due to their non-soluble nature.
If your pen leaks, signs include noticing ink spots on your fingers or cap. The permanence of ink from felt-tip pens largely depends on the ink type, with oil- and alcohol-based inks being more resistant to removal. Regarding removing ink marks from paper, substances such as hairspray, rubbing alcohol, or nail polish remover dabbed on a cotton ball can be effective.
Among different ink types, ballpoint ink—characterized by a blend of dyes and grease—presents a thick, oily stain, while water-based ink from fountain pens or gel pens is thinner and typically easier to remove. Permanent inks are the most challenging, sometimes requiring specialized removers or professional dry cleaning for effective removal.
Yet, with techniques like applying rubbing alcohol or creating a baking soda mixture, many ink stains can be tackled successfully. The inks commonly used in various pens today might be permanent dyes, making their removal a challenge. Nevertheless, repeating a pretreatment method involving hand sanitizer and machine washing can yield positive results, emphasizing that while ink stains may seem daunting, they are often manageable with the right cleaning strategies and timeliness.
Are Fountain Pen Inks Permanent?
Most fountain pen inks are not permanent, mainly because there hasn’t been a strong need for them to be. However, users sometimes seek permanent or waterproof options. A variety of permanent inks is available, and the array of colors continues to expand. Properly stored fountain pen ink can remain usable for dozens of years, with unopened bottles lasting over 60 years. The trend is more common in fountain pen inks compared to ballpoint inks, mostly due to their different chemical compositions.
For beginners, it’s advisable to avoid permanent inks until they have more experience. Permanent inks can complicate cleaning, as they may dry up inside the pen and create maintenance issues. The majority of contemporary fountain pen inks are not designed to be permanent, emphasizing the benefits of washable inks. While some inks exhibit greater water resistance, none can be considered entirely permanent since they are water-based, which is essential for proper fountain pen function.
Understanding ink cartridges is crucial for fountain pen users, enhancing performance, personalizing writing, and preventing leaks. If permanence is essential, gel pens, ballpoint pens, or specialized fountain pen inks may be preferred for daily writing tasks. Waterproof and permanent inks can pose challenges for novice users; they often require more frequent pen cleaning, can dry out quickly, and may have starting issues.
Although many inks lack permanence, there are specialized products developed recently that cater to the need for durability, using finely ground pigments. Pigment-based inks are mostly waterproof after drying and can be a good choice for those looking for lasting results. Users should always check labels for permanence; while some inks marketed as "Washable" exist, others are identified as waterproof and permanent fountain pen inks.
In summary, while the majority of fountain pen inks are not permanent, various options exist for those who require more durable inks, although careful consideration and knowledge about their properties are essential for optimal use.
Does Ink Go Bad If Not Used?
While ink itself does not have an expiration date, it can eventually become unusable depending on storage and usage conditions, potentially lasting anywhere from 5 to 50 years. Properly stored fountain pen ink should remain viable until the last drop, except for iron-gall inks, which may oxidize into insoluble precipitate. Printer ink, including both inkjet and toner cartridges, also has a shelf life and can expire. Inkjet inks expire and can damage printers if used past their expiration, while toner cartridges tend to function well beyond their listed dates.
The lifespan of ink and cartridges is influenced by several factors, including how they are stored and packaged. Unused ink cartridges, if properly stored, can last about two to three years, but printer ink can deteriorate rapidly if not used within 12 months, particularly for refilled or remanufactured cartridges, which typically have a shorter shelf life. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) inks generally remain effective for about two years, while compatible inks may last up to three years.
To prevent clogging of print heads when not in use, it is suggested to store cartridges in airtight packaging, although this method is more labor-intensive than simply printing periodically. While attempting to use expired cartridges is not detrimental to printers, dry cartridges may result in failed print jobs. It's recommended to use ink cartridges regularly to maintain their functionality, as they can dry up quickly if used infrequently.
In summary, while ink does not expire like perishable goods, both fountain pen and printer inks can become unusable after extended periods without proper storage. Therefore, maintaining ideal conditions for storage and regular usage is key for preserving ink quality and ensuring optimal printer performance.
Can Pen Ink Disappear?
The ink from Pilot FriXion pens can be erased through heat exposure, such as warm water, a hot car, or fire, as it turns clear at 140°F (60°C) and regains color at 40°F (4°C). For removing pen ink from paper, a high-quality Whiteout product is often the most reliable option, though some prefer alternatives. Acetone or nail polish remover works effectively for ink removal, while ballpoint ink, despite fading over time, can endure for decades under proper storage conditions. Factors like time and ultraviolet (UV) light exposure contribute to the fading of ballpoint ink.
There are several methods to remove ink from paper: using a Q-Tip soaked in solvents like brake fluid or acetone, and a simple combination of warm water and an iron; the latter involves applying water to the ink stain and lightly pressing with a warm iron. Alternatives include rubber erasers, correction fluid, tape, and gouache. DIY methods that could lead to a mess should be avoided.
Interestingly, erasable ink pens inherently do not erase ink but render it invisible through a friction-induced temperature increase. Yet, not all types of ink are affected by heat or sunlight; some permanent or waterproof inks resist fading. While friction pens utilize heat-sensitive ink that appears black when writing in a temperature range of 15°F to 140°F, exposure to heat creates the illusion of "erasing." To ensure proper ink management, users should be cautious about direct sunlight exposure to avoid fading.
In summary, various effective techniques exist for removing ink stains, and while heat-sensitive pens offer unique properties, care should be taken with different ink types regarding their resistance to fading and removal methods.
Can Ink Expire On A Pen?
In general, fountain pens do not have an expiration date; however, some manufacturers label their inks with an expiration date, which can often last for decades if properly stored. In contrast, ballpoint and rollerball inks typically dry out after about four years if not used. A recent experience revealed that a bottle of ink received had a production date label and indicated it would expire three years post-production. While it's unusual for ink to have a definitive expiration date, certain inks may fade or change color over time.
Thanks to the careful manufacturing process aimed at preventing bacterial contamination, fountain pen ink tends to have an extensive shelf life, potentially lasting anywhere from 10 to 60 years. Despite this, using expired ink could lead to performance issues and possible damage to fountain pens. Unopened bottles of fountain pen ink can maintain their quality for decades.
The typical shelf life of most fountain pen inks falls within the 10 to 60-year range, making proper storage essential for preserving ink quality. It is crucial to note that although some inks can last remarkably long, regular use plays a significant role in maximizing the longevity of the ink in a pen.
For drawing pens, the average ink lifespan is roughly two years, influenced by factors like the ink type, usage frequency, and storage conditions. For best results, if pens are used routinely, a single ink refill or cartridge can last significantly longer.
In summary, while most fountain pen inks do not expire, various conditions affect their usability. Proper storage, such as keeping inks out of direct light and ensuring they are sealed correctly, can help maintain their longevity. Conversely, ballpoint pen inks may not last as long due to their formulation, which includes additives to prevent drying. In any case, long-term storage of pens filled with ink is generally not advisable, but with proper care, ink can remain functional for many years, whether it’s vintage or modern.
Which Ink Is Best For Writing On Paper?
When writing on paper, selecting a suitable pen and ink is crucial, especially if you prefer a fountain pen. Permanent gel, ballpoint, rollerball, or fountain pen inks can enhance your writing experience. The choice of ink also depends on its permanence characteristics, such as washability and resistance to fading. For heavier stock that handles fountain pen ink well, Write Notepads offers highly absorbent paper in their spiral notebooks and journals.
Tomoe River paper from Japan is renowned for its silky smooth texture and durability, despite being ultra-thin at 52 g/m2. While it can wrinkle if handled too roughly, it resists ripping and tearing effectively.
There’s a distinctive pleasure in using a fountain pen on Tomoe River, though sometimes the type of paper available dictates our choice. Sailor Kiwa-Guro Nano-Black is a recommended ink, albeit at a higher price point, which has become more affordable recently. Fountain pen-friendly paper typically comes in white, off-white, or cream, while testing various inks may be best done on white paper.
This guide presents five budget-friendly inks that perform well on various paper types. Fountain pens are known for their variability, sometimes rejecting paper labeled as "fountain-pen friendly." The article highlights nine superior papers guaranteed to improve your fountain pen experience, showcasing factors like ink absorption and writing smoothness. After extensive research of 62 pens and hands-on experience with 37, viable recommendations for affordable ballpoint, rollerball, and fineliner pens were compiled.
For inks that provide longevity and smooth application, archival or pigment-based options like Diamine Oxford Blue and Pelikan 4001 are ideal, particularly for inexpensive paper. Midori’s "MD" and "Cotton" lines prove effective with fountain pens, and the Classic Sharpie Marker won praise for its performance on paper due to its quick-drying ink. Overall, Tomoe River’s coated varieties stand out as the top choice among fountain pen users.
Will Disappearing Ink Stain?
Invisible ink, also known as security ink or sympathetic ink, can indeed stain, primarily through temperature-sensitive markings that may reappear on imported clothing. These markers resemble regular pens but use a non-permanent, usually blue ink that can be removed with water. They often have two sides for line thickness variations. Although the ink doesn't entirely dissolve, it becomes translucent when damp, explaining why it can seem to vanish after spritzing with water.
If a stain develops, begin with a Q-tip dipped in water, or use plain white vinegar mixed with water, as both methods can effectively remove the ink. The ink’s pH ranges from 10-11 when in solution but can drop significantly upon exposure to air, leading to an acid-base reaction that facilitates its disappearance. Steaming is often effective, but freezing temperatures can cause the marks to reappear. If stains persist, attempting to apply 91 rubbing alcohol, or using carbonated water can help; even blowing on the area may hasten the fading process.
While invisible ink generally does not stain clothing and is safe for use, take precautions when using it in areas where delicate fabrics may react negatively. Given its water-based nature, this disappearing ink serves as an effective and non-permanent writing solution, rendering text invisible after a short duration. Always wash fabric as usual after treatment for any remaining residues.
📹 Can pen ink give you skin cancer?
Can pen ink give you skin cancer? Apr 10, 2019 Does writing on skin with an ink pen cause skin cancer? … However, while it will …
As a follow up a few people asked about fading due to light and whether it is a part of the standard. There is a test that addresses light resistance which I would have liked to test, as it is very relevant to most fountain pen users. Unfortunately due to limitations I was not able to do this test. Firstly the procedure is outlines in ISO standard 14145-1 which by itself costs $90 AUD, and although I was able to get a copy of it, the test requires a xenotest or equivalent, a procedure that by itself would cost many hundreds of dollars. If you are looking at the most comparable test to sunlight that I performed in the article, I would say that the bleach test would be the most comparable. Sunlight acts as a bleach and produces similar outcomes, just much slower, and though the use of different mechanisms. Cheers everyone.
This is such an interesting article! I appreciate the work and thought put into this. My two concerns would be water and sunlight. I have full up afternoon sun on my balcony and when I spill ink on the floor, if I can’t get it out, I don’t worry because the sun will bleach it out–on about ALL inks except Platinum Sepia–I think there is kryptonite in that ink or something…
Thank your for an interesting article. I had assumed that all inks that didn’t claim to be “washable” were permanent – at least to plain water. I use Parker Quink and discovered by mishap this past week that a single drop of water can obliterate a word or two and smudge the words around them. I wrote to Parker to ask about this and they don’t claim that any of their inks stand up to water – so I’m older and wiser now.
As far as I can tell, while the Noodler’s Black was undoubtedly invincible, Montblanc Permanent Black did prove that Nathan Tardiff’s influence has finally begun to show on corporate inkmakers – I might be mistaken, but I did not notice any tonic shift in its colour; the ink that ran across the strip was apparently the excess ink that does not penetrate the cellulose as readily as Noodler’s Black does, however long you do allow it to bond in peace. An addendum to a printed note I had pinned up on a largely sunlit wall (facing a wide sun facing window) of a room in my erstwhile house has in all these four years not shown any noticeable shift or grey shading. On non-absorbent Triomphe notepads from the days I had switched to MBPB from Perle Noire four years ago, the writing does not appear to have as of yet shown any sign of exhibiting any grey shading on lighter strokes or shifting to a lighter hue whatsoever, while the Perle Noire has begun to show (tweeny) marks of ageing. So those who go by the results of the bleach test here as a specimen of its UV resistance, rest assured that both the Noodler’s one and the Montblanc one are equally durable. It is essential to bear in mind because in not every country do we find Noodler’s more readily or more inexpensively than we find Montblanc’s regular duo of permanent inks.
Whether or not they conform to ISO standards, all inks should include descriptive ratings for characteristics like Light-fastness (1-3), Water-resistance (1-3), FP safe, Opacity?, Sheen, Shading, etc. Most paints do this. I use Rapidograph ink in my brush pens, and Parker Quink mostly for fountain pens (most available in my area). It washes a bit, but is otherwise permanent. I don’t really trust Noodler, but I’ll take your word for it. I suppose corrosiveness and ‘what happens if the ink dries out in a pen’ are other questions.
Since I didn’t see anyone mention it, I also have the 14145-2 standard and if you look at the definition of what it takes to pass the certification requirements, then both the Noodler’s and the Montlbanc would have passed if the tests that you conducted were up to spec (I think that the procedures you demonstrated here weren’t accurate to the spec, but I understand you were obfuscating things). You mention the MB as failing certification, but I don’t think that is true, and based on your article evidence, I would have said that the MB passed these tests according to the standard.
Very nice presentation. Wait… ISO actually CHARGES to even tell you what its standard entails??? HAHAHA… the actual term I think for inks, papers, adhesives etc. is “archival” which is a very big concern in the art world. ISO however has no relationship to archival quality anything, to my knowledge. There seems actually no set standard in such things. Certainly, any organization which charges to even list their standards is not an organization who really cares that the standard is relevant or useful as a “standard”
Good info, thanks. Personally my only concern is fading, i.e. when you put a drawing on the wall, and maybe sunlight hits it. Is that part of the ISO standard? BTAIM, any info you could share on NON-fading or slow to fade inks is greatly appreciated (barring contrary info, I now assume all inks fade). I’ve got a test going on my sunny window sill, and was astonished when Baystate Blue started fading the first amongst a dozen colors. What a shame.
Interesting test. I think the permanence of ink would matter only for writing documents and not for ordinary writing. ( And ink cannot be considered apart from the quality of the paper.) We are not writing documents all the time. Apart from water, direct exposure to sunlight certainly affects. The notes I took in college here In India are still in tact- the writing has not faded. And I used a very ordinary brand of ink- named “Bril” which still exists! This is available at 35 cents per 60 ml in a glass bottle. I have no use for MB or Noodlers or others which sell at fancy prices in India. There are important considerations other than permanence. I think the whole business of permanence of ink smacks of a scam.