Indian Ink

What Is Indian Ink?

Indian ink has been a go-to medium for artists, calligraphers and illustrators for centuries. Its deep black tones, smooth flow and adaptability make it an artist’s best friend, whether for fine-line drawings, bold calligraphy or expressive ink washes.

At its core, Indian ink is made from carbon black pigment, water and a binder—traditionally shellac. This simple yet powerful formula allows it to be permanent, rich in colour and highly versatile. Brands like Winsor & Newton Liquid Indian Ink and Sennelier Traditional Indian Ink continue this tradition, offering modern artists reliable, high-quality ink.

A Brief History

Despite its name, Indian ink has its roots in ancient China, where it was originally used for writing and art. It spread across Asia and beyond, becoming a staple for calligraphers, illustrators and painters. Today, it remains just as relevant, with artists favouring classic formulations like Winsor & Newton Waterproof Black Drawing Inks for their permanence and bold finish.

Why Artists Love Indian Ink

So, what makes Indian ink a must-have? It’s incredibly versatile—it can be used with dip pens, brushes and even airbrushes. It also dries quickly and can be layered for rich depth and contrast.

How Artists Use Indian Ink

Illustration and Sketching

If you love crisp, bold linework, Indian ink is the perfect tool. It’s a favourite among comic artists, illustrators and ink-based painters because it allows for smooth, controlled strokes with deep, opaque blacks.

For artists who need absolute precision, Winsor & Newton Waterproof Black Drawing Inks deliver sharp, smudge-proof lines—a huge advantage when layering over pencil sketches.

Want softer washes and more fluid strokes? Sennelier Traditional Indian Ink is a great choice for delicate shading and subtle ink effects.

Calligraphy and Lettering

Calligraphers swear by Indian ink for its rich pigmentation and smooth flow. Whether you prefer a dip pen, brush or even a fountain pen, it provides consistent, striking results.

Liquid Indian Ink is especially popular with modern calligraphers thanks to its fluid consistency and striking depth. If you love traditional lettering, Traditional Indian Inks bring a classic elegance to your work.

Mixed Media and Wash Effects

Indian ink isn’t just for fine lines—it works beautifully with watercolours, gouache and even acrylics. Many artists dilute it for soft washes and shading, while others layer it over painted backgrounds for added contrast.

Choosing the Right Indian Ink

Waterproof vs. Non-Waterproof

When picking an Indian ink, one of the biggest decisions is whether to go for waterproof or non-waterproof formulas.

• Waterproof inks: These contain shellac or acrylic binders, making them resistant to smudging and water damage once dry. If you want ink that stays put, go for drawing inks - they're perfect for layering with watercolours or markers.

• Non-waterproof inks: These remain water-soluble, which is great for creating soft washes and subtle gradients. Traditional Indian Inks are ideal for artists who want flexibility in their shading techniques.

Understanding the difference between permanent and water-soluble Indian inks can help artists make informed choices based on their preferred techniques.

The Best Indian Ink Brands

If you’re serious about quality and performance, choosing a trusted brand makes all the difference.

• Winsor & Newton Liquid Indian Ink: Known for its fluid consistency and deep, rich tones, this is a top pick for detailed work.

• Winsor & Newton Waterproof Black Drawing Inks: A go-to choice for artists who need crisp, permanent lines that won’t bleed or fade.

If you experiment with both waterproof and non-waterproof inks, you’ll discover new ways to layer and blend, opening up endless creative possibilities.

Expert Tips for Working with Indian Ink

To make the most of Indian ink, keep these best practices in mind:

• Use the right paper: Indian ink works best on heavyweight, smooth paper that resists bleeding and buckling.

• Experiment with dilution: Adding water lets you create stunning washes and subtle effects.

• Layer carefully: If using waterproof ink, let each layer dry fully before adding more detail.

• Clean your tools quickly: Indian ink dries fast, so rinse your brushes and dip pens immediately to keep them in top shape.

Mastering these small techniques will dramatically improve your ink work, helping you get the most out of every drop.

Bring Your Artwork to Life with Indian Ink

There’s a reason Indian ink has been a staple for artists for centuries—it’s bold, expressive and adaptable to so many techniques. Whether you’re crafting fine calligraphy, bold illustrations or delicate ink washes, choosing the right ink can make all the difference.

Find your perfect Indian ink at ArtStore Online and take your creativity to the next level.