My Golden Rules for Paper Tests & Tomoe River That Never Let Me Down
As a calligrapher and fountain pen conservator, I’ve spent countless hours testing various papers to find the perfect match for my writing and art projects. One paper that consistently stands out is Tomoe River. It’s beloved among fountain pen enthusiasts for its smooth texture and ability to showcase inks beautifully. However, not all papers are created equal, and my journey to discover the best pairs for my pens has led me to some golden rules that I want to share with you. ### Why Paper Matters Before diving into my golden rules, let’s discuss why the right paper is essential. The paper you choose can significantly affect your writing experience, ink performance, and overall aesthetics. It’s not just about preventing bleed-through or feathering; it's about ensuring that the color, sheen, and shimmer of your ink shine as they should. Tomoe River, with its unique characteristics, has become my go-to for everything from journaling to calligraphy. ### My Golden Rules for Paper Testing #### 1. **Evaluate the Texture** In my experience, the texture of the paper plays a crucial role in how my pens glide across the surface. I typically look for a smooth yet slightly textured finish that allows for a controlled writing experience. Tomoe River excels here, providing a silk-like feel that enhances the writing experience. - **Tip**: Write a few lines using different nib sizes (EF, M, B) to see how they respond to the paper’s texture. #### 2. **Check Ink Drying Times** One of the benefits of Tomoe River paper is its ability to hold ink without being overly absorbent, which can lead to quicker drying times. I’ve learned to experiment with different inks on this paper to see how they dry, especially if I’m writing in a journal or planner where I might need to flip pages quickly. | Ink Type | Drying Time on Tomoe River (seconds) | |----------------|--------------------------------------| | Water-based | 5 - 10 | | Pigment-based | 10 - 15 | | Iron Gall | 15 - 20 |💡 Eleanor Wright's Rule of Thumb: Always allow additional drying time for wet inks, especially if you plan to layer or write on the back of the page.
#### 3. **Test for Feathering and Bleed-Through**
Feathering and bleed-through can ruin a beautiful piece of writing. When I test new papers, I always look for these issues by applying various inks and watching how they behave. Tomoe River paper generally performs exceptionally well in this regard, but I've encountered a few inks that don’t play nicely.
- **Feathering Test**: Write a small paragraph and observe if the ink spreads beyond the line.
- **Bleed-Through Test**: Write on one side of the paper, then flip to the other side and check for any ink shadowing or bleeding.
#### 4. **Experiment with Ink Sheen and Shimmer**
One of the most exciting aspects of using Tomoe River paper is how it enhances shimmering inks. When testing, I make sure to use a variety of inks that are known for their sheen. I’ve found that the paper accentuates the sparkling effects beautifully, making it a joy to write and look at.
| Ink Name | Sheen Level | Shimmer Effect |
|--------------------------|-------------|----------------|
| Diamine Golden Honey | High | Moderate |
| Robert Oster Fire & Ice | Moderate | High |
| J. Herbin 1670 Emerald | High | Very High |
#### 5. **Consider Weight and Thickness**
Tomoe River paper comes in different weights, such as 52gsm and 68gsm, which can significantly impact your writing experience. I prefer the 68gsm version for daily journaling, as it feels sturdier while still maintaining that delightful smoothness.
- **Weight Comparison**:
- 52gsm: Feels feather-light but is delicate; best for light inks.
- 68gsm: Offers more durability and is ideal for layered writing.
### FAQ Section
Why do you prefer Tomoe River paper over other brands?
Tomoe River offers a unique combination of smoothness and ink handling that enhances the writing experience. Its ability to showcase inks beautifully is unmatched, making it a favorite among many calligraphers.
Can I use Tomoe River paper for watercolor techniques?
While Tomoe River paper is primarily designed for fountain pens and writing, I've found it can handle light washes. However, for heavy watercolor techniques, I recommend using dedicated watercolor paper.
Is it worth the price?
Absolutely! The quality and performance of Tomoe River paper make it worth the investment, especially if you're serious about your writing or calligraphy.