The Best Tools & Supplies I Actually Use for Shading & Sheening Inks
As a passionate calligrapher and fountain pen enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by the interplay of shading and sheening inks. There’s something magical about the way these inks dance across the page, revealing layers of color that can transform a simple writing task into an artistic endeavor. Today, I want to share the tools and supplies that have truly made a difference in my exploration of these delightful inks. ### Understanding Shading and Sheening Inks Before diving into my favorite supplies, let's clarify what we mean by shading and sheening. Shading inks are those that change color intensity depending on the amount of ink applied, while sheening inks exhibit a secondary color that shimmers on the page. Both can add incredible depth and character to your writing or artwork. ### The Essential Tools I Rely On 1. **Fountain Pens**: The foundation of my calligraphy practice. - **TWSBI Eco**: Priced around $30, this pen is reliable and offers a smooth writing experience. I love using it with a medium nib for shading inks. - **Pilot Metropolitan**: At about $15, this is an affordable option that performs surprisingly well. The fine nib is great for capturing subtle shading. - **Lamy Safari**: Costing around $30, it’s a staple in my collection. I prefer it with a broad nib for those rich sheening inks. 2. **Paper**: The right paper can make or break your experience with shading and sheening inks. - **Tomoe River Paper**: Known for its fountain pen friendliness, this paper allows inks to shine. A pack of 100 sheets can cost about $30. It's thin but holds up beautifully to different ink types. - **Rhodia Dot Pad**: Approximately $10 for a pad of 80 sheets, this paper provides great feedback and showcases shading beautifully. - **Clairefontaine**: This cream-colored paper, priced around $15 for a pad, offers an excellent surface for both shading and sheening inks. 3. **Inks**: I’ve tried dozens of inks, but these are my favorites for shading and sheening: - **Diamine Shimmering Inks**: My go-to for sheening, I love the “Shimmering Seas” for its beautiful teal sheen. Priced around $20 for a 50ml bottle, it’s worth every penny. - **Noodler’s Apache Sunset**: A $12 ink that offers vibrant shading and is a staple in my collection. - **Robert Oster Signature Inks**: These inks are fantastic for shading. The “Fire Engine Red” is a personal favorite, costing about $18 for a 50ml bottle. 4. **Nib Tuning Tools**: Maintaining the nib of my fountain pens is essential for achieving optimal performance with shading and sheening inks. - **Myo Inks Nib Tuner**: Priced at $25, this tool helps me fine-tune my nibs for a smoother writing experience. - **Micromesh Pads**: A set can be purchased for around $10. I use these for smoothing out rough nibs, ensuring an even flow of ink. 5. **Cleaning Supplies**: Keeping my pens clean is crucial when switching between inks. - **Pen flush**: I make my own using distilled water and a few drops of dish soap. It’s effective and inexpensive. - **Syringes**: I use a 10ml syringe (about $3) for filling and cleaning my pens, allowing for precision without mess. ### My Personal Tips for Using Shading and Sheening Inks One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my adventures with these inks is that experimentation is key. The same ink can behave quite differently depending on the paper and pen used. My advice? Keep a dedicated journal where you can record your experiences with different combinations.💡 Eleanor Wright's Rule of Thumb: Always test your inks on the paper you plan to use. A small swatch can save you plenty of frustration later on!
### A Comparison Table of My Favorite Inks
| Ink Name | Type | Price ($ USD) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamine Shimmering Seas | Sheening | 20 | Teal with glittery sheen |
| Noodler’s Apache Sunset | Shading | 12 | Vibrant orange with strong shading |
| Robert Oster Fire Engine Red | Shading | 18 | Rich red with excellent shading |
What is the best paper for shading and sheening inks?
Tomoe River paper is my top choice, thanks to its ability to showcase the unique qualities of these inks. Rhodia and Clairefontaine also perform well.
How do I clean my fountain pen after using sheening inks?
I recommend using a pen flush solution and a syringe to clean your pen thoroughly. It's important to remove all remnants of the ink to prevent clogging.
Can I use shading and sheening inks in any fountain pen?
While most fountain pens can accommodate these inks, I advise using pens with a broader nib as they tend to perform better with shading and sheening inks.