As a calligrapher, the ink I use is more than just a medium—it’s the foundation of my work. Each brushstroke, each flourish, is influenced by the quality and characteristics of the ink. For years, I’ve relied on store-bought inks, but something always felt a little… off. They were often too thick, too thin, or lacked the depth I wanted. I was searching for something more personal, more organic—something that felt connected to the tradition and history of calligraphy. That’s when I found Natural Ink Making.
I’ve always believed that art should come from a place of authenticity, and I had a feeling that making my own ink would be the key to unlocking a whole new level of creativity in my calligraphy. Here’s my story of how natural ink transformed my work, and why it might be the missing ingredient in your calligraphy practice too.
The Quest for the Perfect Ink
Like many calligraphers, I’ve spent years experimenting with different inks. Some were too runny and bled on the paper; others were too viscous and didn’t flow properly. There was always something that didn’t quite match the vision I had in my head.
When I first heard about Natural Ink Making, I was intrigued but also a bit skeptical. Could ink made from plants really give me the rich, deep colors I wanted? Could it offer the smooth flow and control that I needed for detailed calligraphy? I had to know.
So, I decided to take the plunge and sign up for the Natural Ink Making course. What I didn’t expect was how much this course would not only change my ink collection but also transform the way I approach my calligraphy practice.
The Process: Crafting Ink from Nature
The course began with a deep dive into the history of ink-making, which was fascinating. I learned about the ancient traditions of ink-making and the different materials that were used by calligraphers of the past. This knowledge gave me a new appreciation for the craft I was about to undertake.
We started by gathering plants, flowers, and herbs—each one chosen for its natural pigment and color properties. From there, we learned how to extract the pigments from these plants using simple, time-tested techniques. The process was hands-on, meditative, and surprisingly simple. But what struck me most was how deeply connected to nature the entire experience felt. I was literally taking plants from the earth and turning them into ink for my art. There was something so satisfying about the simplicity and sustainability of it all.
We experimented with different types of plants to create a range of colors, and the results were stunning. I created rich, earthy browns from oak galls, delicate pinks from hibiscus flowers, and deep greens from spinach. Each color was unique, full of texture and depth—qualities that store-bought inks just couldn’t replicate.
The Ink: Rich, Smooth, and Full of Character
The moment I first used one of the inks I had made, I knew this was exactly what I had been searching for. The ink flowed so smoothly on the paper, with a consistency that felt just right—neither too runny nor too thick. But what impressed me even more was the depth of the color. Unlike synthetic inks that often feel flat, the natural inks had an organic quality, with subtle variations in tone that gave my calligraphy a richness and life I hadn’t experienced before.
The ink responded to my nib in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I felt more control, more freedom to experiment with different brushstrokes and variations in pressure. The colors I made had a unique vibrancy, yet were soft enough to create the delicate nuances that calligraphy demands.
For example, the brown ink I made from oak galls became my go-to for creating deep, dramatic letters, while the soft lavender I created from lavender flowers became perfect for more elegant, delicate script. The inks gave my work a sense of individuality and authenticity that I’d never experienced before.
A Personal Connection to My Work
Perhaps the most surprising thing about making my own ink was how deeply it connected me to my art. Every time I used the ink, I thought about the plant it came from, how I harvested it, and how I had carefully mixed it into something beautiful. It felt like I wasn’t just creating art; I was participating in a time-honored tradition, working with the earth to bring beauty into the world.
Using natural ink also made me feel more connected to my own creative process. It was a reminder that art, like life, is not just about the result—it’s about the journey. The act of creating my ink became a ritual that grounded me in my practice and made me more mindful of the materials I used.
The Impact on My Calligraphy
Since starting to use natural ink, my calligraphy has undergone a transformation. The inks not only give my letters a richer texture and more depth, but they also evoke a sense of authenticity that I hadn’t realized was missing before. The process of making the ink has brought new energy into my practice. I feel like I’m creating something with a story—something that is entirely my own.
Additionally, I’ve noticed that my work feels more connected to the natural world. I’ve always loved working with organic materials, and making my own ink has allowed me to do just that. It feels empowering to know that I’m using materials that are sustainable, eco-friendly, and connected to nature. It’s a practice that feels as good as it looks.
Why Natural Ink is a Calligrapher’s Dream
If you’re a calligrapher, I can’t recommend natural ink-making enough. The combination of rich, unique colors, smooth flow, and the deep connection to the materials you’re using makes for a truly satisfying creative experience. The process of crafting your own ink not only enhances your artwork but also makes you more conscious of your creative journey—and of the earth’s role in it.
The inks I make are now an integral part of my work. They’ve added a layer of meaning to my calligraphy that I never imagined possible. Natural ink has become my go-to medium, and I feel more connected to my craft than ever before.
For anyone looking to bring new life and authenticity to their calligraphy, Natural Ink Making is the way to go. It’s more than just making ink; it’s about making art with purpose, creativity, and a deep connection to nature.