Inks

Master the smooth lines, flourishes and fluid nature of ink. People have spent thousands of years refining their skills, whether it be by brush, pen or quill to express their ideas and creativity with ink. Explore new drawing styles, or elevate your handwriting when practising your calligraphy.

Explore our wide range of art and craft supplies from the best brands, trusted and respected around the world, including Art Spectrum, Atelier, Winsor & Newton and more.

Working with different mediums

Acrylic Ink

Versatile, durable and easy to use, acrylic ink is water-based and mixed with acrylic resin for a highly pigmented liquid that comes in a range of vibrant colours. The best part is you can use them on pretty much anything, including paper, fabric, wooden boards and glass. Acrylic varieties are waterproof and fade-resistant, perfect for artists who want their creations to last.

Calligraphy Ink

History is replete with beautiful manuscripts, and behind every flourish and swirl is the calligraphy ink that stands the test of time. Offering you a smooth, consistent flow, best suited for the rhythmic flick of the wrist you need to master calligraphy pens and markers. It tends to be thinner and less viscous than acrylic alternatives, allowing your writing to flow more freely.

Drawing Ink

Precision is the defining feature of drawing ink, giving you greater control for intricate illustrations and detailed works; especially when using dip pens, technical pens, and fountain pens. But, they’re also an incredibly versatile medium you can use for gentle washes when diluted with water. You can spread it thinly over a surface, creating a translucent, watercolour-like effect. This is great for backgrounds, shading, or any part of your artwork where a softer, more diffused appearance is desired. Drawing ink is usually made from dyes or finely ground pigments, giving them their distinct colour intensity.

Indian Ink

With a legacy that dates back centuries, Indian ink stands as testament to timelessness in the world of art. The deep, carbon-black shade and its resilience against fading makes it the go-to when you’re in need of a medium that will last. The robust, waterproof nature of this medium makes it an enduring favourite and definitely worth exploring whether you’re new to the art or taking on new challenges.

Alcohol Ink

Alcohol ink is a fast-drying and highly pigmented solution that dissolves in alcohol, not water. Perfect for when you need to work with non-porous surfaces like glass, plastic, metal, and ceramic. Because they're solvent-based, they tend to spread and diffuse rapidly when applied, allowing you to blend them with other colours on the surface.Their unique properties let you create dreamy, abstract, and ethereal art pieces. And more recently people have found you can use them when crafting and scrapbooking to add a splash of colour.

Tips for artists:

Experiment with different papers: Similar to if you’re using gouache paints, your choice of paper can transform your artwork.

Master the drip: These mediums can be drippy. Getting yourself used to their flow will prevent blotches.

Look to layer: Especially when you’re using acrylics, layering can bring depth and dimension to your work.

Get yourself a set: Whether you’re new to the artform or expanding your artistry, ink sets give you a good selection to start your next project.

Cleaning spills: You can dab the spill with a mix of dish soap and warm water, or use rubbing alcohol for stubborn stains.

Storage and sorting: Always store your supplies in a cool, dry place and keep caps tightly sealed.

Let Loose: Remember it’s your art and your expression. Just enjoy the process!

Start creating with these supplies:

Markers and Brushes: Whichever you prefer to express your artistic vision.

Watercolour or oil pads: Suited to the medium you prefer using.

Blending solution: Helps to enhance the flow of your medium.

Sealants: Protect and preserve your artworks.

Art Spectrum Pipettes