Finding Affordable and Water-Resistant Fountain Pen Ink
When it comes to writing with a fountain pen, the right ink is paramount. But what if you need a pen that can withstand water exposure? Not all fountain pen inks are created equal, and some are more water-resistant than others. In this article, we will discuss the qualities of water-resistant and affordable fountain pen inks, as well as some specific brands and types to consider.
Understanding Water Resistance in Fountain Pen Ink
The majority of fountain pen inks are dye-based and soluble in water. This means that if water splashes onto your page, the ink will likely run and smudge, making the writing illegible. However, there are some high-quality inks that are designed to be water-resistant or even fully waterproof. These include iron gall inks, carbon pigment-based inks, and specialized "bulletproof" inks that use dyes that bond to the paper.
Brands and Types for Water-Resistant Fountain Pen Ink
If you are looking for specific brands and types of water-resistant fountain pen ink, there are a few specialty stores that offer comprehensive guides and sample comparisons. For example, JetPens and Wonder Pens have dedicated pages explaining the properties of various water-resistant inks. These resources provide detailed information and visual samples to help you make an informed decision.
Testing and Reviews
To give you an idea of how water-resistant inks perform, I tested a waterproof ink from Noodler's. The ink from another fountain pen ran and smeared, but the Noodler's ink performed as well as ballpoint ink and did not run at all. Noodler's has several inks that are rated as water-resistant or partially water-resistant, with enough remaining ink to ensure legibility even if some runs.
Top Recommendations
There are many excellent ink reviews available online, including comparisons that include water resistance. If color is a concern, Bernanke Black from Noodler's is a very affordable option at $13 for a 3 oz. bottle, and it is moderately water-resistant. Another great choice is their Baystate blue, which is highly regarded for its quality.
By considering these recommendations and investigating the resources provided, you can find the right water-resistant and affordable fountain pen ink for your needs.