Creating Safe Homemade Fountain Pen Ink: Tips to Prevent Rust Forming on the Nib

For fountain pen enthusiasts, maintaining the nib is crucial to ensure your writing instrument performs flawlessly. One common issue that can plague fountain pens is the formation of rust, which can quickly ruin your writing experience. However, by following the proper recipe and precautions, you can create homemade fountain pen ink that is both safe and effective while minimizing the risk of rust.

Basic Recipe for Homemade Fountain Pen Ink

Creating your own fountain pen ink not only allows for customization in color and consistency but also ensures that your ink is safe for your nib and free from rust-causing elements. Here is a simple recipe that you can follow:

Ingredients

Distilled water Food coloring, watercolor paint, or specific ink dyes (ensure they are water-soluble and non-toxic) Glycerin (optional, to improve flow and consistency) Vinegar (about 1 teaspoon per cup of ink, as a mild preservative) Cornstarch or Gum Arabic (optional, to slightly thicken the ink)

Instructions

Start with about 1 cup of distilled water. Gradually add your dye or pigment until you reach your desired color intensity. Mix well. If using, add about 1-2 teaspoons of glycerin to the mixture. This helps the ink flow better and prevents it from drying out too quickly. Mix in the vinegar to help prevent mold and bacteria growth. If you want a thicker ink, mix a small amount of cornstarch or gum arabic in a little water first and then add to the mixture. Filter the ink through a coffee filter or fine mesh to remove any undissolved particles. Bottle the ink in a clean airtight container.

Tips to Prevent Rust

While carefully selecting your ingredients is important, there are additional steps you can take to ensure your homemade ink does not cause your fountain pen's nib to rust:

Use Non-Corrosive Ingredients

Ensure all ingredients are free from corrosive substances such as salt. Acidic components like vinegar should be used in moderation to avoid any negative effects.

Regular Cleaning

Regularly clean your fountain pen to remove any build-up that could lead to rust. This helps maintain the pen's performance and longevity.

Choose Stainless Steel Nibs

Stainless steel nibs are more resistant to rust than other metals. If possible, opt for pens with stainless steel nibs to minimize the risk of rust formation.

Proper Storage

Store your ink and pen in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps prevent degradation and extends the life of both your ink and pen.

Additional Considerations

Before diving into your ink-making process, it's important to test the ink on a small scale to ensure it performs well and does not clog your pen. You may need to adjust the water or glycerin ratio to achieve the desired consistency.

By following these steps and tips, you can create homemade fountain pen ink that is both safe and effective, ensuring a smoother writing experience and minimizing the risk of damaging your nib.

Note: Always handle ink and materials with care to avoid contamination and ensure the quality of your homemade fountain pen ink.