5 BEST Inks for Fountain Pens [QUALITY + VERSATILITY] My Top Picks

Written by: Dalia Abdalla

|

|

Time to read 8 min

My List of the Best Inks for Fountain Pens


If you're like me, you love using fountain pens because they write so smoothly. But here's something important to know: the kind of ink you put in your pen can change how it feels to write. In this blog post, I'll help you discover the best inks for fountain pens.



1. Waterman Fountain Pen Ink


I use this product for my fountain pens because it helps keep them in tip-top shape. Fountain pens are special, and they need a little extra care. This product cleans and protects the delicate parts inside the pen, like the nib and ink flow. It also prevents clogs and ensures smooth writing. Plus, it makes my pens last longer, so I can enjoy using them for a long time. It's like giving my fountain pens a spa day, and that's why I use this product a lot to keep my writing smooth and enjoyable.


  • Package Information: Bottle
  • Item Volume: 50 Milliliters
  • Ink Type: Liquid ink
  • Bottle Material: 50ml glass bottle with a screw-top closure for convenience and ease of use


  1. Dries Quickly: This ink dries fast, so your writing won't smudge, whether you're left or right-handed. It keeps your writing neat and clean.

  2. Works with Many Pens: This ink is versatile and can be used with different types of paper and fountain pens. Whether you have lots of pens or just one, it works well and is reliable.

  3. Resists Water: It's not completely waterproof, but it can handle a little water. Your important papers and notes won't get ruined if they get a little wet.

  4. Heritage: Waterman is a company with a long history of making great pens. This ink is from a trusted brand with a reputation for quality.

  5. Lots of Ink: You get a big 50ml bottle of ink, so it'll last a long time. It's a good deal for the price.


But wait, there's so many other colors...

2. Asvine Hongdian Fountain Pen


I really like using the Asvine Hongdian Fountain Pen Bottled Ink in black, and I want to tell you why it's my favorite for fountain pens. It makes my writing look classy and special. The ink comes in a pretty glass bottle that's easy to keep and take with me. What's really cool is that it's non-carbon ink, so it keeps my pen clean and doesn't clog it. And the black color looks awesome on paper and makes my writing look professional.


  • Item Volume: 60 Milliliters
  • Compatibility: Designed for use with all brand fountain pens
  • Ink Characteristics: High-quality ink for smooth flow, quick-drying, non-toxic, and pH neutral
  • Bottle Design: Luxury glass bottle with a wide base and tight sealing screw-top lid for easy storage and carrying

  1. Safe and Gentle: This ink is safe to use and won't harm your fountain pen. It's a good choice for both new and experienced pen users.
  2. No Clogs: Unlike some inks that can clog your pen and need frequent cleaning, this ink doesn't have carbon, so it flows smoothly and doesn't cause problems.
  3. Many Uses: You can use this ink for work papers, art projects, or your personal journal. It works well for lots of things.
  4. Lots of Colors: Besides black, you can find this ink in many other colors, so you can make your writing or drawings more personal.

Make your notes stylish!

3. Pelikan Edelstein Bottled Ink


The ink comes in a pretty bottle and flows smoothly onto the paper when I write. It doesn't make a mess or need a lot of cleaning, which is great. Plus, it's made in Germany, so I know it's high quality. The color of the ink is really nice too, and it makes my writing look great.


  • Package Information: Bottle
  • Item Volume: 50 Milliliters
  • Made in Germany
  1. Easy to Use: This ink is known for being good quality and not causing problems with your pen. That means you don't have to clean and fix your pen as often, which is nice because it gives you more time to write.
  2. Nice Bottle: The ink bottle is made to be comfortable to hold when you're filling your pen. It looks stylish and can be a cool decoration on your desk.
  3. Made in Germany: The ink is proudly made in Germany, a country known for making things very well. That's why it works so nicely.
  4. Good Deal: You get a lot of ink in the bottle, 50ml to be exact, and it's really good ink, so you get a lot for your money, and it will last a long time.

Don't see any colors you like? Click below to explore more colors!

4. Wordsworth and Black Fountain Pen Ink


This ink comes in a cool bottle that's easy to use and store. When I write with it, the ink flows smoothly, and the colors are really nice. It dries quickly, so I don't have to worry about smudges or messy pages. Plus, it's made with natural ingredients, which is important to me. I know that it's high-quality and won't cause any problems with my pens. 


  • Package Information: Bottle
  • Item Volume: 50 Milliliters
  • Material Type: Glass
  • Closure Type: Screw Top

  1. Dries Quickly: This ink dries really fast, in just a few seconds. That means your writing won't smudge, and it will look neat and clean.
  2. Writes Smoothly: This ink flows really nicely on paper. It's easy to write with, so you'll enjoy using it.
  3. Good Quality: The ink is made with natural dyes and is safe to use. It's high-quality ink, which means it's really good.
  4. No Clogs: Unlike some inks that can clog your pen, this one won't. It flows smoothly without any problems, so your writing goes smoothly too.

5. Fountain Pen Ink Cartridges - The Following Are My Absolute Favorites!


Why do I love fountain pen ink cartridges so much? Well, it's all about the ease and convenience they bring to my writing. You see, these little inks are like a perfect match for my fountain pens. They're simple to use, just snap them in, and you're good to go. No messy spills or fussing around with filling mechanisms. Plus, they come in a wide variety of colors, letting me switch between shades easily.


  1. Convenience: Ink cartridges are incredibly easy to use. You simply insert them into your fountain pen, and you're ready to write. This makes them ideal for beginners and those who want a hassle-free writing experience.

  2. Mess-Free: Unlike bottled ink, ink cartridges minimize the risk of spills and mess. You won't have to worry about accidentally tipping over an ink bottle and staining your desk or clothes.

  3. Hygienic: Ink cartridges are sealed, which helps maintain the ink's integrity and prevents contamination. This ensures a consistent and reliable ink flow.

  4. Cost-Effective: While individual cartridges may seem more expensive than buying a bottle of ink initially, they can be more cost-effective in the long run because they prevent ink wastage and reduce the need to buy additional cleaning supplies.


"How do I use a dip pen?"

Which brand ink is best for fountain pen?

The "best" brand of ink for fountain pens can vary depending on personal preference. Some popular and reputable ink brands among fountain pen enthusiasts include Pilot Iroshizuku, Sailor, J. Herbin, Montblanc, and Waterman. It's essential to consider factors like ink properties (such as shading, sheen, and flow) and color choices when determining the best brand for your specific needs.

What ink to avoid in a fountain pen?

It's generally advisable to avoid using India ink, calligraphy ink, or any ink not specifically designed for fountain pens. These inks can be thicker, contain particles that may clog the pen, and could damage the pen's feed or nib over time.

Does it matter what ink I use for my fountain pen?

Yes, the type of ink you use can significantly impact your fountain pen's performance and writing experience. It's important to use fountain pen ink, as it is formulated to flow smoothly, prevent clogging, and maintain the pen's longevity. Choosing high-quality ink that meets your preferences for color and other properties can enhance your writing experience.

What is the best color ink for a fountain pen?

The "best" color ink for a fountain pen is subjective and depends on your personal preferences and intended use. Common choices include classic blue and black for professional settings, while other vibrant colors like turquoise, purple, or green can add a touch of personality to your writing.

What is a luxury fountain pen?

A luxury fountain pen is a high-end writing instrument typically crafted from premium materials such as precious metals, exotic woods, or fine resins. These pens often feature exquisite design details, superior craftsmanship, and may be accompanied by limited edition releases. Brands like Montblanc, Parker, and Pelikan are known for producing luxury fountain pens.

What is the best dark red ink for fountain pens?

Dark red ink preferences can vary, but some popular dark red fountain pen inks include Diamine Oxblood, Montblanc Corn Poppy Red, and Pilot Iroshizuku Momiji. The "best" one depends on your specific shade and performance preferences.

Is it OK to leave ink in a fountain pen?

It's generally safe to leave ink in a fountain pen for a short period, such as a week or two. However, for longer-term storage, it's recommended to clean and empty the pen to prevent ink from drying and potentially clogging the pen's feed.

What is the difference between Waterman and Parker ink?

Waterman and Parker are both reputable fountain pen brands, and they each produce their own line of fountain pen inks. The main differences between the two brands' inks may include color options, ink properties (e.g., shading, sheen), and bottle designs. Personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between these brands, as both offer high-quality fountain pen inks.

Modern Pink Paper Author - Dalia Abdalla

Dalia Abdalla

Owner & Head Designer, Modern Pink Paper

Dalia is the creative force behind Modern Pink Paper. With a keen eye for detail and a love for all things stationery, she embarked on this journey to provide personalized stationery solutions. When she's not crafting beautiful paper creations, Dalia is sharing her insights and inspirations on this blog, ensuring that her readers always have a touch of beauty and creativity in their lives.