This is the last batch of De Atramentis samples that I have to test and as has been revealed throughout the process, many of these inks have been rebadged for the gift lines and some have been renamed, SO, there have been issues with duplication and even with this last batch Oriental Red and Red Brown together with Fog Grey and Blue Grey may be subject to this issue.

The issue all started out as frustration on my part. I’ve given myself a big project and the only way I can afford to test hundreds of fountain pen inks is via sample vials. So the info on the label is basic! My swatches do take time to create as I need to observe the ink and colour breakdowns within it to ascertain whether or not I’ll want to use that particular ink in future artworks. So when I end up with 3 vials with different names but the same end result, it’s irritating in terms of time loss and, to a degree, money. Rant over.

The De Atramentis range is substantial and with so many colours there are bound to be subtle shade differences between ink colours. It has been commented that many of the inks appear very dark when used through fine point nibs and when viewed when washed with water, the tone and intensity of the colours is a pleasant surprise. These are wet inks – reacting readily with water and blending easily with each other.

Maron, Khaki and Gold all reveal subtle hidden colours. The Gold in particular will warrant further usage. Coral Red, Carmine Red and Antique Pink are stunning bright colours but don’t appear to react with bleach as well as others suggesting some sort of agent resist within the content. Ultramarine also reacts differently. Black Blue, Pigeon Blue, Steel Blue and Adular Blue all reveal pretty bright hues at their edges but for me, Magenta Violet takes the show with a neon pink in the heavier areas when subjected to bleach.

De Atramentis are quality inks. Ebony and Yellow Orange caught my attention as special when I tested a batch some time ago. All of the colours are vivid and easy to handle. What’s not to like?

Inks sourced from stationeryshop.scotland@gmail.com and www.gouletpens.com

All tests on Bockingford 200lb watercolour paper using a self customised Frankenflex pen Jinhao 159 with titanium zebra G flex nib.

Just for the record – I do this for myself, I receive no remuneration what-so-ever and I tell it exactly how I see it.