Matching ink to pen

A few weeks ago a periwinkle Lamy Al-star arrived to join my charcoal Safari as all-purpose workhorses for writing as well as drawing. Usually one or another ink will be the logical choice and the new pen will get a test in short order. The Safari took up with MB Violet like they were made for each other. Even my second choice, Platinum Black, is excellent and perfect for some line drawing.

The Al-star was an exception. After a cursory inspection back into the box it went as no ink seemed to suit it…until today. That sample of Diamine Teal needed a pen so I put the two together. As is often the case, inspiration created a lovely match. In a broader nib with greater flow, the ink might not be so perfect. Teal in the Al-star is smooth and even shows some shading here and there, not always evident with very fine nibs.

The more I play with ink and pens, the more it is clear that matchmaking is at least half inspiration. Sure there are ink characteristics that obviously suit a given pen but that there’s more to it. Maybe it’s just another side of being creative with ink or maybe it’s dumb luck. Either way it sure is fun to see a pen and ink put together that will make a long term match. Might be time to put together a list of ideal mates so I don’t forget some of the best ones.