Must-Try Special Blue Inks!
If you’re a fountain pen enthusiast like me, you probably already know that blue inks are a staple in any collection. After all, they’re versatile, timeless, and come in an incredible variety of shades and finishes. In a previous blog, I covered some of the must-try blue inks, including classic and water-resistant options. For this list, I’m diving into the wilder side of blue inks—those with unique qualities, bold colors, and daring finishes that stand out from the crowd. Some are lesser-known, while others have earned legendary status for their one-of-a-kind characteristics.
Organics Studio Nitrogen
Organics Studio Nitrogen is a superstar among blue inks, and for good reason. It’s a stunning deep blue with a jaw-dropping red sheen. But be warned: Nitrogen is as high-maintenance as it is beautiful. Dry times can feel eternal, especially on ink-resistant paper, and smudging is practically inevitable if you’re not careful. It also clings to your pen’s feed and nib, making cleanup a bit of a challenge. Despite the fuss, its vibrant sheen and bold personality make it a must-try for adventurous ink lovers.
Diamine Blue Velvet
For a more accessible alternative to Nitrogen, look no further than Diamine Blue Velvet. This ink offers a deep blue color with a striking red sheen but without the longer dry times or sometimes tricky cleanup. It’s smooth to write with, easy to clean, and comes in a sleek bottle that’s sure to look great on your desk. If you’re intrigued by intense blues but want a more user-friendly experience, Blue Velvet is a fantastic choice.
Colorverse Witch by Starlight
Colorverse Witch by Starlight is a Goulet Pens exclusive with a dark, almost midnight blue shade and a touch of purple, packed with dazzling rose gold shimmer. Lay it down heavily, and the shimmer transforms your writing into a luminous work of art. If you’re a fan of shimmering inks and rich, dark tones, Witch by Starlight is one you’ll want to try.
Diamine Jack Frost
If you love vibrant blues with red sheens, Diamine Jack Frost is a hidden gem you’ll adore. This ink comes from Diamine’s Inkvent calendar and features not just a red sheen but also a subtle blue shimmer. The shimmer is understated but adds a dynamic layer to the already vivid color. It also boasts decent dry times, making it a practical yet exciting choice for everyday writing.
Ferris Wheel Press Glistening Glass
From the FerriTales collection by Ferris Wheel Press, Glistening Glass is a slate blue-gray with gold shimmer. It’s more subdued than other inks on this list, but that restraint allows the shimmer to truly shine. While this collection is limited, it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for something unique and elegant. Plus, Ferris Wheel Press is constantly expanding its line, so there’s always something new to discover.
Noodler’s Baystate Blue
Noodler’s Baystate Blue is an electric blue ink that has been a fan favorite for years, and it’s easy to see why. Its brightness is unmatched, and it practically glows on the page. However, Baystate Blue is known for being a bit tricky to clean, as it doesn’t respond well to traditional cleaning methods. The key? A 10:1 diluted bleach solution will clean it right up. Many users even dedicate a specific pen to this ink to avoid the hassle. Despite its quirks, Baystate Blue remains a must-try for its sheer vibrancy.
Sailor Manyo Haha
Sailor’s Manyo line is filled with fascinating multi-tonal inks, and Haha is no exception. This lighter sky blue shifts to shades of pink, teal, and even purple, depending on the paper and the amount of ink used. It’s not your typical everyday ink, but if you enjoy experimenting with colors and seeing how they transform, Haha is a playful and rewarding choice.
Sailor Dipton Ice Dance
Now, Sailor markets Ice Dance as a dip pen ink, but it’s perfectly safe for fountain pens too! This vibrant blue ink features both silver shimmer and iridescent shimmer, creating a color-shifting effect that’s nothing short of mesmerizing. It’s a standout option for anyone who appreciates all the glitz and glam in their ink.
Whether you’re drawn to shimmering finishes, bold sheens, or multi-tonal effects, there’s a blue ink here for every adventurous spirit. If these adventurous blue inks have sparked your curiosity, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a sample package featuring all the inks on this list, so you can try every one for yourself without committing to a full bottle. Write on!
