Ink Supplies
Ink work demands precision and confidence. The right pens and inks let you create crisp lines, smooth gradients, and bold marks without hesitation. Whether you are illustrating, sketching, or practising calligraphy, quality ink supplies respond consistently and produce lasting results.
This section covers the full range of ink media: fineliners for precise line work, brush pens for expressive strokes, and bottled inks for dip pens and refillable markers. We also include recommendations for paper that handles ink well without bleeding or feathering.
Our focus is on archival-quality products that produce permanent, fade-resistant marks. We highlight options across price points, from reliable everyday pens to professional-grade tools. Each recommendation is based on material quality, performance characteristics, and feedback from working artists.
Top Picks for Ink
Uni
Uni Pin Fineliner Set (0.1-0.8mm)
A dependable choice for artists who need consistent, waterproof lines. The archival pigment ink dries quickly and resists smudging, making these fineliners excellent for ink work that will be coloured with markers or watercolour.
- Archival pigment ink that is waterproof when dry
- Consistent line quality from start to finish
- Good selection of nib sizes in one set
- Tips can wear down with heavy use on textured paper
- Limited colour range compared to some competitors
Budget-friendly, typically £8-12 for a set
Check priceSakura
Sakura Pigma Micron Set
The original archival fineliner that set the standard for the industry. Pigma Micron pens deliver precise, permanent lines that remain crisp for decades. A favourite among professional illustrators and comic artists worldwide.
- Industry-standard archival ink
- Extremely fine tips available (005)
- Fade-resistant and waterproof
- Tips are delicate and can bend if pressed too hard
- Ink can dry out if left uncapped
Mid-range, typically £10-15 for a set
Check priceFaber-Castell
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Set
Premium artist pens that combine archival India ink with a range of tip options. The brush pens are particularly popular among urban sketchers for their expressive line variation and waterproof finish.
- India ink is waterproof and archival
- Brush tips hold their shape well
- Wide variety of tip styles available
- Higher price point than basic fineliners
- Brush tips require more skill to control
Mid to premium range, £15-30 for sets
Check priceLeuchtturm1917
Leuchtturm1917 A5 Hardcover Notebook
A versatile hardcover notebook favoured by artists and writers alike. The 80gsm paper handles fountain pens and fineliners well, while the numbered pages and index make it excellent for organised sketchbook practice.
- High-quality 80gsm paper handles most inks well
- Numbered pages and index for organisation
- Lay-flat binding makes drawing comfortable
- Some ghosting with heavy ink application
- Not ideal for wet media like watercolour
Mid-range, typically around £15-20
Check priceBuying Guides
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes ink archival quality?
Archival inks use pigment-based formulations that resist fading from light exposure and remain stable over decades. Look for descriptions like 'pigment ink', 'archival', or 'lightfast'. Dye-based inks, while often more vibrant, tend to fade faster and are less suitable for work intended to last.
Can I use watercolour over fineliner ink?
Yes, provided the ink is waterproof when dry. Most pigment-based fineliners from brands like Uni, Sakura, and Faber-Castell are designed for this purpose. Always test on scrap paper first and allow the ink to dry completely before applying water-based media.
What nib size should I start with?
A 0.3mm or 0.5mm nib offers good versatility for beginners. These sizes work well for both detail work and broader strokes. As you develop your style, you might add finer nibs (0.1mm) for detail and broader nibs (0.8mm) for filling and emphasis.
How do I prevent fineliners from drying out?
Always replace caps immediately after use and store pens horizontally or with tips down. Avoid pressing too hard, which can damage tips and affect ink flow. Quality fineliners typically last several sketchbooks with proper care.