Which Watercolour Inks Work Best on Handmade Paper?

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As an avid fan of handmade paper, I am always on the lookout for inks that work well with this unique medium. In a previous blog post, I shared my love for Rohrer & Klingner inks on handmade paper. Today, I want to introduce you to another great option: TALENS Ecoline Liquid Watercolour inks.

Ecoline inks are known for their bright, vibrant colours and their ability to mix and blend easily. But how do they perform on handmade paper? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at how Ecoline inks interact with handmade paper, and what makes them a great choice for artists and creatives.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out with handmade paper, this guide will help you choose the right inks for your next project. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of Ecoline inks on handmade paper.

Using Ecoline Liquid Watercolour Inks on Handmade Paper

I have been using Ecoline Liquid Watercolour inks for several years now, back when they were only available in square-shaped bottles. Nowadays, they come in round bottles with a dropper, which I find very practical when using a dip nib.

One of the significant differences between Ecoline inks and Rohrer & Klingner inks is that the watercolour ink does not provide opaque coverage. This creates a slight colour gradient in the lettering, which I find particularly beautiful when aiming for a light and airy lettering style.

Of course, it is also possible to use watercolour paints from a palette with a brush and water, but this takes more patience and practice. Using liquid watercolour inks saves you time and effort.

When using Ecoline inks on handmade paper, you can expect bright and vibrant colours, with the added bonus of a softer, more subtle effect due to the paper's texture.

Benefits of Using TALENS Ecoline Liquid Watercolour Inks

1. Ecoline Watercolours come in a wide range of vibrant colours.

2. The ink flows smoothly from the nib and does not smudge or blot, even though it has a more fluid consistency than traditional inks.

3. Ecoline inks allow for fast and slow movements, making it suitable for various types of calligraphy and lettering.

4. The ink does not bleed onto the paper, ensuring neat lines and strokes.

5. The ink creates a slight ombré effect from light to dark within the written text. This adds a natural and light effect, old-world charm, and handmade character to your work.

Choosing the best Ecoline Liquid Watercolour Inks for your project

When my clients request a lighter, airier lettering style, I turn to Ecoline Liquid Watercolour inks. The natural, translucent look of the ink helps create a subtle, delicate effect that's perfect for a more low-key, subdued feel.

However, it's important to keep in mind that some lighter colours may appear too light and difficult to read on handmade paper. Colours like 704, 420, and 738, for instance, may not work well for this medium.

When it comes to selecting the right Ecoline colours for handmade paper, I tend to prefer darker hues like:

1. No. 416, a medium brown

2. No. 440, a dark brown

3. No. 700, a dark gray

4. No. 718, a light gray

These colours provide a contrasting effect and make a bold statement on the textured surface, while still creating that unique, handcrafted look.

When using nibs with a medium point, the colours may appear darker due to the thicker line. This can be advantageous for lighter colours. However, when using darker colours like No. 440, a thinner nib is recommended to achieve a lighter effect. For Ecoline Liquid Watercolour inks, I personally prefer to use a nib with a fine point to ensure precision and control.

Overall, Ecoline Liquid Watercolour inks are a versatile and user-friendly option for handmade paper projects. With their range of colours and unique, translucent effect, these inks are perfect for calligraphers, artists, and designers looking for a distinctive, handcrafted look. So, why not give them a try on your next project and see the difference for yourself?