Inktober is a fantastic challenge that inspires artists worldwide to sharpen their inking skills throughout October. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time participant, having the right supplies can make all the difference. Here are my top recommendations to help you get the most out of Inktober!
How to prepare yourself for Inktober? All about it in my post.
Ink Pens for Precision
Micron Pens: A classic in the world of inking, Microns are perfect for clean lines and intricate details. They come in a variety of tip sizes, from the ultra-fine 0.05 mm to bolder 0.8 mm, giving you flexibility for different styles. Find it here.
Unipin Fineliners: Similar to Microns, these pens offer waterproof and fade-resistant ink, perfect for long-lasting results. You can find it here.
Fountain Pens: If you want to add a touch of elegance, try using a fountain pen. Brands like Lamy and Kaweco offer refillable options with nibs that provide smooth line variation. You can order Lamy pen here.
Brush Pens for Bold Strokes
Pentel Pocket Brush Pen: This pen is beloved for its versatility, providing rich, dark ink that flows smoothly. It’s great for expressive line work and can also handle detailed strokes if you master the pressure. You can order it here.
Tombow Fudenosuke: Ideal for beginners, this pen offers control with both soft and hard tips. Its ink is water-resistant, perfect if you want to add a watercolor wash to your sketches. You can order the brush pen here.
Dip Pens for Traditionalists
Speedball Dip Pen Set: For artists who love traditional methods, dip pens offer a unique feel and control over line weight. Paired with India ink or Higgins Black Magic Ink, you can achieve stunning, smooth lines with an old-school vibe. Order the set here.
High-Quality Paper
Bristol Board: When using heavy ink, you need paper that can handle it. Bristol board is smooth and thick, perfect for ink drawings without any bleed-through or feathering.
Strathmore Mixed Media Paper: If you like to mix ink with other media, such as watercolor or markers, this paper holds up well to wet and dry techniques. Order mixed media paper here.
Moleskine Art Sketchbook: For those who like to keep all their Inktober pieces in one book, Moleskine’s art sketchbooks are durable and travel-friendly. Order your sketchbook here.
Ink
Winsor & Newton Black Indian Ink: A high-quality ink that’s permanent and waterproof, allowing you to work over your lines with watercolors or washes without smudging. Order it here.
Dr. Ph. Martin’s Bombay Black Ink: This ink is highly pigmented and lightfast, ensuring your Inktober masterpieces stand the test of time. You can purchase the ink here.
Whether you’re going for intricate details, bold brush strokes, or something in between, having the right tools is essential for getting the most out of Inktober. Experiment with different supplies to find what works best for your style, and most importantly, have fun and embrace the challenge!
