DIY Homemade Carbon Ink: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of water
  • 3 teaspoons of Gum Arabic
  • 1 tablespoon of Honey
  • 2 tablespoons of Lamp black or soot
  • 1 Glass jar with a tight lid for storage
  • 1 Ceramic, glass or plastic bowl for mixing
  • 1 Paintbrush or old toothbrush for mixing

Steps and instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients and tools.
  2. In your bowl, mix the water and Gum Arabic together until the Gum Arabic is completely dissolved.
  3. Add the honey to the bowl and stir until it's evenly distributed.
  4. Slowly add the Lamp Black or soot to the bowl, stirring continuously with your paintbrush or toothbrush. Continue to add soot until the mixture has a thick, ink-like consistency.
  5. Once the mixture is fully combined and has reached the desired consistency, transfer it into your glass jar for storage.
  6. Seal the jar tightly to prevent the ink from drying out. Remember to always close the jar immediately after use.
  7. Before using the ink, shake the jar well to ensure the mixture is homogeneous.
  8. Your carbon ink is now ready for use. If you find the ink too thick, add a small amount of water to reach your preferred consistency. If the ink is too thin, add more soot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Experiment with different types of soot or carbon sources, such as charcoal or graphite, to create variations in color and texture.
  • Add a small amount of alcohol, like rubbing alcohol or vodka, to the mixture to improve the ink flow and drying time.
  • Try adding a drop or two of essential oils, such as lavender or peppermint, to add a subtle fragrance to the ink.
  • For a waterproof ink, mix in a small amount of shellac or varnish.
  • To create a metallic effect, mix in metallic powders or pigments, such as copper or gold.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the mixture to increase the ink's preservation properties.
  • Experiment with different ratios of Gum Arabic and water to adjust the thickness and consistency of the ink.
  • Consider using different types of honey for varying levels of sweetness and aroma.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own carbon ink. Carbon ink, known for its rich, deep black color, has been used for centuries in various forms of writing and artwork. The recipe is straightforward and the ingredients can be readily found or easily procured. By following the steps, you'll prepare and store a batch of homemade carbon ink that will serve you well for all your writing or drawing needs. Please note that this ink should be handled with care as it can stain surfaces. Enjoy the process of creating your very own, homemade carbon ink and the satisfaction of using a tool that you've created yourself.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of binder instead of Gum Arabic?
    Yes, you can experiment with different binders like gelatin or shellac, but the proportions and consistency may vary. Gum Arabic is commonly used in carbon ink recipes for its adhesive properties.
  2. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
    Honey adds viscosity and helps prevent the ink from drying out too quickly. You can try using other sweeteners like sugar syrup or corn syrup, but keep in mind that the consistency and drying time may be different.
  3. What can I use instead of Lamp Black or soot?
    Lamp Black or soot is a traditional pigment used in carbon ink. If you don't have access to it, you can try using charcoal powder or even finely ground graphite as a substitute.
  4. How long can I store the carbon ink?
    If stored properly in a tightly sealed jar, carbon ink can last for several months. However, it's important to periodically check the ink for any signs of spoilage or mold.
  5. Can I adjust the ink's consistency?
    Yes, you can adjust the consistency of the ink by adding small amounts of water to thin it out or more soot to make it thicker. It's best to make gradual adjustments to achieve the desired consistency.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Carbon ink, an ancient recipe that has been used for thousands of years, has its roots in China. As far back as 23rd century BC, during the Western Zhou Dynasty, Chinese artisans would collect the soot from burning pine or oil lamps and mix it with water and a binding agent such as gum arabic or animal glue to create a dark, durable ink. This ink was then used in traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting, both highly respected art forms which required precision and control, characteristics that carbon ink could provide. The recipe for carbon ink traveled along the Silk Road, influencing cultures and sparking creativity along the way. Its simplicity and effectiveness ensured its popularity, and to this day, artists and calligraphers across the world use this age-old method to create their masterpieces.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.