Best Drawing Inks of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Drawing inks are a versatile and essential tool for artists and designers alike. These inks are highly pigmented, allowing for rich and vibrant colors to be achieved in artwork. They come in a variety of types, including waterproof, non-toxic, and acrylic-based options. Drawing inks can be used with a variety of tools, such as dip pens, brushes, and airbrushes, and are suitable for use on a range of surfaces, including paper, canvas, and board. Whether creating traditional illustrations or modern graphic designs, drawing inks are a must-have for any artist's toolkit.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Winsor & Newton Collection Drawing Ink Set Cover #TOP 1
Winsor & Newton Collection Drawing Ink Set
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink Bottle, 1.0 oz, Black Cover #TOP 2
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink Bottle, 1.0 oz, Black
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink (Set 1) Cover #TOP 3
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink (Set 1)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Drawing Inks

#TOP 1

Winsor & Newton Collection Drawing Ink Set

1090093
Multi
8 Count (Pack of 1)
Winsor & Newton Collection Drawing Ink Set Cover
Winsor & Newton Collection Drawing Ink Set, Set of 8, Henry Collection

The Winsor & Newton Collection Drawing Ink Set of 8 in the Henry Collection is formulated from a series of soluble dyes in a shellac solution, offering unrivaled strength and color brilliance. The set includes Canary Yellow, Orange, Carmine, Violet, Blue, Emerald, Nut Brown, and Black, allowing the overlaying of different colors for attractive color mixes.

What We Like
Vibrant and pigmented colors
Versatile applications
Quick drying time
Great for blending
Sturdy glass bottles
What We Don't Like
Some colors differ from expectations
Possible leaking issues
#TOP 2

Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink Bottle, 1.0 oz, Black

BOMB10OZS7BY
Black
1.0 oz
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink Bottle, 1.0 oz, Black Cover
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India (7BY) Ink Bottle, 1.0 oz, Black

Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay Ink is a high-quality drawing ink that comes in a 1.0 oz glass bottle with a dropper. This ink is made from the finest ground pigments, resulting in vibrant colors that are lightfast, permanent, and waterproof when dry. With 24 unique colors available across two different sets, you can create a wide range of art. The dropper makes it easy to control the amount of ink you use, allowing you to create precise lines, while the waterproof feature ensures that your artwork will last for a long time. Whether you're a professional artist or a beginner, Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay Ink is an excellent choice for your art supplies.

What We Like
Smooth application
Highly pigmented
Quick drying
Waterproof
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Thin consistency initially
Requires frequent shaking
#TOP 3

Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink (Set 1)

BOMB10OZSET1
Set 1 Colors
1.0 oz
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink (Set 1) Cover
Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay India Ink (Set 1) Ink Set, 1.0 oz, Set 1 Colors, 1 Set of 12 Bottles

Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay Ink Set is a set of high-quality India inks perfect for your drawing needs. This set includes 12 vibrant colors, each in a 1.0 oz glass bottle with a dropper for easy and precise application. The inks are made from the finest ground pigments, ensuring rich and vibrant colors in your artwork. They are also lightfast, meaning they won't fade over time, and are waterproof when dry, allowing you to use them with confidence in various applications. The set also comes with a mixing palette, making it convenient for you to create your desired colors. Made in the USA, Dr. Ph. Martin's Bombay Ink Set is a reliable choice for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

What We Like
Vibrant, intense colors
Waterproof, no bleeding
Versatile for various techniques
Long-lasting with minimal use
What We Don't Like
Packaging could be sturdier
Purple ink may appear too dark
#TOP 4

Liquidraw 10 Colored India Ink Set

IW04
10 Colours
24 x 10.5 x 6 cm
Liquidraw 10 Colored India Ink Set Cover
Liquidraw Drawing Ink Set of 10 Colored India Ink Bottles 35ml Waterproof Assorted Colors Colorful Indian Inks for Art, Painting, Artists, Calligraphy, Dip Pens, Brushes, Canvas, Fabric & Wood

The Liquidraw Colored Ink Set includes 10 vibrant, waterproof inks that are perfect for artists like you. Each 35ml bottle features a rich color palette, including classic shades like black and blue, as well as bright options like pink and lemon yellow. These inks are non-toxic and lightfast, ensuring your artwork remains vivid over time. They're versatile enough for various applications, whether you're using dip pens, brushes, or experimenting with different surfaces such as paper, fabric, or wood. This set is an excellent choice for calligraphy and painting, making your creative projects easier and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Vibrant color options
Good for controlled glazing
Beautiful on watercolor paper
Expressive for personal correspondence
Value for money
What We Don't Like
Not fully waterproof
May require longer drying time
#TOP 5

Higgins Black Magic Pigmented Drawing Ink

HI44-011
Black
1 oz
Higgins Black Magic Pigmented Drawing Ink Cover
Higgins Black Magic Pigmented Drawing Ink, 1 Ounce Bottle (44011)

The Higgins Black Magic Pigmented Drawing Ink is a professional artist's favorite with its intense, opaque black, waterproof color. It can be used with brushes, dip pens, and airbrushes on paper, board, and film. The fast drying time produces a matte sheen, and the bottle contains a dropper to make ink easy to dispense without the risk of spilling. The ink is also AP Non-Toxic and conforms to ASTM D-4241, making it safe for use.

What We Like
Reliable black ink
Waterproof when dry
Good for washes
Nice matte finish
Easy to use dropper
What We Don't Like
Containers not airtight
May bleed on some papers
#TOP 6

ROYAL TALENS Waterproof Drawing Ink

43727000
Black
One Size
ROYAL TALENS Waterproof Drawing Ink Cover
ROYAL TALENS NORTH AMERICA TALENS Drawing Ink Black, One Size

ROYAL TALENS Waterproof Drawing Ink is a professional-grade product suitable for use by technical pen and airbrush. It is designed to adhere to various paper types, cardboard, and film. The package includes 490ml of ink that conforms to ASTM D 4236 standards. This high-quality drawing ink is imported and ideal for professional artists who require waterproof ink.

What We Like
Solid pigment quality
Versatile for various art styles
Dark and smooth ink
Excellent for tattoo and lining
Neutral grey tones when diluted
What We Don't Like
Hard to clean up
Inconsistent with water mixing
#TOP 7

Winsor & Newton Black Drawing Ink

1011030
Black Dropper Cap
30ml Bottle
Winsor & Newton Black Drawing Ink Cover
Winsor & Newton Drawing Ink, 30ml Bottle, Black Dropper Cap

The Winsor & Newton Ink is specially crafted using high-quality soluble dyes mixed in a durable shellac solution. This unique formulation allows you to achieve vibrant and consistent colors, whether you're working with a brush, dip pen, or airbrush. Its versatility makes it a favorite among designers, calligraphers, and artists alike, enabling you to express creativity in various styles. You’ll appreciate how easily this ink flows, giving you the freedom to create intricate details or bold strokes without hassle.

What We Like
Opaque and richly pigmented
Smooth flow and application
Waterproof when dry
Fast-drying quality
No bad odor
What We Don't Like
Difficult to re-wet once dried
Not truly water-resistant
#TOP 8

Daler-Rowney FW Acrylic Ink Black

DR 160 029 028
Black (India)
29.5ml
Daler-Rowney FW Acrylic Ink Black Cover
Daler-Rowney FW Acrylic Ink Bottle Black - Versatile Acrylic Drawing Ink for Artists and Students - Permanent Calligraphy Ink - Archival Ink for Illustrating and More

Daler-Rowney Acrylic Ink offers a vibrant and versatile option for artists and students alike. The ink boasts rich, bold colors thanks to its premium pigments, allowing you to use it directly from the dropper for striking results or mix it with water for softer washes. With excellent lightfastness, your creations will resist fading, ensuring your work lasts. This ink is also highly adaptable; use it in airbrushes, technical pens, or even as watercolor ink, making it perfect for various art projects. Available in 45 vivid colors, you can easily mix and match to create your perfect palette.

What We Like
Versatile for various techniques
Rich black color
Durable packaging
Doesn't bleed on correct paper
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Not India Ink
#TOP 9

New York Central India Ink 16oz

JA401-000
16oz
New York Central India Ink 16oz Cover
New York Central® India Ink 16oz Bottle - Make an Impact with Matte Black India Ink, Perfect for Artists, Calligraphy, Illustrations, & More!

The New York Central India Ink is a premium choice for artists looking to create striking and vibrant artwork. This permanent, waterproof ink features a rich matte black finish that stands out on any medium. With its exceptional lightfastness and archival quality, you can trust that your creations will last. The ink is versatile, flowing smoothly with various tools like dip pens and brushes, allowing you to explore different techniques. Additionally, you can dilute it with water to achieve beautiful shades of grey, making it perfect for layered illustrations.

What We Like
Nice dark black color
Quick drying time
Smooth, consistent flow
Good value for price
Permanent, non-reactivating ink
What We Don't Like
Shipping took a long time
Lid arrived broken
#TOP 10

Higgins Black Calligraphy Ink

44314
Black
Higgins Black Calligraphy Ink Cover
Higgins Black Calligraphy Ink, 2.5 Ounce Bottle (44314)

Higgins Black Calligraphy Ink is a pigment-based ink that is perfect for use with brushes, fountain pens, and dip pens on paper, board, and film. It is free-flowing, fade-proof, and waterproof, making it a reliable choice for artists and calligraphers. The medium drying time produces a semi-gloss sheen, adding a professional touch to your work. This ink is made in the USA.

What We Like
Good dark black color
Flows well from pen or brush
Fast drying time
Waterproof and affordable
Fountain pen friendly
What We Don't Like
Requires layering for true black
May need viscosity adjustments
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is drawing ink the same as pen ink?

No, drawing ink is not the same as pen ink. Drawing ink is specifically designed to dry faster than writing ink. Using drawing or calligraphy inks in a fountain pen can cause the ink to dry up inside the pen reservoir, making it difficult to clean.

2. What is the difference between drawing ink and calligraphy ink?

The main difference between drawing ink and calligraphy ink is the base of the ink. Drawing ink is dye-based, while calligraphy ink is pigment-based. This means that calligraphy ink is fully lightfast, making it more suitable for long-lasting artwork.

3. What ink do cartoonists use?

Cartoonists commonly use dip pens or brushes with India ink, refillable brush pens, technical fine-nib pens, and fountain pens for inking their drawings.

4. What is the difference between watercolor ink and drawing ink?

Watercolor ink is made up of pigment particles suspended in water, while drawing ink is more of a liquid stain. This means that watercolor hues will mix more, while layered drawing ink will create new colors with the light shining through the different layers.

5. Is drawing ink the same as tattoo ink?

No, drawing ink is not the same as tattoo ink. Drawing ink is typically a dye-based ink, while tattoo ink is a pigment-based ink with solid particles suspended in a liquid carrier.

6. Is drawing ink permanent?

Most drawing inks are not permanent and may fade over time. However, there are exceptions such as Liquid Indian Ink and Black Indian Drawing Ink, which are more lightfast and permanent.

7. What pen to use with drawing ink?

Fineliner pens are commonly used with drawing ink. Brands like Pigma Micron and Copic Multiliner offer high-quality options with various nib sizes. These pens are often used by artists for their precision and refillable ink.

8. Can you use drawing ink for calligraphy?

Yes, drawing ink can be used for calligraphy. While calligraphy ink is more opaque and traditionally used for writing, drawing ink's translucency can also create beautiful effects in calligraphy work.

Editor's Notes

During our drawing ink research, we found 24 drawing ink products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 49,560 customer reviews through our big data system to write the drawing inks list. We found that most customers choose drawing inks with an average price of $16.27.

The drawing inks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of drawing inks, including Winsor & Newton, Dr. Ph. Martin's, Liquidraw, Higgins, Royal Talens. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Drawing Inks Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand Winsor & Newton Dr. Ph. Martin's Dr. Ph. Martin's Liquidraw Higgins Royal Talens Winsor & Newton Daler Rowney New York Central Higgins
Package Information Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle
Item Volume 14 Milliliters 1 Fluid Ounces 30 Milliliters 35 Milliliters 29.5 Milliliters 490 Milliliters 300 Milliliters 29.5 Milliliters 16 Fluid Ounces 59 Milliliters
Ink Color Yellow White,Black - Blue,Pink,Black Black Black Black Black Black White,Black
Paint Type Airbrush Watercolor Watercolor India Ink Watercolor Alcohol Airbrush Acrylic Watercolor -
Item Weight 1.21 pounds 2.82 ounces 2.4 pounds 1.34 pounds - - - - 1.23 pounds -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.4
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