Several years ago, as part of my Fountain Pen 101 Series, I wrote about inks. In that post, I mentioned how some “inks are considered “tried and true” in that they work well with virtually all pens and flow well.”I cited Diamine and Pilot Iroshizuku as two “tried and true” inks. I’ve since learned that Waterman inks have a similar reputation. However, in my own experience, I’ve discovered another ink brand that should have been on on that list: J(acques) Herbin.
I don’t know why Herbin inks don’t get more hype. I’ve learned, over the past year, that Herbin inks are pretty foolproof. I can put them in a pen that tends to hard start (even with P.I. and Diamine), and, suddenly, it’s smooth sailing. It’s amazing.
Even better, I’ve had Orange Indien in my Platinum Kurikara-ken with a F nib since March 26, and it hasn’t caused any crustiness. For those who aren’t aware, orange inks tend to get crusty if left for too long. THe pen hasn’t hard started once in that time, either.
I will say, I’ve only used the J. Herbin inks, not the newer Jacques Herbin ones. I’d assume, since they’re by the same company, that they perform the same, but you never know.
If you haven’t tried Herbin inks, give them a go. And if you have any problematic pens, try an Herbin ink and see if it makes a difference.
So, have you tried Herbin inks? Do you like them as much as I do Let me know in the comments.
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I love the J. Herbin shimmer inks. They seem to have fine enough particulates to not be problematic in the pens I’ve tried. I even kept my favorite, Cornaline D’Egypte, in a cartridge/converter Delta continuously for 6 months with no ill effects.
I do like the colors of the shimmer inks. I’ll usually leave the shimmer to settle and just use the color. 😀 I’m not a shimmer ink person in general.