In this article, you will discover everything you need to know from choosing ink, using ink, to store ink.

How to Grind Ink Using an Ink stone and Ink Stick

Using an ink stone (砚台) and ink stick (墨条) is a traditional and meditative part of Chinese painting and calligraphy. Here’s how to do it properly:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Add Water to the Ink stone
   1. Pour a small amount of clean water into the ink stone.
   2. You don’t need much — about a teaspoon is enough to start.
2. Hold the Ink Stick Properly
   1. Hold the ink stick vertically, with a relaxed but steady grip.
   2. Make sure the bottom of the ink stick is flat against the surface of the ink stone.
3. Begin Grinding in Circles
   1. Gently grind the ink stick in slow circular motions over the flat surface where the water is.
   2. Don’t press too hard; let the weight of the stick do the work.
   3. As you grind, the water will slowly turn black, becoming liquid ink.
4. Adjust the Consistency
   1. The longer you grind, the richer and thicker the ink becomes.
   2. For calligraphy, a slightly thicker ink is preferred; for painting, especially lighter washes, you may want thinner ink.
5. Clean Up Afterwards
   1. After use, rinse your ink stone with clean water and wipe it dry with a cloth.
   2. Do not leave water or ink in the ink stone, as it can damage the surface over time.
   3. Wipe the ink stick dry and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably upright.

Using Bottled Liquid Ink for Calligraphy and Painting

While traditional grinding with an ink stick offers a meditative experience and full control over ink thickness, many artists and students prefer the convenience of bottled liquid ink for daily use.

How to Use Bottled Ink:

• Shake Before Use
  • Before opening the bottle, gently shake it to ensure the ink is well-mixed.
  • This helps avoid settling of pigment at the bottom.
• Pour a Small Amount
  • Pour a small amount of ink into a clean ink dish or palette.
  • Never dip your brush directly into the ink bottle — this can contaminate the ink or damage your brush.
• Adjust with Water (If Needed)
  • Bottled ink is usually ready to use straight away, but you can add a few drops of clean water to slightly dilute it if a lighter tone or smoother flow is desired.
• Brush Care Reminder
  • Always clean your brush thoroughly after using bottled ink, especially around the base of the bristles, to prevent pigment buildup.

How to Properly Store Ink Sticks and Bottled Ink

Taking care of your ink materials will help preserve their quality and ensure they last for years. Below are best practices for storing both ink sticks and bottled liquid ink.

Ink Stick (墨条) Storage Tips

• Keep It Dry
  • After use, wipe the ink stick with a soft cloth or paper towel to remove any moisture.
  • Never leave the ink stick wet, as this can cause mould, cracking, or discolouration.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight and Humidity
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and damp air.
  • A wooden box, brush cabinet, or ceramic holder with a lid is ideal.
• Store Upright (If Possible)
  • For long-term storage, it's best to keep the ink stick standing upright, which reduces pressure on the edges and helps prevent warping or damage.

Bottled Ink (墨汁) Storage Tips

• Keep the Lid Tightly Closed
  • Always seal the bottle tightly after use to prevent the ink from drying out or thickening.
  • If the lid is left open, the ink can become unusable due to evaporation or dust contamination.
• Store in a Cool, Shaded Area
  • Keep away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and freezing temperatures.
  • Ideal storage temperature: 10–25°C (50–77°F)
• Shake Occasionally (If Unused for Long Periods)
  • If unused for weeks or months, gently shake the bottle before your next use to ensure even consistency.
• Do Not Pour Unused Ink Back Into the Bottle
  • Once ink has been poured out for use, do not return it to the original bottle, as it may contain dust, brush residue, or diluted water that could affect the ink’s quality.