Making Mineral Inks

Red Ochre & Cypress Green Inks

Minerals and earth pigments create vibrant, long-lasting color when used to make ink.

You will need:

• 1/2 tsp minerals/earth pigments (found* or purchased)

  *Will need to be levigated

• 5 mL Ink binder

• Glass plate and muller

• Palette knife

• Distilled water

• 1 ounce bottle (dropper lid recommended)

1. Begin by placing 1/2 tsp of your mineral pigment and 5 mL binder in the center of the glass plate.

2. Use your palette knife to combine.

3. Mix well with the glass muller. Smooth, gentle motions are all that is required. After a few minutes, the grittiness should resolve, and your pigment is ready to be transferred.

4. Use your palette knife to transfer the pigment solution to your bottle.

5. Top off with distilled water for a total of 1 ounce of ink.

6. Mix well before each use.

7. This ink will be very lightfast and can be stored wherever desired. Refrigeration is not needed.