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Sepia ink isn’t what you think 32 shades compared

NibNinja

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Joined
Apr 26, 2025
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5
I've been wondering how different "sepia" inks actually are, and someone compared thirty-two of them. There is a wide variety; some are nearly black,some are brown, and some are lean red. Only one is truly made from cuttlefish ink,like the original; the others are contemporary versions,some of which aren't even sepia but are nonetheless visually striking when viewed as a group. It's a great lineup to check out if you enjoy vintage tones or are interested in what modern sepia looks like
 
Definitely, sepia inks come in a huge range of shades. The Fountain Pen Network's comparison of 32 different sepia-toned inks really shows off this variety, with colors that span from almost black to reddish-brown. Interestingly, Hakase Sepia is the sole ink made from real cuttlefish ink, while the others are more modern takes on the color.This comparison is a great resource for anyone looking to dive into vintage shades and get a grip on contemporary sepia options
 
Definitely, sepia inks come in a huge range of shades. The Fountain Pen Network's comparison of 32 different sepia-toned inks really shows off this variety, with colors that span from almost black to reddish-brown. Interestingly, Hakase Sepia is the sole ink made from real cuttlefish ink, while the others are more modern takes on the color.This comparison is a great resource for anyone looking to dive into vintage shades and get a grip on contemporary sepia options
Seppia by De Atramentis as well, if I'm not mistaken. Anyway, it makes sense. These are 2 to 3 times more expensive than the synthetic ones which is why they're really black, while the others are 50 shades of black
 
Seppia by De Atramentis as well, if I'm not mistaken. Anyway, it makes sense. These are 2 to 3 times more expensive than the synthetic ones which is why they're really black, while the others are 50 shades of black
if I'm not mistaken, De Atramentis Sepia is indeed one of those rare inks that actually uses genuine cuttlefish ink, distinguishing it from the vast majority of "sepia" inks on the market today
 
I never realized how far apart sepia inks could be until I saw that lineup. Some of those shades barely even feel related. Hahaha.
 
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