#Binder Nib

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Carpe Noctem 25

Warnings: dark elements, noncon, age gap, gaslighting, manipulation, violence, blood, other dark elements. Proceed with caution. (short!reader)

Note: Please let me know what you think as it helps me a lot with ideas and I love interacting with you all.

Part of The Club AU

“I think they’ll make great specials,” Cole says as he carefully uses tongs to set the desserts in the display, “you’ll have to write out a list of ingredients we need. Oh, and your receipts.”

“They’re in my bag,” you flick your lashes as you resist a yawn.

“Great,” he hands the tongs to Peter, “grab ‘em and lets go make an inventory.”

Peter takes the tongues and meets your eye. He arches a brow to say, ‘I told you’. You really don’t think much of it. Cole just seems a bit eager and a touch distractible.

You grab your bag and follow Cole to his office. He enters ahead of you and rounds the desk, swiveling the chair to the side, “sit.”

“Oh, it’s fine–”

“Really, I’ll be up and down,” he insists, “I want you to make your list. Oh, and the receipts…” he lets go of the chair and opens the drawer, “I’ll add it…” He takes out a binder with pages jutting out and strips of receipt dangling from the side.

“Uh,” you go around the other side of the desk. You sit as you watch Cole with his messy binder. That can’t be his filing. “Is that–”

“Everything, yeah.”

“Cole,” you lean your elbow on the desk and press your palm to your neck, “you need to back that up. Please tell me you have it on your laptop.”

“Huh, oh, no, it’s fine. Everything’s here. I’m a paper guy, you know?”

“Yeah? Look at this place. When’s the last time you had a fire inspection? The light switch in the bathroom crackles when you turn it on,” you say.

“Well, I wouldn’t know where to start getting this on the computer,” he stands straight, “I send emails at most.”

“Hmm, there are programs… I can show you. I worked as a secretary a few years ago. Wasn’t my favourite but I picked up a few tricks.”

“You? A secretary?” He grins, “what about the daycare?”

“That was after. I worked a desk to get through school.”

“Hmm, we’ll have to see. You might have to take the lead on the whole back up situation,” he slides out a lined pad from inside the binder, “here, make the list and we’ll go over what we already have after.”

“Right, sounds…” you pause and seal your lips against another yawn, “good.”

“You okay?” He asks, surprising you as he touches your shoulder, rubbing just a little.

“Yeah, yeah, fine,” you reach for a pen and he lets go. “Baking too longer than I thought.”

You laugh off the half-lie and incap the bic. You set to jotting out each ingredient as Cole watches. He finally backs off, sniffing as he checks his watch. You glance up as he gets to the door. He smiles at you and you give one an awkward one in return.

He leaves you and you hunch forward. You lean your head in your hand, dragging the nib lazily. Your eyelids begin to droop as you try to remember every little teaspoon. You haven’t slept well since… well, you didn’t even sleep much with Johnny.

You stop to rub your eye, shoulders stiff, slouching lower and lower. Your weight centers on your elbow as you droop lower and lower. You don’t feel the impact on the desk as you fold over and your cheek hits the paper. Your snores swallow you up into sleep, a coaxing rumble for your fatigue.

☕

You grumble as a pang ripples up your neck and between your shoulders. At first, the world is distant and hazy. You search for the last memory you have of consciousness and sit back so fast, you trigger that same stabbing pain again. 

You reach to touch your neck as you come face to face with the office. And Cole. He sits calmly in a chair, one pulled in from the dining area, as he balances the binder on his lap. He glances up with his eyes, keeping his head bent.

“Morning, sleepy head.”

“What? Morning? How long…” you choke on your words and wipe your dry lips with the back of your hand.

“It’s just after closing. Don’t worry. Not a whole day.”

“What? Why wouldn’t you wake me up?” You try to stand and slip back down, tamping down a grunt as a nerve behind your shoulder blade zaps.

“You looked peaceful. And tired. Besides, I’ll still pay you. We’ll count all the time you took baking as overtime–”

“Why– Cole, that’s very nice but… I don’t wanna take advantage of you.”

“You’re not. You’re saving me. You have the best ideas. Specials and seasonal goods, and you’re going to teach me how to use Excel.”

You nearly laugh. This is absurd. Are you still dreaming?

You reach for your purse and find it open. You dig out your phone and check the time. Holy shit. It’s after seven.

“Hope you don’t mind, I just took the receipts out myself,” he holds up a handful, “didn’t touch anything else.”

“I… I forgot. That’s fine,” you push yourself up with all your strength, ignoring the plucking in your neck. You snatch up your purse and walk stiffly to the other side of the desk. “I have to go.”

“Oh, of course, you good to drive?”

“Uh, yeah, I’d say I’m well rested,” you scoff as you grab your jacket from the rack.

He stands as you don’t even try to put the jacket on. That’s just going to hurt even more. You face him as you fix your grip on your purse.

“I’m so sorry. It won’t happen again.”

“No worries,” he puts the binder in the chair and stands straight, “really, I don’t mind. It was kinda nice… comforting. I’m usually in here alone.”

“Ah, yeah, I guess, sorry but I got a drive ahead of me,” you try to smile, “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Sure,” his cheeks twitch, “tomorrow.”

You nod, regretting that careless gesture. You scurry to the door and he follows. You look over your shoulder, confused. Another mistake.

“Gotta lock the door behind you,” he explains.

“Oh, yeah, right.”

He follows you through the front, desolate and silent. The dark windows are jarring. You lost a whole day. It’s entirely upending. You turn back the latch but Cole reaches around you to open the door himself. You step outside and pause on the stoop, angling your whole body back to him.

“See ya, Cole.”

“See ya, h– uhhh, tomorrow,” he sputters, blanching as if he’s been caught, “can’t wait.”

You hold back a snort. He’s awkward but that’s reassuring. He’s not pushy like Johnny or Lloyd, he’s just a bit lost. Just like you.

[feytouched]

new pens and inks day! 🤍 i'm so happy with all the things i got in this haul. i sorted out the issue with the 1.9 kaweco nib (when i switched the original one with it i didn't push it in properly) so it writes correctly now! and the nahvalur pen is so nice, it feels hefty and writes finer than i expected which is always welcome imo. and it looks so pretty!

the inks are two more bangers from sailor and i had fun using the swatch cards and binder from wearingeul to swatch my entire collection. overall a win for the girlies 🫶🏻

[doll-collecting-aerialist]

AG Items and Dolls I’ve Found While Thrifting!!

I’ve been collecting for a couple years at this point, but my favorite finds are always the unexpected ones at local thrift stores!! Here are some of the things I’ve found (that I remember)

Dolls:

JLY #21 w/ Star hoodie meet

JLY #33 w/ Mia’s underwear

JLY #39 w/ Rebecca’s one piece PJS

Grace Thomas w/ meet shirt

Kira Bailey w/ accessories and meet

JLY #16 w/blue snowflake PJs (hair cut. fixed and gave away for a family friend’s birthday)

Joss Kendrick (when I worked at a thrift store- she was sold by the time I got off shift and went to buy her)

Multiple Julies (again, when I worked at a thrift store. I have two Julie dolls so I didn’t see a point in buying them.)

Lea Clark NIB (the store wanted $175 for her- no thank you)

Kendall (WW)

Willa (WW- I’ve seen and priced multiple when I worked at the thrift store. I’ve only bought one.)

Camille (WW- I don’t like her so I’ve never bought her. She looks like my elementary school bully and shares her name. Also one of the thrift stores wanted $40 for a one-legged Camille)

Large Items:

Samantha’s Bed (this came from what we called an “estate dump” at my old thrift job- ie. someone dying and their family dumping all their possessions to the thrift store. Samantha’s bedding had to be disposed of with all other soft items in this “dump” because of infestation. Since Samantha’s bed frame is metal, I scrubbed it and saved it.)

Julie’s Bed and Bedding

Floral Bed and Bedding

Kit’s Roll-Top Desk

Julie’s Egg Chair

Truly Me Chestnut Horse (For Felicity)

AG Hair Styling Caddy

Truly Me Grill (from a mid 2010s TM camping set)

Coconut

Kanani’s Dog (bought and gave to a friend)

Random AG Farm Fence Pieces and Food Items (honestly the weirdest lot of items. Fence pieces from a horse set, some of Molly’s multiplication cards, Truly Me meet boots, a doll sized AG waterbottle from a TM backpack set, etc)

AG Bubble Bath (bought and eventually re-donated. It wasn’t in the best condition and I want the dark blue bathtub JLY bathtub instead. I kept some of the bubbles.)

AG Electric Car (thrift store forgot to give me the controller and when I went back they said they sold said controller to someone else?? Eventually re-donated because these dolls are eight why are they driving?)

AG Hair Styling Chair (never seen one in good enough condition to buy)

Julie’s Bathroom Set (store wanted $75 with NO accessory items and water damage. No thank you, especially not for an item that I can only use for a couple photo ideas.)

AG Concession Stand (had no accessories. Couldn’t justify having such a large incomplete, poor condition item taking up space in my house.)

WW Magical Llamacorn and Carriage (I wanted it but where am I supposed to put it??)

Notable Paper Items and Books:

(Honestly my entire AG book collection comes from the thrift store, these are just the interesting items.)

An entire binder of AG trading cards and PC era pamphlets.

PC era stationary cards (thrift store had about 50 packs)

Kit’s Railway Adventure

Welcome To… World Books (multiple girls)

Addy’s Short Story Collection

Addy’s Theater Kit (x2- one well loved and one sealed)

Kit’s Stationary Set (sealed)

PC Story Collections for ALL the early girls (including Kit)

The American Girl Party Book

Hardcover library editions of all of the PC cookbooks

The American Girl Board Game

The American Girl Card Game

The American Girl Family Album

NIB STEM Craft Kit

AG Intermediate Fiction: A Sky Full of Stars, and Smoke Screen

What I Wish You Knew (a PC parenting book!! Gone before I could pick it up back when I worked at a thrift store)

Our New Baby (unfortunately it was moldy so I had to throw it away- this was at my thrift job)

Assorted History Mysteries and GOML

[hillbillyoracle]

Added a Calendar

It’s a Traveler’s Notebook passport sized undated monthly insert. I had to trim the back cover to get it to fit and it sticks out a little bit but it does the job. 

It seems like the spine on this notebook is coming unglued a little but I also have had that happen on other notebooks I didn’t have as much stuff in and it never impacted being able to use them. It can be a little tough to use the note pages without removing the binder clip but it’s mostly fine. And also I can just remove the binder clip, no big. 

I’ve been using this system for a month now and I’m really digging it. I like that I can just toss a task list if I get part through the day and it doesn’t align anymore. I like that it’s mostly to remind me what I thought sounded good and not necessarily to track every task I think I need to do. 

Other materials pictured: 

Leuchtturm A6 Lined Notebook in Black (going to switch to dotted though)

Faber-Castell Loom Fountain Pen with F nib

Birmingham Pen Co Ink - Ohio River

Generic brand notecards - 3 x 5

[sketchpens]

The Science Behind Sketch Pens: Understanding Ink Flow and Quality

Sketch pens are a fundamental tool in the arsenal of artists, designers, students, and hobbyists alike. They offer a unique blend of precision, vibrancy, and convenience that makes them indispensable for various creative and practical applications. But what exactly goes into making a high-quality sketch pen? Understanding the science behind sketch pens, particularly the mechanisms of ink flow and the factors determining ink quality, can help users appreciate their tools better and make informed choices when selecting sketch pens.

 The Anatomy of a Sketch Pen

A typical sketch pen consists of several key components:

1. Tip/Nib: The part that comes into contact with the drawing surface. It can be made from felt, plastic, or fiber.

2. Ink Reservoir: Stores the ink and ensures a consistent supply to the tip.

3. Barrel: The main body of the pen, housing the ink reservoir and providing grip.

4. Cap: Prevents the pen from drying out when not in use.

5. Ink Flow Mechanism: Controls the delivery of ink from the reservoir to the tip.

 Understanding Ink Flow

Ink flow is a critical aspect of a sketch pen’s performance. It determines how smoothly the pen writes, how consistent the lines are, and how much control the user has over the pen. Several factors influence ink flow:

 Capillary Action

Capillary action is the primary mechanism behind the ink flow in sketch pens. This phenomenon occurs when the adhesive force between the ink molecules and the inner walls of the pen’s nib or reservoir is stronger than the cohesive force between the ink molecules themselves. This allows the ink to move upwards against gravity through narrow spaces (capillaries) in the pen’s tip.

 Gravity and Pressure

Gravity plays a role in the ink flow, particularly in pens with vertical reservoirs. Additionally, some sketch pens utilize a pressurized ink cartridge, which ensures a consistent flow of ink irrespective of the pen's orientation. This is particularly useful for artists who draw at various angles.

 Wicking Material

The material used for the nib and reservoir also affects ink flow. Fiber tips and felt tips are designed to facilitate capillary action, drawing the ink out efficiently. The porosity and structure of these materials are engineered to maintain a steady ink flow without clogging.

 The Composition of Ink

The quality of a sketch pen is significantly influenced by the composition of its ink. High-quality inks are formulated to provide vibrant colors, quick drying times, and resistance to smudging or fading. The main components of sketch pen ink include:

 Pigments and Dyes

Pigments and dyes are responsible for the color of the ink. Dyes are soluble in the ink solvent and provide bright, transparent colors. Pigments, on the other hand, are insoluble particles that offer more opaque and lightfast colors. High-quality sketch pens often use a combination of both to achieve the desired color properties.

 Solvents

The solvent in sketch pen ink dissolves the dye and facilitates the flow of ink through the pen. Water is the most common solvent used in sketch pens, especially in water-based inks. Alcohol-based solvents are also used for their quick-drying properties and ability to adhere to non-porous surfaces.

 Additives

Various additives are included in the ink to enhance its performance. These can include:

- Surfactants: Improve the wetting properties of the ink, ensuring it spreads evenly on the paper.

- Humectants: Prevent the ink from drying out too quickly inside the pen.

- Resins and Binders: Provide the ink with adhesive properties, ensuring it sticks to the drawing surface.

 Factors Affecting Ink Quality

 Color Vibrancy and Consistency

The vibrancy and consistency of the ink color are crucial for artists and designers. High-quality sketch pens use finely ground pigments and high-purity dyes to achieve bright, consistent colors. The formulation must ensure that the color remains uniform without separating or settling over time.

 Drying Time and Smudge Resistance

Quick-drying inks are preferred to prevent smudging and allow for layering of colors. The drying time is influenced by the solvent used and the presence of additives like drying agents. Alcohol-based inks typically dry faster than water-based inks, making them ideal for fast-paced sketching.

 Lightfastness and Durability

Lightfastness refers to the ink's resistance to fading when exposed to light. This property is crucial for artworks intended to last. Pigments generally offer better lightfastness than dyes. Inks used in professional-grade sketch pens often undergo rigorous testing to ensure their durability under various environmental conditions.

 Flow Consistency and Control

Consistency in ink flow is essential for producing clean, precise lines. The ink formulation, combined with the design of the nib and reservoir, must ensure a steady flow without leaks or interruptions. High-quality sketch pens provide controlled ink flow, allowing artists to vary line thickness and create detailed work.

 Advances in Sketch Pen Technology

Recent advancements in sketch pen technology have focused on improving the user experience and expanding the range of applications. Some notable innovations include:

 Refillable Systems

Many high-end sketch pens now come with refillable ink cartridges, reducing waste and providing cost savings over time. Refillable systems also allow users to experiment with different ink types and colors.

 Dual-Tip Designs

Dual-tip sketch pens offer versatility by providing two different nib sizes or types in one pen. This allows artists to switch between fine details and broader strokes without changing pens.

 Ergonomic Designs

Ergonomically designed sketch pens reduce hand fatigue and improve grip, making them more comfortable to use during long drawing sessions. These designs often incorporate soft-touch materials and contoured shapes.

 Choosing the Right Sketch Pen

Selecting the right sketch pen involves considering several factors, including the intended use, the desired ink properties, and personal preferences. Here are some tips for choosing the best sketch pen:

1. Purpose: Determine whether the pen is for professional artwork, casual sketching, or specific tasks like calligraphy or illustration.

2. Ink Type: Choose between water-based or alcohol-based inks based on the desired drying time, vibrancy, and surface compatibility.

3. Nib Size and Type: Select the appropriate nib size and material for the type of lines you want to create. Fine tips are ideal for detailed work, while broader tips are better for filling larger areas.

4. Color Range: Consider the range of colors available and whether you need a set with multiple shades or a few primary colors.

5. Durability and Refillability: Look for pens with durable construction and refillable options if you plan to use them frequently.

Understanding the science behind sketch pens, particularly the mechanisms of ink flow and the factors influencing ink quality, can enhance your appreciation of these versatile tools. By recognizing the role of capillary action, the composition of inks, and the importance of various additives, you can make more informed decisions when selecting sketch pens. Advances in technology continue to improve the performance and versatility of sketch pens, offering artists and users an ever-expanding array of options. Whether you are a professional artist or a casual doodler, the right sketch pen can significantly impact the quality and enjoyment of your creative endeavors.

[wellappointeddesk]

Link Love: Binder Clip Bag

Years ago, I posted about the binder clip bag that appeared and then quickly disappeared from the internet. Today, I have a WHOLE video of how one luxury handbag maker created their version of this stunning, must-have for all stationery fashionistas. Think they would make me a pink one? Pens: Stylosuite Flex Nibs (via Mountain of Ink) Review: Papersmiths Primo in Coral (via KraftyCats) Refill…

[inkophile]

Pen And Ink Links

Pen And Ink Links

Are you up for a few posts about pens and inks?

The Well-Appointed Desk: Ink Overview: Cross Inks

Pen Chalet: Battle of the Purple Fountain Pen Inks: Not Your Typical Fountain Pen Ink Review

Write Experience: Falling in Love With Your Inks Again

Jet Pens: 9 Underrated Office Supplies You Need on Your Desk

The Well-Appointed Desk: Pen Review: The Procyon’s Place in the Platinum Line

Rupertarzeian…

[rrasado]

The demon brothers with an MC who always keeps there promise no matter how big it is? Like, for Levi: "If you help me with this I'll help you get all the money Mammon owes you back." and the next day he gets his money back? (You can ignore if you want. Sorry for any grammar mistakes english isn't my first language.)

• Solemnly Swear •

No worries anon dear the request is pretty clear cut! Personally this was therapeutic to write ngl, I had fun playing with it n.n there's just some days where even we have to wonder whether we make promises to keep or to purposely break.

When you keep your word:

He finds your diligence assuring, the first born of all people has had his fair share of broken vows in the past, some compromising his position in life. And even then, he of all people would know how easily influenced humans can be should something pose a threat to their made promises.

At first he didn't pay mind, Lucifer was just thankful you weren't a compulsive snatcher when it came to taking up minor tasks such as delivering information or finishing your work.

Once, he overheard you exchanging small talk with the young lord's personal butler. Something about asking whether the human can drop by to taste test a human realm dish he's been prepping to which you enthusiastically agreed. This in of itself wasn't all too alarming, had it not been for the fact that you technically already allotted time to discuss your academic progress with him later on.

Then again it would've been after dinner, so he gave you the benefit of the doubt not for your sake but to personally see how far you'd go to appease both parties. He wasn't all that confused when your seat at the dinner table remained empty (hushing mammon's worries with a scolding). Everything went as per usual and soon enough he was at his study, finishing his paperwork accompanied by the faint scratches of his pen nib on paper when suddenly a knock sounded at his door.

There you were, carrying something on one hand and your RAD school binder in the other, he half expected you to actually forget or purposely head straight to your room knowing how draining it was to entertain barbatos' testing. And yet here you were handing him a small portion of the food they made with the butler, plopping on the seat in front of his desk and briskly opening your notebook.

"I didn't think I'd make it but, even then I'll still try to come knocking like every Friday." "And you're so sure I'd be awake still?" "Mhm!"

As much as he'd like to lecture you regarding sleep schedule (hypocritical from him) he felt at ease knowing that your virtue was something you stuck yourself with, regardless of the circumstances. They say that you can tell something about a person based on how they deal with major and minor matters. And that moment was what made him have a bit more faith in you subconsciously.

Luci has to wonder whether who was the true devotee between you two, but that's a question left to be entertained another day. Perhaps he'll give you one more test by handing mammon's ass over to you.

Mammon, is likely the one who needs someone like you the most among the seven brothers. Scam and Betrayal was something he's a bit too familiar with considering his sin and antics. That's not even counting the fact that you were human- unfortunately the primary source of his general distrust at a certain point in time.

He pin pointed your habit from a cruel joke, one he made mindlessly while the two of you walked down the halls of RAD classes over. It wasn't anything major (that's what he thought at least) but it was around the time he first became your pact mate. Thus he decided to attempt milking out what he can from the situation he binded himself in.

He joked about treating him to a cup of some infamous devildom beverage exclusively sold at a certain hour at Hell's Kitchen. He wasn't expecting you to say yes, to which mammon's voice cracked and waved it off with a sure why not you're his master anyways so you should treat him with the best.

What he wasn't counting on was your genuine grin, lucifer just recently issued you your weekly allowance and truth be told you're also dying to get a sip of that drink ever since Luke rambled to you about the flavor it left once you've had three gulps of it. And since mammon has been less troublesome lately you really did agree with his off thrown request.

This was likely why you were confused after lining up for an hour at Hell's kitchen, you abruptly left at past 6 ish then return barely missing dinner. You didn't mind since you also bought take out but what was more confusing was mammon's frantic figure running down the staircase after spotting you from the House of Lamentation's Veranda.

"OI WHERE HAVE YA BEEN HOW DARE YOU WORRY THE GR-" "I'm sorry the line was longer than I anticipated-" "What line?!?!"

You had to slowly recount your routine since he demanded an alibi. His face transitioned from antsy to surprised to crestfallen to subtle guilt and eventually coughing to put up a fragile prideful front (we shall dub this the 5 stages of mammon/J). He wasn't actually expecting you to take him seriously...to be fair in that household, who did? He was about to voice more of his dilemma but was halted by you tugging him to your room. Explaining that you guys eat your freshly bought goods there to avoid Beel's appetite targeting your dinner.

I'm not one to advocate the "fix" or "dependency" mentality but, this case was different in of itself. Because in this case Mammon will slowly learn from your dedication, learn that perhaps life does offer some sort of leisure outside of what money can buy.

He doesn't think much of your habit, rather he's more focused on the "why" aspect, did you pity him? Were you hoping for something in return? What would you even gain from him in the first place? You didn't look like someone who's a die hard franchise fanatic like him so his merchandise was out the question,,

Speaking of merchandise. Levi's source of irritation was once again mammon's refusal to pay him back the money he regrettably lent to him, now he can't go after the recently issued light novel about ruri-chan's companion. And now you were the one witnessing his loathing in the corridor to where you thought of it as a bad time to approach him regarding an assignment about Devildom marine life.

You could've gone for the library but who knows what books actually have the information you need, the avatar of wrath was also an option but you weren't sure if he'd even agree to help you (begging the question of what made Levi any different?). Even you weren't entirely sure but you really do wanted his help specifically.

Putting on your big kid boots you marched up to him RAD textbook under your arm, the boy was of course startled and was tempted to flee from the scene but was stopped by you blurting out a rather tempting offer.

He was genuinely surprised when you promised to get him the money he needed. His initial rejection was pretty valid, asking what could you possibly want in return- that was when you gingerly pointed to your textbook and explaining the assignment. Levi at his wit's end agreed on the assumption that you were talking about the money from mammon specifically. Oh how sorely mistaken he was

"W-woi how the hell is that scumbag waving around a new jacket when you just got my money back from him last ni-" "Did..he now..."

You can only contain his panic so much when you admitted that the money was straight out of your allowance. OK to be fair you didn't break your promise because you vowed to have his money ready that morning- never mentioning where it'd come from. And to be fair² you did try going up to mammon first but you forgot he gambles at night specifically rendering you unable to go confront him. Levi couldn't help but to feel a tad bit guilty but was more envious of your generosity if anything.

He did go after Mammon once you and him finished your Devildom Marine assignment, on you of that you found a ruri-chan themed snack sitting in your locker the next day along with a note of whether you'd like to go to an anime themed Cafe with his treat. Leviathan wasn't one to believe in anime tropes (whether they'd work irl) but he could only try. You were truly Henry even to your word.

The avatar of wrath held no patience for those who break their word, unlike the firstborn he wasn't inherently out to test you. But by the time the events at the castle retreat took place he did began to eye just how much you'd go to keep up your virtue.

He really, really needed to get that parcel from Akuzon. But as luck would have it Lucifer was due to come home the same hour his order was to arrive. He could always wait for it himself at the foyer but that would only endanger the secret contents to the first born's interrogation. And so Satan can only watch from his window and wait for it to arrive on its own, until he saw you enter the gate.

He didn't bother thinking it through, a bit too determined on prioritizing the box's secrecy when he texted you to wait for the box without question. The restlessness lacing his tone beyond the D.D.D's screen had you promising that you will get it and the avatar of pride won't get to the contents...whatever it was.

He was just relieved you agreed, then again he did assist in tipping you back then when you faced off Levi so he chalked it up to returning the favor in some sense. His train of thought paused when he saw the Akuzon service hand you the brown box, a silent victory cheer playing mentally but was unironically diminished when he saw a certain ravenette arrive just as the service left.

And so he watched the muffled questioning take place from his place at the window. You did stand your ground even when luci took a sharp step towards you as per his usual intimidation tactic. You even went as far as to step back and stride away with the excuse of "privacy". The demon of wrath briskly pulled you into his room the moment he felt your footsteps near.

"He didn't-" "he didn't yes but you did you- just come in..."

All that pressure you endured, soley because he ordered cat toys for the felines downtown. He was ready to hear your flurry of comments regarding the otherwise childish reason for talking back to the first born (as the avatar of wrath, he to would've felt unjustified if he was in your position as a human) but when he was met with amused laughter he did a double take. And again when you admitted you found his reason cute.

He may have been partially defensive whether his reason was cute or for you laughing at him but, this was one of those rate times a human such as yourself willingly lent him a hand. Not out of fear or intimidation but solely because you promised it to him over the call. And this was enough basis for him on how he sees your character in general...honorable with your word.

For his case, he's likely the most appreciative of how you handle your promises. He among the brothers has the most experience when it came to making vows (in or out the sheets). But words were made to be heard right? That's what he's been telling himself anyways, what felt right in the moment will stay in the moment.

Asmo in turn was admittedly the least consistent with his word but it never had any great impact on him!- hence why he was in a way taken in by how true you are to your flung words. He watches you sometimes running about to fulfill what you vowed to keep and to him it added to your charm! A white knight type of charm to be specific.

Thus he was also giddy to see how you'd go about with him, sure you were diligent but the avatar of lust saw it as a way to attract people. Hence him asking for you to go shopping with him on some devildom Sunday. Nothing major right? Besides you could use the rest-

But curse you for making him worry once you two were already out, he was so immersed with his self love rambling that he barely noticed your drowsy nodding, the nail in the coffin here was when he grabbed your arm and felt the unnaturally high warmth emitting from your skin. This wasn't anything as hot as the demon average but he knew for a fact that you weren't just blushing from his brilliance this was a genuine fever in the making.

He sat you down on a mall bench, biting his lip and debating whether to call one of his brothers for help and risk himself being punished for carelessly bringing their human out in such a state, he was doing the hand on forehead pose while scrolling rapidly through his contacts hoping to call Solomon instead when he soon faced you with a whiney expression.

"Darling I know I'm irresistible but you should've told me you were feeling unwell from the get go!- the stress lines I'm getting from you oh my-" "b-but...we already made plans and you seemed excited so..."

He feels loved with your excuse but this was not the time to ponder about affections when you were on the verge of passing out. A few painfully long minutes passed before the white haired Sorcerer arrived to escort you both at purgatory hall to pass the time.

Seeing you laying on their couch with a thermal blanket after the failed outing made it clear cut to Asmo that you do what you do because you want to. It ironically made him feel more humane...knowing that someone of your type was indiscriminate with your principle even to someone who abused hushed promises for his own leisure. From that point in he'll make an effort to make you feel as appreciated as he is, by keeping up with his own vows towards you (sheet or no sheet-)

Beel admires this aspect of yours, maybe not outright but he was definitely glad to know that despite your situation, you stay true to your own rule. Out of all the seven he's the one who finds it nice in the sense that, you retain your humanity through your words and actions. Something demons like him use in a vastly different way.

This was further proven to him when he remembered your first major promise to him and by extension to his family. Back then when he was looking at your expression it felt like he was back at the Celestial realm, surrounded by determined souls and not vying for the upper hand like the Devildom residents.

Back when you still had to sleep in his shared room, you two talked more regarding the house of lamentation's state. He felt hopeful with your words and he admired your vigor as both a house mate and an ally to your cause.

And when everything happened with jumping from door to door in Barbatos' chamber, he fully relished the extent of your will to finish something you vowed to keep. Most humans in your position would've gave in, at one point he may have even wished you gave up to save yourself the suffering that came with your path to achieve such goals.

After those events he keeps an eye on you, observing you at times when you're subconsciously pushing yourself to keep up that act of honor. As much as he admired it he did still wanted you to not ruin yourself in the process, otherwise who'd come and help assist in satisfying his ungodly cravings?/lh

"Y'know even athletes have to rest and slowly rekindle their body after a good game no matter how good they are." "I see.." "So let's go eat a big feast later, we've been working hard lately right?"

The we was mentioned so that you wouldn't be shadowed by some sort of guilt, if you were anything like him (which he observed to be true to some degree) you didn't like worrying others and he'd rather have you rest on your own accord rather than be tailed by misplaced woes.

From that point onwards he still retained his admiration towards your habit, a miniscule part of him hoped that it would keep you afloat and not further down within your current life.

Belphie is second to Mammon who needs someone like you the most, the avatar of sloth doesn't necessarily have a history of being on the receiving end of broken promises (shhh) but instead lacking promises made to him to begin with.

The very few he did receive had mostly ended in vain, so as such Belphie was not too excited the moment he did pick up your dedication. He may be the "weakest" but that didn't entail his knack for perception. Unfortunately one of the few timed he's had promises fulfilled were one's he specifically made for himself, because from what he thinks the only one who can truly help him is himself.

After the events of the reveal, his view on promises changed albeit not drastically- but he's getting there little by little! It starts with small minor baby steps. He may not need to listen to class (he can somehow still pick up the information regardless) but you still assured him that you'll wake him up once a change of classes will push you all to stand up.

The next step was when he was plagued with an influx of nightmares, at this point in time he tries to sleep it all away as per usual but the quality of sleep remained in dissatisfaction. When you came to bid him goodnight he didn't think his next action through- tugging your sleeve and murmuring for you to stay with him for the night.

It was childish, even he knew it, but with everything he's trying to do there's no harm in attempting this method, the problem of whether you'd agree was solved when you promised to stay by his side for as long as he needs. Silence befalls you two with him clutching your waist as opposed to his usual pillow. He honestly thought of you leaving once he's deep asleep seeing as he did Semi demanded you to stay without consideration for your end.

"M...morning..." "Good morning to" "Y..you're still...?"

His brothers may have learned of your antics through various incidents, but out of all them it's Belphie who learned of it in the most gradual manner. This in turn led him to deeply hold you in higher regard than he'd like to admit. You showed him that maybe just maybe, Lilith's old affection for your kind was truly justified.

He's at ease knowing you didn't abandon him that night, even if you did have every right to do so. Maybe it's also the instance that eased his subconscious terrors during his sleep. What he is sure of however, was that your words weigh more value than the ones he stubbornly fed himself all for the sake of desperate assurance.

[luthiest]

can you do a stationary/drafting tool tour some time? I love your posts! :)

stationary, i can do !

drafting is a little more questionable because, well.. we don’t do a TON of drafting in violin making? the most i’ve done so far is use squares/protractors/compasses to make templates, but once i finish this instrument i can probably do an update of all the templates and drafting tools used to make them!

anyways, here’s my current stationary lineup:

i have a moleskine notebook (black leather), a midori md notebook (cream), and a rhodia notepad (black staplebound pad). they’re all a5 and 5x5 dot grids, which means there are 5 grid squares per inch or 2 grid squares per cm

the moleskine, i use as a formal lab book/diary for violin making. i hate the paper, but i like that the outside is durable and it can take a little throwing around the bench

the midori md is my personal notebook. i don’t like using it around my bench just because of how quickly it starts to look worn on the outside even with the plastic cover, but the paper is great and it’s lovely for journaling/drawing/keeping an agenda

the rhodia dot pad, i use for taking rough notes. the paper quality is great, so i don’t have to be as careful about smearing when i’m jotting stuff down quickly in pen, and it’s perforated at the top. i dont love how bright white the paper is—the moleskine and midori are both a creamy off-white color—but everything else about it serves my purposes to a tee

i have an a5 6 ring binder that i fill with that same 5x5 size dot grid loose leaf sheets, which is where i like to keep my notes on tool making/maintenance, since i’ll probably update them over time as i learn what works for me. the binder is from a 3 pack on amazon, same with the loose leaf paper, but i think muji has the same stuff.

the lovely white, almost lavender post it notes are my all time favorite color for stickies !!!! i bought an 8 pack in high school and have not been able to find them since. it’s pretty tragic. the brown ones are from muji though, and i like the size even if they aren’t super sticky.

the eraser i use is a milan 430 (??) it’s green and i like green and it erases, so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

the ruler is a starrett c635 tempered steel w the cm/mm on one side and cm/0.5mm on the other. i didn’t pick this one out, but my teacher did and i’ve gotta agree w him, the weight and size of it really helps get accurate lines and distances.

the writing utensils from left to right are:

dixon ticonderoga pencil hb no. 2

staedler pencil 4b

uni kura toga mechanical pencil 0.5mm (the lead rotates as you write, so you get a really nice, consistent nib that breaks less !!)

muji white pen body with black 0.38mm ink refill

muji pen dark blue 0.38mm

sakura pigma brush tip archival ink pen

staedler triplus fineliner from the neon set (yes, i have tried the stabilo fineliners, no i do not like them. the tips are like.. cylindrical? so if you write at an angle, like most people, you’ll get inconsistent lines as you change direction. they’re cute to look at but not great to write with)

mildliner light grey highlighter

that about covers it? i do have a pilot .38mm pen [edit: pentel energel 0.3mm needle tip] that doesn’t smear as much as the muji pens, [but i don't like how the shape of the pen affects my handwriting] which i’ll add an edit for when i get home since i don’t carry them w me.. but yeah ! thanks for asking me, i love talking about stationary lolol

[sharkcougarhawksnakescorpion]

Rhodia and Clairefontaine papers spring to mind. They can be pricy. I love the Rhodia paper I have, but I mostly use it as a tester or as a comparison guide for less expensive paper. There are a bunch of great and affordable asian brands out there. It’s honestly easier to find pre-bound notebooks with nice paper.

I use an A5 six ring binder, so I buy loose, pre-punched paper. It can be a little trickier to track down. I mostly look for paper with a smooth grain (it looks prettier with my flex nibs) and heavy weight. 60 - 90 gsm is what I found suggested for fountain pens when I did my initial research. The paper I buy is 80 gsm. The shadowing is minimal and I can get it in a creamy color with a dot grid that I find easy on my eyes. There’s lots of lined stuff out there, though. And when I’m done with a notebook, or want to refresh and take out a section, I just slap it in a folder and label it.

So anyway, I like to take notes on paper while I'm editing because it helps with the eyestrain I get from screens, and it makes my ADHD brain pay attention to them more often. Well, I just went to flip over the page and found I'd reached the end of the notebook I was using.

Okay, no problem. I'll just grab one from my stationary hoard. Except... I don't have any left. There is an empty space where a pile of notebooks used to be.

Guys, I did it! I used all the notebooks in my house.

I actually get to buy new notebooks because I need them!

[hindisoup]

Stationery Vocabulary

लेखन सामग्री - stationery, writing supplies (feminine) स्टेशनरी की दुकान - stationery shop (feminine) किताब की दुकान - book shop (feminine) लिखावट - handwriting (feminine) सुलेख - calligraphy (masculine) सामग्री, आपूर्ति - supplies (feminine) स्कूल का सामान - school supplies (masculine) लेखन उपकरण - writing instrument (masculine) अंकनी, पेंसिल - pencil (feminine) यांत्रिक पेंसिल - mechanical pencil (feminine) रबर, रबड़ - eraser, rubber (masculine) पेंसिल शापनर - sharpener (masculine) कलम, लेखनी - pen, quill (feminine) डुबकी कलम - quill, dip pen (feminine) स्याही, रोशनाई, मसि - ink (feminine) दवात, मसिपात्र - inkwell (masculine) बॉलपेन - ballpoint pen (masculine) सादा कागज़, दस्तावेज़ - blank paper, document (masculine) * लाइन वाला पेपर - ruled paper (masculine) * ग्राफ पेपर - graph paper (masculine) स्थायी / अमिट मार्कर - permanent marker (masculine) * ठीक बिंदु - fine point, फाइन टिप / निब - fine tip / nib हाइलाइट करने वाला पेन - highlighter (masculine) पत्र कागज - letter writing paper (masculine) लिफ़ाफ़ा - envelope (masculine) डाक टिकट - postage stamp (feminine or masculine) पोस्टकार्ड - postcard (masculine) शीर्षक कागज - letterhead paper (masculine) किताब, पुस्तक - book (feminine) * जेबी पुस्तक, किताबचा, पुस्तिका, पोथी - paperback, booklet, small book (feminine) * सजिल्द - hardcover, bound (adjective) स्मरण पुस्तक, कापी - notepad, notebook (feminine) डायरी - diary, journal (feminine) तिथिपत्री - calendar (feminine) व्यक्तिगत योजनाकार - personal planner (masculine) रूलर - ruler (masculine) परकार - compass (circle drawing tool) (masculine) क़लमदान - pencil case (masculine) * a pencil case can be कपड़े से बना (made of cloth, fabric), प्लास्टिक (plastic) or धातु (metal).

Office Supplies

कार्यालय की आपूर्ति - office supplies (feminine) मुद्रक, पिंटर - printer (masculine) टोनर कारतूस - toner cartridge (masculine) टंकणयंत्र - typewriter (masculine) होल छिद्रक, छेद पंच - hole punch (masculine) स्टेपलर - stapler (masculine) स्टेपल करना - to staple (transitive) कॉपी मशीन - photocopier (masculine) प्रतिलिपि बनाना - to make a copy, to copy (transitive) कॉपी की दुकान - copy shop (feminine) मिसिल, फ़ाइल - file (feminine) जिल्दसाज़ - binder (masculine) चिपचिपा नोट - sticky note, post-it note (masculine) सुधार टेप - correction tape (masculine) सुधार द्रव - correction fluid (masculine)

Arts and Crafts

कला और शिल्प - arts and crafts (masculine) ��ला की आपूर्ति - art supplies (feminine) कूँची, तूलिका - brush (feminine), also बुरुश, ब्रश (masculine) जलीय रंग - water colour (masculine) रंग पेंसिल - colour pencils (feminine) चित्रांकनी - crayon (feminine) मुहर, मोहर - stamp (feminine) रोशनाई का गद्दा - inkpad (masculine) चमक - glitter (feminine) कैंची - scissors (feminine) सरेस - glue (masculine) * सरेस से चिपकाना - to glue, to attach with glue (transitive) चिपकने वाला टेप - adhesive tape (masculine) पारदर्शी टेप - transparent tape, scotch tape (masculine) आलपीन, कील - pin, tack (feminine) लपेटने का कागज़ - wrapping paper (masculine) शुभकामना कार्ड - greeting card (masculine) निमंत्रण-पात्र - invitation card (masculine)

[angelcloves]

alright yall. its whats in my bag time

this is my doughnut macaroon standard size in the color sakura. sometimes i wish i got it in an xl

because it is packed for the apocalypse.

left to right bottom to top we have

my journal

sunstar mitte bag in bag in a5*

nomadic pe-09 pen case**

laptop charger

surface book 2 laptop

multi tool

power bank 1

power bank 2

bic lighter

chapstick

phone charger

gauze pads

alcohol wipes

bandaids

tylenol

more bandaids

more gauze pads

contact case full of midol

benadryl cream

neosporin

tampons

mask 1

address book

sticky notes

gum

graphing calculator

scientific calculator

hair ties

more gauze again

waterproof bandaids

more bandaids again

box cutter

box cutter sheath

mask 2

keychain

wallet

* this is what i keep in my mitte

black gel pen

marker that i use with my bujo

list of things i wanna write

general brain dump notepad

gum

sticky notes

bullet journal

scissors

lens cleaning wipes

bic lighter

salonpas patches

** this is what i keep in my nomadic

kokuyo campus correction tape

tombow glue runner

binder clips

paper clips

windows pen

fluorescent set of zebra mildliners

sakura arch foam eraser

pilot mechanical pencil eraser refills

sticky notes

0.5 hb lead

0.3 2h pilot neox lead

sticky notes

lens cleaning wipes

black copic multiliner

black sharpie

black gel pen

black tombow fudenosuke hard nib

red gel pen

white gelly roll 08

0.5 kuromi printed uni kuru toga mechanical pencil

0.3 pilot fure fure me shaker mechanical pencil

sunstar stickyle box cutter + scissors

kaweco skyline sport in color lilac inked with noodlers black ink (not pictured)

[axemetaphor]

no problem, and I hope you have fun with it !!

to answer your other questions:

I paint directly onto the hoodie! which is a cotton/polyester blend, from a brand called MakeMarket. I stretch the fabric over something large and flat first (for this big of a project, I borrowed a wood plank from my mother as well as 4 clamps. I covered the wood with a trash bag to keep the paint that leaks through the fabric from adhering to it, then stretched it over the wood, using the 4 clamps to secure each corner. for smaller projects I use a pane of glass from a broken picture frame & some binder clips lol) before just painting right on it. just wash the fabric first so itll stick well. disclaimer: I am not a professional to any degree and there is probably a better way to do this/something you should do to the fabric first, but I don't know it ":D I've been mostly just making things for myself and if it ends up not lasting, I'll just repaint/touch it up.

my usual process is to tape off the section I'm painting, apply a white base coat, sketch the design, then jump right into painting it, erasing the pencil when everything is dried (or painting over it, when it's stubborn).

and here's all of my "equipment," such as it were:

from left to right, heres what they are and their uses

2inch flat brush- I dont remember where I got it, but I use it for a base cover of white. it's great for wide base coverage and little else.

a Shader brush I was given by my dad. I have no idea the brand, but it's what I use for large blocks of just 1 colour.

of the green set of 4, the first one is a simple round brush. this one I dont use often tbh.

the second green one is a flat edger, I think? I lost the package of these. the tip is angled, though. great for straight lines and tapering said straight lines!

the third green one is a tiny little detail round. even that honestly is not quite thin enough sometimes.

the last green one is a simple flat. I use this for blocking in colours in smaller areas before using the 2nd or 3rd brush to do detail work

the little bitty black brush is kind of shitty but it's another round one. the ends are frayed to hell and I'm probably gonna pitch it ngl but it can be used to block in colour.

the 2 palette knives can be used to make straight lines

I use the calligraphy nib for REALLY SMALL straight lines. it is not good for much else in a painting project! it's been clogged and garbagey for a while (idfk how but the ink that got into it is Soap Resistant and it's just crusted over. I have a shitton more from my dad who hoards things just a bit, so I'm not bothered.) so it's perfect for this since it can't be a dip-pen nib anymore

then theres the 3 pencils I sketch with (beginning with the coloured one, then the HB next to it, then the 6B next to that). the charcoal beside them is used when I'm like "hang on what did I draw again"-- like, I mark unclear lines heavier using the charcoal.

also I'm plugging this brush cleaner, "The Masters Brush Cleaner," because it FUCKS. it is so good. this itty bitty one has lasted me months so far I have barely had to use it because a little goes a long way. not sponsored best impulse buy I ever made

then theres just my palette and the thing I use for water

I will say none of this stuff is wash-proof, do not slap it in the washing machine like this, itll crumble into bits. (found that out the hard way, RIP to the one Motionless in White patch I made for those crust pants) I usually use a spray fabric cleaner for my patch jacket (covered in acrylic paint patches) which wont fuck up the paint. however I did just get back from an art store where they recommended me This:

which will make the paint wash-proof and heat-proof. haven't used it yet since I bought it Today shsjsnsj but a 1:1 ratio of GAC900:paint should apparently do this if you then hit the back of the fabric (not the paint side) with a hot iron after it's been dried (put parchment paper between the paint and whatever surface you use to iron, though!). do be careful using it, apparently it's not good to get a bunch on your skin.

that's pretty much all I know !! I'm still looking into how to make these heatproof and mailable because as my friend @ghost-orion who I mailed a patch to knows, Apparently It Will Get Goopy In Transport. I've had people on TikTok reach out to ask if they can buy patches of my designing though so uhhhhh I am Working On Figuring Things Out and I might start posting about it on here as I do so! presumably whatever makes it capable of withstanding shipping will make it long-lasting in general.

I hope this isnt too much hwjsnsj I just want to give All of the information I have ':D I only started doing this earlier this year, I don't have much experience yet.

I dont think I've posted any of these here ever before but I do sometimes make tiktok videos of me working on shit. usually my fabric crafts like my jackets

[whatiscalligraphy]

Calligraphy Ink Types: Selecting The Best

Imagine the graceful dance of a pen as it glides across the paper, each letter an expression of art and precision. That's the beauty of calligraphy and choosing the right ink is pivotal in crafting those perfect strokes. Your journey into the world of calligraphy inks will be as enlightening as it is colorful, covering everything from the viscosity and pigmentation to the drying time and permanence. Discover the secrets to selecting the best calligraphy ink that will make your script come alive and elevate your work from mere writing to an exquisite form of art.

Understanding Calligraphy Inks

Calligraphy inks are more than just simple fluids; they are the vibrant lifeblood of the lettering arts. As you delve into calligraphy, understanding the various inks you can use will enhance your craft, enabling you to create beautiful, lasting work. The right ink can make your calligraphy flourish, while the wrong one can lead to frustration. So, grasp the essentials of ink composition and properties, and you'll be well on your way to calligraphy success. Composition of Calligraphy Inks At its core, calligraphy ink is composed of colorants (pigments or dyes), a binder that helps the colorant adhere to the paper, and a solvent that gives the ink its liquid form. Some inks also contain additives to enhance properties such as flow, drying time, and sheen. Knowing the ingredients can help you predict how an ink will behave on different papers and under various environmental conditions. Properties Affecting Ink Performance Several key properties of inks impact their performance. You'll want to consider the ink's opacity, lightfastness, viscosity, and drying time. These properties will dictate whether your calligraphy appears crisp and clear, whether it fades over time, and how easy it is to work with the ink. Your experience will inform which properties matter most for your specific project. Ink Consistency: Viscosity and Flow The consistency of ink, determined largely by its viscosity, affects its flow from your pen or brush. You want an ink that flows smoothly without dripping or bleeding. If it's too thick, it might not flow well; if it's too thin, it could feather or bleed on the paper. Achieving the perfect viscosity means your lettering will be more controlled and consistent. Drying Time and Its Effects Drying time plays a significant role in your calligraphy. Too quick, and your ink may not flow properly; too slow, and you risk smudging and smearing. Sometimes, longer drying times are advantageous for specific techniques or effects, but generally, you'll want an ink that dries within a reasonable period. Lightfastness and Ink Longevity Lightfastness refers to an ink's resistance to fading when exposed to light. Inks with high lightfastness are essential for work meant to last, such as archival documents or artwork for display. Consider the longevity of your project when choosing inks, as it will be disappointing to see your beautiful calligraphy fade over time.

Water-Based Inks

Characteristics of Water-Based Inks Water-based inks are popular among calligraphers due to their ease of use and clean-up. These inks are typically made with water as the main solvent, which makes them more environmentally friendly and less toxic than other types. They also have a gentler odor, which is pleasant for those spending hours practicing their craft. Benefits of Using Water-Based Inks The advantages of using water-based inks are numerous. They tend to be less messy and easier to clean up, as water is an effective solvent for these inks even after they dry. You'll find these inks to be quite versatile, working well with different nibs and brushes on a variety of paper types. Limitations and Considerations However, water-based inks do have their limitations. They can be less vibrant and might fade faster than other inks. They also can be more susceptible to water damage once dry. Understanding these limitations will help you choose the right ink for projects where permanence and vibrancy are crucial.

Oil-Based Inks

Composition and Attributes of Oil-Based Inks Unlike water-based inks, oil-based inks use oil as the solvent and have different characteristics. They tend to be more intense and offer a slicker feel. Oil as a solvent provides a high degree of water resistance to the dried ink, which is beneficial for certain projects. Advantages of Oil-Based Inks for Calligraphy Oil-based inks are known for their strong pigmentation and durability. They are less likely to fade over time, making them suitable for pieces that are displayed or handled often. Their permanence once dry makes them resistant to smudging, which is excellent for calligraphers who want to ensure their work lasts. Challenges Associated with Oil-Based Inks The challenges of oil-based inks include longer drying times and a more complex cleanup process, as you'll need solvents other than water. They can also be less forgiving to beginners, as mistakes are harder to correct. These inks may have a more noticeable odor, which might be a consideration for your comfort while working.

Alcohol-Based Inks

Defining Alcohol-Based Inks Alcohol-based inks have alcohol as their primary solvent, which influences their drying time and behavior significantly. These inks typically dry quickly and offer vibrant, translucent colors that are difficult to achieve with other types of inks. Suitability and Usage in Modern Calligraphy For modern calligraphy, alcohol-based inks are suitable for projects on non-porous surfaces, such as plastics and metals, where other inks might not adhere well. They are also favored for creating gradients and blending colors seamlessly, lending themselves to artistic and expressive calligraphy styles. Precautions and Handling of Alcohol-Based Inks Working with alcohol-based inks necessitates certain precautions. They can be flammable and sometimes give off strong fumes. Ensuring good ventilation and being aware of the ink's properties will help you use them safely.

Pigment vs. Dye Inks

Differentiating Between Pigment and Dye Inks Pigment inks are composed of fine, solid particles suspended in a liquid, whereas dye inks are made of colorants completely dissolved in the solvent. This fundamental difference affects how they interact with paper and light. Pros and Cons of Pigment-Based Inks Pigment-based inks are renowned for their opacity and lightfastness. They sit on top of the paper, which is advantageous for working on dark or heavy textured paper. However, the pigment particles can clog pen nibs and require more frequent cleaning. Pros and Cons of Dye-Based Inks Dye-based inks offer a wide range of vivid colors and are generally more fluid, so they provide smooth flow in your calligraphy pen. However, they are prone to fading and are less water-resistant than pigment inks. Your choice will depend on the demands of your project and your preference for vibrancy over permanence.

Acrylic Inks

Understanding Acrylic Inks for Calligraphy Acrylic inks combine the durability of acrylic paints with the fluidity of traditional inks. They are made with pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion, which becomes water-resistant when dry. Working with Acrylic Inks In calligraphy, acrylic inks provide a balance between opacity and flow. They're typically vibrant and have excellent lightfastness. However, because they dry quickly and are waterproof, you'll need to work efficiently and clean your tools promptly to avoid clogging. Techniques for Blending and Layering Acrylic Inks Acrylic inks lend themselves well to blending and layering, enabling you to create unique and dynamic effects in your calligraphy. Their quick-drying nature allows you to build layers without muddying colors, offering a world of creative possibilities.

Gouache and Watercolors

Gouache as a Calligraphy Ink Though not a traditional ink, gouache can be used for calligraphy by diluting it to the right consistency. It's an opaque watercolor that gives a matte finish, making it ideal for projects where you need solid coverage. Using Watercolors in Calligraphy Watercolors, being transparent, offer a more delicate and ethereal quality to your lettering. They can be used for beautiful washes of color and subtle gradients, adding depth to your work. Mixing Custom Colors with Gouache and Watercolors Both gouache and watercolors allow you to mix custom colors, giving you full control over the palette of your project. Experimentation is key to achieving the perfect hue and consistency for your calligraphic endeavors.

Specialty Inks

Metallic and Iridescent Inks Metallic and iridescent inks contain reflective particles that give a shimmering effect, perfect for adding a touch of elegance or drama to your work. They can be a bit trickier to use due to their particle size but offer an undeniable visual impact. Glow-in-the-Dark and UV-Reactive Inks For projects that demand attention even in low-light conditions, glow-in-the-dark and UV-reactive inks are fascinating choices. They create surprising and engaging effects, ideal for invitations, posters, or artwork that stands out. Innovative Ink Types for Unique Effects The calligraphy ink market is continuously evolving, with innovative formulas that yield unique effects, such as color-changing or temperature-reactive inks. Exploring these options can unleash new creative directions in your calligraphy practice.

Choosing Inks for Different Calligraphy Styles

Best Inks for Blackletter and Gothic Scripts For the dense strokes of Blackletter and Gothic scripts, you’ll want inks that are highly opaque, such as pigmented inks or even gouache. They'll ensure your strokes stand out sharply against the paper. Inks Recommended for Copperplate and Spencerian The delicate lines of Copperplate and Spencerian scripts demand inks with excellent flow and a bit of sheen, such as water-based or dye-based inks. Their fluidity will complement the elegance of these scripts. Selecting Inks for Brush Calligraphy and Modern Scripts Brush calligraphy and modern scripts can be quite versatile, so you have a range of options. Acrylic inks work well for bold and vibrant lettering, while watercolors are excellent for softer, more nuanced styles.

Expert Tips for Selecting the Best Calligraphy Inks

Assessing Project Requirements and Ink Properties Before selecting an ink, consider the requirements of your project. Think about the paper you’ll be using, the longevity you need, and the visual effect you're aiming for. Understanding the properties of different inks will guide you to the best choice for your work. Brand Comparisons and Reviews Don't hesitate to compare brands and read reviews from other calligraphers. Their experiences can offer insights into the performance of certain inks you may be considering. Personal Preferences and Trial Samples Ultimately, the best calligraphy ink for you comes down to personal preference. What works perfectly for one calligrapher might not suit another. Experimenting with trial samples is a wonderful way to find your favorite. Enjoy the process of discovery, and let your creativity flow! Read the full article

[sharpayyevans]

closed starter for @noahnibs​

Sharpay had grown to like the boy who she employed a summer ago to play the guitar at cocktail hour and caddy during the day. Now that it was Christmastime, she needed her trusty Nibs to accompany her and Ryan for caroling. “You know, on Broadway, on time means you’re late,” she reminded Nibs as he strolled into the country club rehearsal room at noon sharp. “But whatever. All that matters is that I was early, and I wouldn’t have been fired. Are you ready to make some country club Christmas magic?” Sharpay asked with a grin, handing him the binder of sheet music.