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McCaffery’s ink is an iron gall ink specially designed for use with pointed pens. Developed by Neil McCaffery in the early 2000s, this ink is handmade with natural materials and designed to emulate deep rich shades associated with the American Golden Age of Ornamental Penmanship. No other ink is capable of creating paper-thin hairlines like McCaffery’s.

Neil McCaffery makes, bottles, and labels every jar of ink himself. Before his inks came onto the market, there were none like it available in the United States. Thanks to Neil, calligraphers interested in traditional Copperplate and Spencerian hands are able to create delicate, beautiful work.

Calligraphy by @osageink

Because of its all-natural formula, those new to McCaffery’s ink may not be used to its behavior. It is not uncommon to find mold on the surface of the ink, or a dried skin. These developments are natural and do not mean your ink has gone bad. Simply remove the mold or skin, throw it away, and stir the ink well. You are now ready to keep writing!

A brand new bottle of black McCaffery’s ink has an antique gray or brown color rather than deep black. However, this color will darken over time on paper. Your McCaffery’s will also mature in the bottle over the course of a couple months. To maintain consistency and quality, add a teaspoon of water to the jar every month or so, depending on how often you use the ink.

Calligraphy by @yannes.ho

McCaffery's is available in a variety of colors besides black. Indigo is a favorite shade of Ann Cobb, friend of the store, Spencerian calligrapher and member of the Nashville Calligrapher’s Guild. McCaffery’s Red Violet is well-loved by Master Penman Connie Chen. McCaffery’s makes an excellent white ink as well a creamy, subtle ivory. Brown, red, green, and glossy black are also available.

Calligraphy by Ann Cobb

For a denser, quick-drying ink, try McCaffery’s carbon-based Prairie Night Black. Although it doesn’t produce hairlines as fine as iron gall does, this ink is high-quality and suitable for reproduction work, unlike other McCaffery inks.

McCaffery’s is designed only for use with pointed pens. Do not use this ink in fountain pens or with broad-edge nibs. Iron gall inks such as McCaffery’s are highly acidic and can eat away at nibs. When using this ink, clean your nib thoroughly and often to avoid corrosion.

Calligraphy by Lynn Wen from @schaetze_

One ounce bottles of McCaffery’s Ink can be found here.

McCaffery’s carbon-based Prairie Night Black can be found here.