Ink Sample Swap!

Sending Ink Samples

Trying out new inks is one of the joys of working with a fountain pen! So far this swap, we'll send two small ink samples to our partner, along with a little letter explaining why you've chosen to send that particular ink.

This swap is inspired by samples I've received before. I've gotten a few in a subscription box called "Saturated in Ink". (I don't think it's around anymore, but if you know of any other good subscriptions for pens & ink, please share!) I also love the small "chargers" from Ferris Wheel Press. When a coworker shared with me a vial of special ink she scored from Reddit, I asked where she got the little vial she used, she explained how cheap the vials are in bulk, and here we are after I bought a boatload of them!

How do we mail a sample?

Step #1 - I mail everyone who signs up 2-4 empty starter vials. (This is a small group, so I'm comfortable mailing these starter vials out. I'm just that eager to share samples! I'd love to see more samples swapped, maybe even more than this one swap.) There is a longer deadline to allow us plenty of time to prepare for this. You can wait for my vials, or not.

Step #2 - You send your partner two vials of ink. The sample size should be around 5ml. You don't have to use the vials I send if you want to get a bunch yourself. Or maybe you want to send a whole bottle you hate - ultimately, the packaging is your choice. You might have to find a way to label or identify the two ink vials if they look alike.

About the ink you send...

• Please double check that the ink you're sending is safe for a fountain pen. Some inks are only suitable for dip pens or calligraphy brushes, so read the packaging carefully. Make sure the ink is still good & not dried out past its prime. You don't want to send something that might ruin a million dollar Mont Blanc or an heirloom Esterbrook! 😲
• It might help to read your partner's profile to get a sense of their style and what colors they like, but in the end it's the sender's choice.
• If you've got a strong preference for something (as in, "No glittery inks please because I prefer fine nibs" or or "I'm looking for a good waterproof ink if you've got one to share") you may want to put that in the comment box below for your future partner. They're not beholden to bend over backwards to grant your wish, but it doesn't hurt to ask!

And about the letter -

The letter itself is sender's choice, but a handwritten personalized message is expected. Please don't forget to include the brand and colors of ink you're sending - and don't forget to include the swap name too! You might want to share why you chose the inks you did, what you like/dislike about inks, or something of a related nature. An ink swatch might make for a nice extra, if you're so inclined!

The Swap Specs

• Send two ink samples and one written note to one partner.
• Partners should be assigned around January 22. Send your swap out by March 6th.
• You are mailing a package. Plan accordingly for postage. A small padded envelope should work.
• All group rules apply. Expect your profile to be checked prior to assigning. Late swaps on your dashboard and unexplained 1s & 3s will raise eyebrows.
• As a host, I will angel if necessary, but please don't flake!