Why water is not the right dilution medium for Document inks
De Atramentis Document inks are waterproof once dry because of a specific chemical system in the ink formulation — the pigment and binder react and fix to the paper surface as the ink dries. Diluting these inks with water disrupts this system: the water lowers the concentration of the active components, potentially reducing the waterproof performance of the diluted ink in a way that is not proportional to the dilution. For applications where a lighter tone of Document Black or Document Sepia is needed — wash-style botanical illustration using diluted sepia, creating a tonal range of greys from Document Black for graduated shadow work — De Atramentis Dilution Liquid provides a compatible carrier fluid that thins the ink without disrupting the waterproof chemistry. The diluted ink should still be tested on the specific paper before relying on its waterproof performance, as all dilution affects waterproof behaviour to some degree.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUSTIONS (FAQ)
Can I use this with inks from other makers?
No — the Dilution Liquid is formulated specifically for De Atramentis inks and their particular waterproof chemistry. Using it with inks from other makers will produce unpredictable results and is not supported. For diluting non-De Atramentis inks, use water.
Will diluted Document ink still be waterproof?
When diluted with Dilution Liquid (rather than water), the waterproof chemistry is maintained better than with water dilution, but any dilution affects the waterproof performance to some degree. Test the diluted ink on your specific paper at the intended dilution ratio before using it on finished work where waterproof performance is critical.
How much should I add?
Start with a very small amount — a few drops — and test on scrap paper at the intended dilution. The correct amount depends on how much you want to reduce the colour saturation and viscosity, and on the specific application. Add incrementally rather than over-diluting and trying to add more ink to correct.