Kuretake Bokuju Sumi Ink

60ml

£6.99

Kuretake Bokuju Sumi Ink

Kuretake Bokuju is a traditional Japanese carbon black sumi ink made in Nara, Japan. Dense, matte, and intensely black once dry, it is the traditional ink for calligraphy, ink painting, and dip pen illustration. It is not suitable for fountain pens.

Carbon black — traditional sumi formulation

60ml and 180ml bottles

Moderate once fully dry

Matte black once dry

NOT suitable for fountain pens — carbon particles will clog feeds

Nara, Japan — Kuretake

£6.99

Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Packaging:

We know art supplies are fragile. All professional pair and boards are shipped in reinforced rigid flat mailers. No tubes, no folds, no crushed corners.

Order Processing Times:

Orders are processed within 1–2 business days - we always aim to dispatch all “in-Stock’ items within 24 hours..

Note: Orders placed after 2 PM GMT on Fridays will be processed the following Monday.

Domestic Shipping (UK):

Standard (2–4 days): £3.50 (Free for The Illustrator & Studio Master tiers).

Priority (1–2 days): £4.50 (Free for Studio Master tier)

International Shipping:

We ship globally. Costs are calculated at checkout based on weight and destination. Please note that customers are responsible for any local customs duties or taxes.

Order Tracking:

You will receive a tracking link via email the moment your tools leave our studio.

30-Day Change of Mind:

We offer a 30-day return window (exceeding the UK legal minimum of 14 days). Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in "as-new" condition.

Faulty Goods:

In the rare event of a defect, you are entitled to a full refund or replacement within 30 days. We will cover all return shipping costs for faulty items.

Defective Nibs:

Occasionally, a pen may arrive dry or a nib maybe scratchy. Contact us within 7 days of purchase with a photo/video of the issue and we will send a replacement immediately.

Exclusions:

Due to the nature of the product, unless faulty we cannot accept returns on opened markers or used paper pads returned.

Digital Goods:

The "Birthday Palette" and other digital downloads are non-refundable once accessed.

How to Start a Return:

Email studio@inkwellartsupplies.com with your order number. We aim to process all refunds to the original payment method within 5–10 business days of receiving the item

"Gravity Happens. We’ve Got You Covered."

We know the heartbreak of a fountain pen hitting the floor. As a member of our Creative Rewards, you don't have to worry about the 'tines.' If the worst happens, just send us a photo and we'll send you a 50% discount for a fresh start.

"The Nib Safety Net" – Terms & Conditions

Eligibility: This benefit is exclusive to active members of the Creative Rewards program at the time of the accident.
Coverage: The 50% discount applies strictly to accidental damage (e.g., dropping the pen) that renders the nib unusable. It does not cover intentional damage, loss of the pen, theft, or normal wear and tear.
The Claim: To activate your discount, you must provide a clear photo of the damaged nib and your original order number to oops@yourstore.com.
Limitations: This discount is valid for a one-time replacement per pen purchased and applies only to the cost of the replacement nib unit. It cannot be combined with other promotional codes or used for full pen replacements.
Availability: We will provide the discount for the exact nib model where stock is available. If the model is discontinued, we will offer a 50% discount on a comparable alternative nib unit.

Traditional sumi ink from Nara
Sumi ink has been made in Nara, Japan for over a millennium — the city is historically the centre of Japanese ink and brush production. Kuretake Bokuju is a modern carbon black sumi ink in the same tradition: dense, matte, and immediate. It is the correct ink for East Asian calligraphy practice, sumi-e ink painting, and traditional dip pen illustration requiring a flat matte black. Available in two sizes.

Honest Note:

NOT FOR FOUNTAIN PENS — carbon particles will irreversibly clog fountain pen feeds. Use only in dip pens, brush pens, and traditional calligraphy tools. Clean nibs and brushes thoroughly after every session — dried sumi is difficult to remove. The ink may thicken over time in the bottle — thin with a small amount of water if necessary.

Who is it For?

Calligraphers practising East Asian or brush calligraphy techniques
Illustrators who want a traditional matte black for dip pen work
Anyone learning sumi-e ink painting
Manga artists wanting a traditional sumi black for analogue production

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUSTIONS (FAQ)

Why can't I use sumi ink in a fountain pen?

Carbon black sumi inks contain carbon particles that are too large to pass through fountain pen feeds without clogging — and once clogged, a feed may be permanently damaged. Use only in dip pens, brush pens, and traditional calligraphy tools.

Which size should I buy?

The 60ml is the right starting size for most use cases. The 180ml is a studio or high-volume option for regular calligraphy practice or shared studio use.

Is Bokuju different from the sumi sticks you grind yourself?

Yes — Bokuju is a ready-mixed liquid ink, more consistent and convenient than grinding an ink stick. For learning and regular practice, liquid sumi is practical. For ceremonial or traditional practice, stick ink ground on an inkstone is the historical approach.

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Kuretake Bokuju Sumi Ink

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