Why J. Herbin Is a Cult Favourite Among Pen Enthusiasts
J. Herbin (Jacques Herbin) has been crafting inks in France since 1670 — making it one of the oldest ink manufacturers in the world. Their inks are beloved for their rich, saturated colours, smooth flow, and the sheer breadth of their range: from everyday fountain pen inks to shimmering pigment inks and traditional calligraphy formulas.
At CzipLee, we stock a curated selection of J. Herbin inks across all their key lines. Here's how to navigate them.
1. Authentic Fountain Pen Inks — The Everyday Classic
J. Herbin's Authentic Ink (30ml) is their flagship fountain pen ink line. Available in a wide spectrum of colours, these water-based inks are safe for all fountain pens, free-flowing, and quick-drying enough for most papers. They're a great starting point if you're new to fountain pen inks.
Best for: Daily journaling, letter writing, everyday note-taking.
2. Calligraphy Inks — Bold, Expressive Lines
J. Herbin's calligraphy inks are formulated with a slightly higher viscosity for use with dip nibs, brush pens, and calligraphy pens. They produce beautifully saturated, opaque lines that stand out on the page. Available in 15ml and 50ml bottles across a range of colours including Black, Blue, Red, Green, and Purple.
Best for: Hand lettering, envelope addressing, art journaling, wedding stationery.
3. Pigment Inks — Archival, Waterproof, and Shimmering
J. Herbin's pigment inks are water-resistant once dry and won't fade over time — making them ideal for archival projects, mixed media, and artwork. Their metallic pigment range (Gold, Silver, White) is particularly striking on dark or kraft paper.
Best for: Art journaling, mixed media, dark paper writing, archival documents.
4. India Inks — Maximum Opacity
For the deepest, most opaque results, J. Herbin's India Inks are carbon-based and fully waterproof once dry. The go-to for technical drawing, illustration, and any application where permanence is non-negotiable. Available in Blue and Brown.
Note: India inks should only be used in dip pens or technical pens — not in fountain pens, as they can clog the feed.
5. Accessories — The Ink Pot
J. Herbin also makes one of the most charming ink accessories around: the Round China Ink Pot. This ceramic inkwell is perfect for dip pen use and looks beautiful on any desk. A lovely gift for the calligrapher or pen enthusiast in your life.
6. Scented Ink — A Unique Sensory Experience
The J. Herbin Scented Ink Spray — Noir Inspiration adds a subtle fragrance to your writing. A conversation piece and a genuinely lovely touch for personal correspondence.
Quick Guide: Which J. Herbin Ink Is Right for You?
| Use Case | Recommended Line |
|---|---|
| Everyday fountain pen writing | Authentic Ink 30ml |
| Calligraphy & hand lettering | Calligraphy Ink (15ml or 50ml) |
| Dark paper / metallic effects | Pigment Ink (Gold, Silver, White) |
| Illustration & technical drawing | India Ink |
| Archival / waterproof writing | Pigmented Calligraphy Ink |
| Gifting | Authentic Ink + Round China Ink Pot |
Shop J. Herbin at CzipLee
Browse our full J. Herbin range online or visit us in-store at Bangsar Village II. Also worth reading: our Fountain Pen Ink 101 guide if you want to understand the difference between dye, pigment, and India inks, and our Noodler's Ink Colour Guide for another great ink brand we carry.