Ink

Fluid used for writing, printing or drawing, or painting. Ink was traditionally made with ground lamp black or some other colouring matter and a solution of glue or gum, then moulded into dry sticks or blocks to be mixed with water. Two basic types of ink are available. Waterproof inks dry to a glossy film which can be overlaid with another medium. Non-waterproof inks give an effect of diluted watercolour, drying to a matt finish.