Diamine

Diamine have been making ink since 1864 and are one of the last remaining manufacturers in the UK. In 1925 the company created a state-of-the-art production facility in Liverpool, and despite several changes of ownership, they have remained in the same area ever since. Throughout, the Diamine trade mark and the traditional production methods have survived and now in the 21st century their fountain pen ink remains the first choice of many pen connoisseurs.

Diamine ink is a water-based ink perfect for any brand of fountain pen. It is completely non-toxic and offers probably the widest range of quality fountain pen ink colours in the world - in both traditional and contemporary shades.

By adding a secret ingredient to de-stress the surface, Diamine achieves vibrant colour with free flow that glides on the paper surface, and which will not clog your pen.

When we decided it was time for a deep, dark blue ink, to match our logo, Diamine created it for us. The success of that shade meant it became the start of the Deep Dark range - each one created by Diamine, working with us. Along with this huge range of fountain pen ink, Diamine also make much-loved calligraphy inks, and the classic iron gall Registrar's Ink used by registrars and the clergy for official documents all over the UK.

Diamine Classic Inks

Cult Pens Diamine

Diamine Shimmer Inks

Diamine Sets

Diamine Inkvent

Diamine Document Ink

Diamine Cartridges

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Diamine FAQ

What’s the history of Diamine?

Diamine was originally known as T Webster and Co, a London-based company founded in 1864. In 1925 they moved to Liverpool, where they still are, and changed their name to Diamine.

What makes Diamine different?

Diamine inks are very popular, which is in part due to their quality. Something they are proud of is their long heritage and their consistency in manufacturing. Changes in their processes are only made to comply with changes in legislation that cover ink-making. That means no cutting corners and their loyal customers know the ink they like will always be the ink that they like.

Where is Diamine ink made?

Liverpool, in the North of England, in the UK. Yes, there’s not much made in Britain now, but Diamine are still making their own inks here in the UK.

How safe is Diamine ink?

Their general fountain pen inks are very safe to use in all fountain pens. They also make shimmering inks, with tiny particles to add the shimmer, and these are a little bit more of a risk - perfectly fine to use in almost any pens, but you might want to avoid using them in anything too valuable, just in case. Diamine also makes calligraphy inks that are not suitable for fountain pens, and Registrar’s Ink, which is, but does need extra care.

How long has Diamine been making ink?

Since 1864, so it’s over 160 years. If you’re thinking that means they probably know what they’re doing by now, you’d be right.

Can Diamine ink be used for calligraphy?

Yes, but fountain pen inks don’t usually work with dip nibs as well as actual calligraphy ink does. But that’s ok, because Diamine also makes calligraphy ink.

Recommended Diamine products

Diamine’s classic ink range is one of our most popular products. There are plenty of colours to choose from, but if you are looking for some advice you could do worse than ‘Writer’s Blood,’ an impressive red. Or you could use ‘Royal Blue’ which has an interesting claim to fame; in 2010 it was used by Presidents Obama and Medvedev to sign the nuclear arms treaty. The inks are available in 30ml and 80ml bottles - and we think it’s worth the upgrade to the bigger one just for the cool design of the bottle.

We have been working with Diamine for a long time to create Cult Pens exclusive inks, and our most popular exclusive so far is the Diamine Deadly Nightshade. It’s a sheening chameleon ink, with a plum purple base and green shimmer. It even comes with two skulls floating on the surface of the ink. They match the spooky theme of the ink and also help to quickly loosen up the ink when shaken.

If deadly nightshade isn’t your cup of tea you should check out our full range of Cult Pens Diamine exclusives. There is bound to be something in there that you like the look of.