The video is a direct overview of the drawing tools the creator is currently using, with a focus on achieving waterproof black linework suitable for watercolor. He explains his switch to TWSBI fountain pens, which he claims do not clog with pigmented, waterproof inks like Platinum Carbon Ink. He also details his use of various dip pens, specifically recommending flexible nibs like the Brause No. 66 for creating line variation and his signature ink splash effect. Finally, he discusses refilling brush pens with fountain pen ink for consistency and using water on wet ink to create washes.
A Review of an Artist's Current Drawing Tools
0:41 - Waterproof Inks for Fountain Pens: To allow for watercoloring over linework, waterproof ink is necessary. The creator lists compatible options like Platinum Carbon Ink, Rohrer & Klingner SketchINK, and Octopus Write & Draw Ink, stating he primarily uses the Platinum ink.
1:41 - TWSBI Fountain Pens: He has switched exclusively to TWSBI fountain pens (in extra-fine, medium, and bold nibs) because, unlike other pens he's used, they do not clog or dry out overnight when filled with pigmented waterproof inks. This is the main point of the video.
5:52 - Single Pen Recommendation: If you were to buy only one, he suggests the medium nib. It offers good standard lines and can produce a line as fine as the extra-fine nib when used upside down.
6:30 - Dip Pens and Splatter Technique: The creator uses dip pens with flexible steel nibs to create his characteristic ink splashes. He achieves this by applying pressure and bending the nib backward, a technique that requires practice and will likely destroy nibs.
8:04 - Dip Pen Inks: He uses various waterproof inks with his dip pens, such as India Ink and Liquitex acrylic ink. He explicitly warns that these traditional dip pen inks will ruin fountain pens.
11:01 - Flexible Nibs for Line Variation: For maximum line variation and easier splattering, he recommends highly flexible nibs, specifically mentioning the Brause No. 66.
13:54 - Refillable Brush Pens: He uses brush pens from Pilot and Kuretake but discards the original ink cartridges. He refills the empty cartridges with his fountain pen ink (Platinum Carbon) using a blunt syringe for tool consistency.
16:00 - Creating Washes with Waterproof Ink: He demonstrates how to create gray washes by applying water to the Platinum Carbon Ink while it is still wet. Once the ink dries, it becomes permanent and waterproof.