Oak gall ink

[dyemaker]

At work, I noticed an oak tree thick with oak galls so I looked into the use of them. Evidently certain types were used to make ink in old times. The U.S. Constitution was written in oak gall ink. I found several recipes for the ink but have not tried making any yet. I just thought it interesting. :hatsoff:

 

[MSW]

sounds like a pretty cool thing to do. if it works out, please do post the recipe.

thanks!

 

[dyemaker]

It seems an inkwell and turkey feather quill pen wouldn't be that difficult either. :wink:

 

[Robby]

Sounds interesting, keep us posted. :thumbsup:
Robby

 

[shortbow]

I made a big batch a few years ago and still have a litre of it in the fridge. Works very well.

On quills and inkwells, have a look at Jas. Townsend, they have some great ones, and you can buy a quill ready to write from them for a dollar and a half.

 

[50cal.cliff]

Well I must confess this one had me stumped so I googled it!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_gall_ink

I learn something new from this site again! :bow:

 

[dyemaker]

I took a look at their inkwells. Being a flytyer I have a supply of primary wing feathers of various large birds. I found this recipe and instructions on making quill pens. I think the galls were gouty oak galls.....
http://irregulartimes.com/gall.html
http://flick.com/~liralen/quills/quills.html