How Is India Ink Made?

Traditional black drawing ink, which originated in Asia and is therefore often referred to as India ink or Chinese ink, consists of very fine particles of carbon pigment, usually lampblack (soot), dispersed in an aqueous solution with a glue or gum binder.

What are the ingredients of India ink?

Also known as Chinese ink, Indian ink stems from one of the oldest and most durable pigments of all time: carbon black. Made from ash mixed with a binder such as water, liquid or glue, various recipes for carbon black can be found as far back in history as the ancient Egyptians and Greeks.

Is India ink toxic?

Due to the toxicity levels of India ink being so low though, it is doubtful that it will be able to cause any problems with a reaction on your skin as India ink is carbon based with minimal allergins.