A few weeks ago, I received two inks from Ferris Wheel Press: Lantern Crossing Ink and Gossiping Grapevine Ink. I’ve been using them for both writing and sketching, and I’d like to share my impressions. (You can find the official product details at the end of this post if you’d like to read more.)
Both inks are water-based and compatible with all fountain pens. I only own fine nib fountain pens at the moment, so all my tests were done with fine nibs. However, since both contain wine shimmer, I’d actually recommend trying them with a medium nib if you want to enjoy that shimmering effect more fully.
Lantern Crossing Ink – part of the Ferritales 2025 Bestiary Series – is a glowing orange with wine shimmer. My first impression was how rich and saturated it is. I tested it in both a fine nib fountain pen and a brush pen. If you want a more even shimmer distribution, it’s best to shake the bottle before filling and also give your pen a gentle shake before writing. I skipped the shake with the fountain pen, so the shimmer appeared randomly—though I actually like the unexpected sparkle that way.
Gossiping Grapevine Ink – from the Summer Getaway Collection – is marketed as an “everyday ink.” It’s a vibrant purple, and the wine shimmer adds a subtle depth and sophistication. With my fine nib, the shimmer appears more sporadically, but again, that’s a look I personally enjoy. For a consistent shimmer, the same shaking rule applies.
I also combined both inks for a small watercolor piece—using the inks diluted with water for washes, then outlining and adding fine details with my fountain pens.
Both inks have very fine shimmer particles. If you’re still worried about shimmer clogging your pen, you could opt for a dip pen instead, which also makes switching colors quicker.
Ferritales | 2025 Bestiary Series – Lantern Crossing Ink
Launch date: Anytime
Post/announce after: Anytime
Ink Tone: Glowy Orange with Wine Shimmer
Characteristics: Vivid, Warm, Jubilant
When the barrier between our world and the netherworld grows thin, Patch has the rare chance to marvel at an endless parade of mysterious yōkai. Ghostly figures and mythical creatures dance around her, their eerie orange glow matching the lanterns that guide their way.
Notable design details:
• A bake-danuki, a mischievous Japanese raccoon dog yōkai, proudly leads the way, followed by a supernatural warrior known as a tengu wielding a protective spear, and a bakeneko, a cat spirit, happily nibbling on a sweet treat in the shape of a fish known as taiyaki.
• The onibi, like will-o’-the-wisps, flare brilliantly in the darkness of the night. Watch out for the lanterns! Some are actually chōchin-obake, distinguished by their mischievous eye and mouth.
Features:
• Water-based and compatible with all fountain pens
• Signature cap
Everyday Ink | Summer Getaway Collection – Gossiping Grapevine Ink
Launch date: Anytime
Post/announce after: Anytime
Ink Tone: Vibrant Purple with Wine Shimmer
Characteristics: Playful, Unique, Vivid
The weekend festivities continue with an exquisite feast in Captain Greyson’s candlelit dining hall. Dine alongside the country’s most famed and fabulous. Indulgence paired with the finest wines from Greyson’s private reserves. Amongst clinking glasses and whispers through the grapevine, more is being spilled than just tea.
Notable design details:
• Heads lean in, whispering juicy tales that pass along from friend to friend, and friend to foe, each adding twists until the fun becomes the storytelling itself.
• Amused giggles, scandalized gasps, and clinking glasses create the lively soundtrack of an evening spent amongst close friends.
• A dinner this animated will surely burn the last candle to its wick, and see every crumb and drop devoured!
Features
• Wine shimmer
• Rich and saturated tones
• Water-based and compatible with all fountain pens
• Signature brass cap