{"title":"Optimist Pigment Ink","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original drawing colors for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"optimist-colorless-shellac-medium","title":"Optimist Colorless Shellac Medium","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe heart of Optimist Mixable Color is shellac medium. This magical amber liquid is the perfect binder for all kinds of pigments because it's strong, flexible, UV-resistant, and waterproof. Unlike acrylic mediums, our Colorless Shellac makes gorgeous transparent glazes when used in high proportions with color.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd Colorless Shellac Medium to Optimist inks to make them lighter, more transparent and glossier. Using shellac-thinned Optimist colors, you can make complex, multi-layered paintings. Paper and pigment textures are more noticeable, and the ink moves more freely. With high proportions of medium, you'll create thin, shiny layers that look almost like stained glass. With smaller proportions, you can achieve bright, high-chroma colors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhat is Shellac?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShellac is made by insects, much like beeswax or silk. It is a reddish, resinous substance that is deposited on tree branches by \u003cem\u003ekerria lacca, \u003c\/em\u003einformally known as a lac bug. These tiny insects are native to South Asia, which is why shellac-based inks are often called \"India ink,\" even when they are made nowhere near India.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShellac is a natural thermoplastic, predating all synthetic plastics and offering a much better environmental profile—since there are no fossil fuels involved in shellac's synthesis. The cultivation process is much lower-carbon than other forms of agriculture, because lac farmers use existing trees to host their colonies. Lac is an economic reason to protect the forests, rather than cut them down to cultivate other crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the farmers scrape the raw \"sticklac\" from the tree bark, they heat it over a fire to liquefy it, allowing them to filter out the bark and other impurities. Some shellac (like the premium material that we use) also undergoes dewaxing, in which the 10% wax content of raw shellac is removed. This leaves a nearly pure resin that can be turned into a food additive, a protective coating, an adhesive... or, a bottle of ink.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"50 mL Precision Bottle","offer_id":43945915056386,"sku":"785366200065","price":8.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200 mL Precision Bottle","offer_id":43945915089154,"sku":"785366200126","price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/2025-optimist-medium-both.jpg?v=1750338627"},{"product_id":"optimist-ink-solvent","title":"Optimist Ink Solvent","description":"\u003cp\u003eOptimist Mixable Color is waterproof, so it can be tricky to remove from surfaces and brushes if it dries. That's why we created Optimist Ink Solvent, a gentle solvent that breaks the chemical bonds in wet or dry shellac.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSqueeze Optimist Ink Solvent onto your palette and brushes after a painting session, and our shellac-based ink will quickly start to break up and peel away. Rinse brushes after using Ink Solvent for best results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist Ink Solvent is packaged in a 200 mL flip-top bottle. Made in the USA.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43945915285762,"sku":"785366200171","price":7.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/2025-optimist-200mL-solvent-pow.jpg?v=1750338693"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-000-black","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #000 Black, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43945915449602,"sku":"785366200041","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-000-50-pow.jpg?v=1750861681"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-047-primary-yellow","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #047 Primary Yellow, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44144330277122,"sku":"785366200072","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-047-50-pow.jpg?v=1750861572"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-230-primary-cyan","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #230 Primary Cyan, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43945916694786,"sku":"785366200089","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-230-50-pow.jpg?v=1750861788"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-325-primary-magenta","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #325 Primary Magenta, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIntroducing Optimist Mixable Color, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUsing Optimist Mixable Color is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, or a 45 mL glass inkwell for easy access with a dip pen or brush.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"notranslate\" style=\"all: initial;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44293614633218,"sku":"785366200096","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-325-50-pow.jpg?v=1750861142"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-360-white","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #360 White, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44293592449282,"sku":"785366200058","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-360-50-pow.jpg?v=1750861003"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-cmyk-set-of-6","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, CMYK+ Set of 6","description":"\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist CMYK+ Set of 6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCMYK+ is our complete mixing system, with a color range and intensity that go way beyond standard mixing sets from other brands. Unlike classic red-yellow-blue color mixing, CMYK allows for brighter secondary colors (especially purple and green) and an overall wider range of hues. Our Primary Cyan, Primary Magenta, Primary Yellow, and Black are designed to work perfectly together, with matching pigment loads and handling characteristics that enable clearer, cleaner mixed colors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhat's the \"plus\" in CMYK+? That would be our White and Colorless Shellac Medium, both included in this box. The white is incredibly opaque, thanks to its extremely high pigmentation, and allows you to make lovely pastel shades from each mixed color you create. The colorless medium allows perfect dilutions of each mixed color, increasing transparency and gloss while increasing the chroma of darker colors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe CMYK+ Set of 6 includes our 50 mL Precision Bottles in Primary Cyan, Primary Magenta, Primary Yellow, White, Black, and Colorless Shellac Medium, all in a slide-out box with foil stamping. It's a great gift for any artist and an excellent starting point for anyone interested in working with inks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout Optimist: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIntroducing Optimist Mixable Color, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUsing Optimist Mixable Color is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEach color in this set is packaged in a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"notranslate\" style=\"all: initial;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43945917415682,"sku":"785366200102","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimistCMYKset2026pow.jpg?v=1778014561"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-002-federal-red","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #002 Federal Red, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44010505306370,"sku":"785366200201","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-002-50-pow.jpg?v=1750860647"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-300-red-violet","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #300 Red Violet, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128267567362,"sku":"785366200256","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-300-50-pow.jpg?v=1750817169"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-220-prussian-blue","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #220 Prussian Blue, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128277692674,"sku":"785366200232","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-220-50-pow.jpg?v=1750860261"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-200-mediterranean","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #200 Mediterranean, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128280609026,"sku":"785366200270","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-200-50-pow.jpg?v=1750859982"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-150-seaweed","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #150 Seaweed, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128286408962,"sku":"785366200294","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-150-50-pow.jpg?v=1750859803"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-110-basil","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #110 Basil, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128287129858,"sku":"785366200317","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-110-50-pow.jpg?v=1750859471"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-seaside-set-of-4","title":"Optimist Mixable Color, Seaside Set of 4","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeaside Set of 4\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew for 2024, our Optimist Seaside Set includes four powerful colors that evoke ocean mist and lush foliage. We've included #200 Mediterranean, #220 Prussian Blue, #150 Seaweed, and #110 Basil, all in 45 mL glass inkwells. Perfect for drawing, calligraphy, or painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eAbout Optimist Mixable Color\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Mixable Color, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Mixable Color is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128300138754,"sku":"785366200331","price":44.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-seaside-2025.jpg?v=1750816885"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-bright-floral-trio","title":"Optimist Mixable Color, Bright Floral Trio","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eBright Floral Trio\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMake your botanical sketches pop with this trio of Optimist Mixable Color bottles. We've included #325 Primary Magenta, #047 Primary Yellow, and #300 Red Violet in this bundle—an ideal starting point for artists who love bright colors. All three are in 50 mL Precision Bottles for easy application in drips, drops, or streams.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse them straight from the bottle to add pure, bright accents to your sketches, or mix them with other Optimist colors on your palette. Either way, this trio will add some welcome warmth to your studio.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eAbout Optimist Mixable Color\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Mixable Color, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Mixable Color is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44128362201346,"sku":"785366200348","price":36.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/bright-floral-trio-new.jpg?v=1712838802"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-complete-bundle","title":"Optimist Mixable Color, Complete Bundle","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eOptimist Mixable Color, Complete Bundle\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy popular demand, we're offering this complete set with all 12 Optimist colors in full-sized (50 mL) bottles! We've also included large 200 mL bottles of our Ink Solvent and Colorless Shellac Medium, so this bundle has everything you need to make lots and lots of artwork with Optimist Mixable Color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colors included are Black #000, Federal Red #002, Tangerine #015, Primary Yellow #047, Basil #110, Seaweed #150, Mediterranean #200, Prussian Blue #220, Primary Cyan #230, Red Violet #300, Primary Magenta #325, and White #360.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur Black and White are highly opaque, so you can use those two colors to make opaque and desaturated versions of any other color. All three of our primary colors are included (yellow, magenta, and cyan), plus alternate reds and blues and our growing range of greens. They're all designed to mix and layer together, so you can make virtually any color you can imagine with Optimist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colorless medium, provided here in a large bottle, decreases saturation, increases transparency, and increases chroma. You can make pale, bright versions of any color by adding medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, our Optimist Ink Solvent allows easy cleanup of palettes, brushes, and surfaces. Apply it to the intended surface, wait a few seconds, then wipe it off.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eAbout Optimist\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Mixable Color, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Mixable Color is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Optimist Complete Bundle includes each color, plus solvent and medium, all packed in our signature Precision Bottles with tips that can dispense a drop or a full stream.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44354834366722,"sku":"785366200393","price":175.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-complete-bundle-apr24.jpg?v=1712839160"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-015-tangerine","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #015 Tangerine, 50 mL Precision Bottle","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44658745540866,"sku":"0785366200409","price":12.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-015-50-pow.jpg?v=1750814676"},{"product_id":"optimist-mixable-color-sketching-set-of-6","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, Sketching Set of 6","description":"\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Sketching Set of 6\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOptimist Pigment Ink is an intensely-pigmented, quick-drying, waterproof ink—perfect for sketching and mixed media art. This box contains six of our most intense colors, ready to use right from the bottle. Feel free to drip Optimist straight from the Precision Bottle onto the page—or get a bit more specific by applying Optimist colors with your favorite brushes and dip pens.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Optimist Sketching Set includes six bold colors that aren't found in our standard \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/stlartsupply.mom\/collections\/optimist-mixable-color\/products\/optimist-mixable-color-cmyk-set-of-6\"\u003eCMYK+ Mixing Set\u003c\/a\u003e. Slide open the box to find six 50 mL Precision Bottles filled with Prussian Blue, Red Violet, Mediterranean, Basil, Federal Red, and Tangerine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbout Optimist: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEach color in this set is packaged in a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44906389209346,"sku":"785366200423","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimistsketchingset2026pow.jpg?v=1778014548"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-015-tangerine-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #015 Tangerine, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46248440103170,"sku":"0785366200416","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-015-45-pow.jpg?v=1750814608"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-110-basil-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #110 Basil, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261116240130,"sku":"785366200324","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-110-45-pow.jpg?v=1750859471"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-150-seaweed-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #150 Seaweed, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261317501186,"sku":"785366200300","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-150-45-pow.jpg?v=1750859810"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-200-mediterranean-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #200 Mediterranean, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261382676738,"sku":"785366200287","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-200-45-pow.jpg?v=1750859982"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-220-prussian-blue-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #220 Prussian Blue, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261481046274,"sku":"785366200249","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-220-45-pow.jpg?v=1750860261"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-300-red-violet-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #300 Red Violet, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261607366914,"sku":"785366200263","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-300-45-pow.jpg?v=1750860519"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-002-federal-red-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #002 Federal Red, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261675262210,"sku":"785366200218","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-002-45-pow.jpg?v=1750860647"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-360-white-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #360 White, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261820162306,"sku":"785366200379","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-360-45-pow.jpg?v=1750861008"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-325-primary-magenta-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #325 Primary Magenta, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIntroducing Optimist Mixable Color, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUsing Optimist Mixable Color is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, or a 45 mL glass inkwell for easy access with a dip pen or brush.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"notranslate\" style=\"all: initial;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261879603458,"sku":"785366200362","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-325-45-pow.jpg?v=1750861142"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-230-primary-cyan-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #230 Primary Cyan, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46261972599042,"sku":"785366200188","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-230-45-pow.jpg?v=1750861794"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-047-primary-yellow-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #047 Primary Yellow, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46262044983554,"sku":"785366200355","price":11.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-047-45-pow.jpg?v=1750861572"},{"product_id":"optimist-pigment-ink-000-black-45-ml-inkwell","title":"Optimist Pigment Ink, #000 Black, 45 mL Inkwell","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing Optimist Pigment Ink, our original ink for art and design. Optimist is made with natural shellac, a beautiful organic resin that binds pigment to paper, resists UV radiation, and dries totally waterproof. Unlike many drawing inks, Optimist includes only lightfast pigments, so the colors mix perfectly, and your work can be displayed for many years without fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care Tips\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Optimist Pigment Ink is simple: grab a dip pen or brush and get some ink on it. You can use Optimist straight from the bottle; it's highly fluid and moves smoothly across paper. You can also dilute it with Optimist Colorless Medium, the purest form of our water-based shellac. (Dilution with water is possible, and produces some nice textures and effects, but please note that adding water will change the characteristics of the ink and make it less waterproof.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOptimist dries quickly (within a few minutes for a normal application), so you can layer more inks or watercolors over it with no blending or bleeding. It's also an ideal choice for adding opaque highlights and shadows to your watercolor pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShake well before using. Keep brushes wet during use and wash promptly for best results. To clean up, try a bottle of Optimist Ink Solvent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOptimist Story\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe opened our art supply business in 2015, and one of the first things we learned was how to make india ink. Our original formula was hand-mixed and much less consistent than Optimist, but our customers loved it because traditional shellac-based ink is just special, and it's not that easy to find anymore. Most manufacturers have replaced shellac with acrylic polymer, which has its advantages but is simply not as beautiful as shellac resin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe stopped selling that early ink recipe a couple years later, but ever since, we've been researching and refining—not to mention, we added a powerful three-roll mill to disperse our pigments with total consistency. Finally, we're experiencing the magic of shellac ink again (I think it smells really nice, even if you remember that it's made by bugs). But now, we also have the technology and experience to make it a consistent option for serious artists. We hope this elemental material improves your flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Info\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer this Optimist color in two formats: a 50 mL Precision Bottle, which is squeezable and can dispense a drop or a full stream, and a 45 mL Glass Inkwell, ideal for calligraphy and dip pen illustration work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConforms to ASTM D-4236. Made in the United States.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Federal Color","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46262108520706,"sku":"785366200034","price":9.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/files\/optimist-2025-000-45-pow.jpg?v=1750861681"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2228\/7429\/collections\/optimist_launch_shoot_16_of_38.jpg?v=1698117388","url":"https:\/\/stlartsupply.mom\/collections\/optimist-mixable-color.oembed","provider":"St. Louis Art Supply","version":"1.0","type":"link"}