✦
MAKEWORKS
Inks/Charcoal Stick Ink
Soot / CarbonEasySafety: Moderate Risk

Charcoal Stick Ink

Grind a lump of charcoal from the fire pit.

Color
Soft black
Yield
≈ 50 ml
Shelf life
Indefinite

Grind charcoal sticks to powder, then stir into water with a little gum arabic.

  • ▸Charcoal is wood that has been burned without enough air to fully turn to ash.
  • ▸Sift the powder really fine or it will be gritty.
  • ▸Same chemistry as lampblack, but easier to make at home.

Steps

  1. 01

    Grind charcoal to the finest powder you can.

  2. 02

    Sift through fine cloth to remove grit.

  3. 03

    Mix with gum arabic solution until smooth.

Materials
3
  • — A piece of hardwood charcoal (vine charcoal works best)
  • — Mortar and pestle
  • — Gum arabic in water

Safety

Moderate Risk

Involves dust, mild chemistry, sharp tools, or solvents. Use PPE and ventilate.

Hazards identified
  • Airborne dust — respiratory irritant
Quick checklist
  • ☐Wear an N95 / FFP2 mask when handling dry powders
  • ☐Mix in a tray to contain dust; wipe surfaces wet
  • ☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
  • ☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
  • ☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible

Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.

Notes

Less dense than lampblack but quick to make from a campfire.