Rust Ink

January 2024.

Iron is used by dye-makers to “sadden” a color; to shift the color toward darker hues.

Collected rusty iron from my Dad’s basement, and from the streets near my home and work.

Soaked in 2/3 distilled water and 1/3 white vinegar. Covered and set out for a few weeks until water turned orange/brown and rust sediment released to bottom of jar.

Strained through hand held strainer, reserving rusty metal*. Filtered through coffee filter.

Bottled 60ml Rust Water-Based Ink with 10 drops of liquid gum Arabic (water, glycerin, gum, honey), preservative, and 2 drops each wintergreen/clove essential oil.

*Placed reserved rusty metal in new jar of vinegar/water to soak, producing continuous supply of rust ink solution.