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How to Make Berry Ink for Calligraphy

Before the invention of ink pens, handwriting was done using the end of a feather called a "quill pen." It was dipped into a dark liquid substance made from various natural materials. During the Civil War, the soldiers were unable to procure ink and paper due to a shortage, so they made their own ink using ripe berries. Here is a simple way to make ink from berries in your own kitchen.

Things You'll Need

  • Strainer
  • Bowl
  • 1/2 cup Ripe berries
  • Wooden Spoon
  • 1/2 tsp. Salt
  • 1/2 tsp. Vinegar
  • Jar with tight-fitting lid
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather the materials you will need for making your ink.

    • 2

      Dump the berries into a strainer and hold it over a bowl to catch all the juice.

    • 3

      Crush the berries against the bottom of the strainer with a wooden spoon so all the juice drips into the bowl.

    • 4

      Squash as much juice as possible out of the berries through the strainer and then discard the remains.

    • 5

      Add salt and vinegar to the berry juice and stir well. The vinegar helps to preserve the color and the salt helps to prevent mold from forming over the juice.

    • 6

      Transfer the mixture into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. A baby food jar or small jelly jar is ideal.

    • 7

      Begin your writing project keeping in mind that the ink will dry quickly.

    • 8

      Freeze unused berry ink for later use. The berry ink will begin to smell badly if left at room temperature.

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