Ancient ink stick making revitalized

Ink sticks are essential tools in the creation of traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy. In central China's Anhui Province, the craft of making ink sticks can be traced back more than 1,000 years.

[@simplica1]

I am now interested in getting some of these ink sticks and stone plates. They are not only useful for calligraphy/ink painting but are beautiful art pieces in themselves. This video definitely deserves a lot more viewing!

[@thuggie1]

i like the effects and control you get with high quality chinese ink sticks. also those ink sculptures look amazing.

[@P_Squiggles]

This is exquisite! Ink stick making is really a beautiful process! I salute the masters of this fine art

[@lorenrenee1]

I’ve just started sumo-e and fell in love with ink sticks. I like making the ink before painting its very meditative. This is fascinating for me to watch. I am so happy to see this art continues in current generation. These sticks are so beautiful.

[@piitii8141]

in the same way that you use different axes for (denser) trees in america compared to, say, europe, i wonder how american pine soot ink would differ from this guy's stuff..

[@kathrynhopkins]

Just soot and water? I thought all Sumi sticks contained animal glue so I've been avoiding them.

[@miaomiaochan]

No, they definitely do use animal products as binders. Depending on the recipe, they can be vegetarian-friendly, but unfortunately, none are vegan-friendly. Bottled ink would be your only option if you're vegan.