Writing instruments
How to craft a set of color coded pen samples on index cards to compare shading, sheen, and drying characteristics quickly and cleanly.
A practical, repeatable method for organizing ink samples on colored index cards, enabling fast visual comparisons of shade, sheen, and drying behavior across multiple brands and nib types.
August 08, 2025 - 3 min Read
Creating a compact, color coded sample system begins with selecting sturdy white index cards and a catalog of pens you want to compare. Start by labeling each card with a simple, high contrast category marker: brand, ink color, nib size, and intended paper type. Then assign a unique colored border or corner dot to represent each pen line. This upfront coding helps you scan the deck at a glance without opening each card repeatedly. Ensure your writing surface is clean and free of oils to prevent smudges. When organizing, keep sample sequences logical—gradients first, then specialized inks, followed by experimental blends.
The next phase focuses on consistent testing conditions to ensure fair comparisons. Use the same pen holder, same paper stock, and identical writing pressure across every sample. Prepare a moisture-balanced work area and avoid drafts that could affect drying times. Create a standard swatch area on each card by drawing parallel lines of ink three times in a controlled motion. Record the exact drying moment with a timer and note any feathering, bleed, or edge halos. If you notice unusual behavior, note the pen, nib, or batch details for future reference. The aim is reproducibility, not merely impressionistic judgments.
Methods for consistent labeling, swatching, and observation notes.
Start by selecting a base set of index cards that are uniform in size and surface texture. Choose a light, neutral border color for the card backs to avoid distracting reflections when scanning. On each card, place a small, legible heading with essential identifiers: ink name, brand, nib size, and intended paper type. Use colored stickers or corners to represent each pen family, keeping your color palette consistent across the entire deck. The borders should not interfere with handwriting, so position them in far corners. This setup creates a clean, distraction-free workspace that accelerates comparison sessions.
When you apply ink, use controlled, even strokes to ensure consistent coverage. Maintain a steady hand and standard pressure to minimize variation between samples. Let each swatch dry fully before testing additional properties. Observe how inks behave on different papers: some may feather slightly, others may spread into the fiber, while a few sit crisp and dry quickly. Keep track of sheens by inspecting the surface under direct light at a consistent angle. If you observe pooling or unusual textures, document the conditions and consider repeating with a different nib or brand.
Practical considerations for consistent, durable color coding systems.
After the initial swatches, introduce a drying time checkpoint at two, five, and ten minutes, recording any changes on the card margins. This multi-step clock helps you compare drying behavior across inks and nib types. Note whether colors appear richer or duller as the ink dries, which can indicate pigment versus dye-based formulas. Consider also testing on both dry and slightly damp surfaces to reveal resilience or smudging tendencies. Your goal is to assemble a compact atlas that reveals relative drying performance and colorfastness in a format that’s easy to reference during future writing sessions.
Build a legend that translates color cues into actionable insights. For instance, assign red to inks that feather badly, blue for those with strong drying speed, and green for inks with notable sheen changes. Include a short line for each pen describing its performance in terms of shade stability, water resistance, and bleed at edges. This legend should stay consistent across all sessions to avoid confusion. A well-maintained legend reduces time spent deciphering codes and speeds up decision making when choosing a pen for a specific project.
How to record, compare, and reflect on results efficiently.
When you select paper, choose options with distinct textures to reveal how each ink interacts with fibers. Heavier weights tend to resist bleed and feather, but some inks show unique behavior on smooth surfaces. Include at least two different papers in your deck to capture broad performance characteristics. Record the approximate brightness and texture of each paper alongside the swatches. These environmental notes provide context for color perception and longevity; lighting and viewing angle can dramatically alter how a shade appears. A robust system accounts for both ink chemistry and substrate interaction for comprehensive comparisons.
To maintain long-term usefulness, you should archive and refresh your samples periodically. Replace aging cards when the ink becomes persistent or shows staining from previous tests. Create a simple rotation scheme: every quarter, re-test a subset of inks on both papers and under varying light conditions. Document any shifts in color perception or drying behavior that emerge with age or with pen-nib wear. By preserving a living archive, you capture evolving characteristics tied to pen production changes, ink reformulations, or even storage conditions.
Final tips to sustain clarity and usefulness over time.
Capture screenshots or photographs of each card with a consistent framing setup and neutral lighting. Digital records make it easier to search by brand, color family, or drying characteristic later. Attach a short caption to each image noting the key findings, such as “fast drying, slight feathering on matte stock” or “deep shading with moderate sheen.” Integrate your images into a simple spreadsheet or notebook index that mirrors the physical layout. Link the digital entry to the corresponding card color and label for quick cross-referencing in future projects or when sharing findings with peers.
Finally, design a quick-reference workflow that fits into a typical writing session. Begin by scanning the deck to identify a preferred shade family, then pull the matching cards for a focused eval. Check drying times first, then inspect shading and sheen under two lighting angles. If a card demonstrates unusual behavior, flag it and set aside for a deeper follow-up test using alternative nibs or absorbing papers. This lean, repeatable routine ensures you extract maximum value from your samples without turning testing into a lengthy distraction.
Keep your workspace organized with a consistent storage strategy for your index cards and pens. A small tray with labeled sections for each color family, plus a separate bin for recently tested inks, reduces clutter and misplacement. Maintain clean nibs between tests to prevent cross-contamination, which can skew results. If you notice smudges, clean the card surface gently with a cotton swab and a mild, non-residue cleaner before re-testing. Regularly review your legend and codes to ensure they still reflect actual performance. A tidy, methodical approach preserves the integrity of your color comparison system.
As you gain experience, you’ll develop your own refinements that suit your workflow. You might add moisture indicators, temperature notes, or even a brief anecdote about handling comfort with each pen. Consider expanding the set to include gel, fountain, and marker types for a broader perspective. The core principle remains: a repeatable, color-coded indexing method lets you compare shading, sheen, and drying dynamics swiftly and cleanly. With a well-constructed deck, you’ll make informed choices quickly and enjoy a more efficient writing process that lasts for years.
