I wanted to use an ink wash for the next installment in the Frosti notebook. I’ve been short on time, so I did a quick sketch of Frosti’s profile. The outlines were done with a Tombow Ultra Roll Pen, the background I used Higgins ink. It performed much like watercolor paint, and I had to be careful not to get the paper too wet or the paper started to bubble. The smooth, coated surface on the paper did resist the watered down ink at first, and there were little specks that did not accept the paint, but this is to be expected with Moleskine’s Japanese Album and Sketchbooks. I think I would prefer the Moleskine Watercolor journal for ink wash in the future.

I used pen & ink and ink wash in the Moleskine Japanese Album. I think the Watercolor Journal would have yielded better results, but this works in a pinch.
I wanted to spend more time on this, but my schedule wouldn’t permit it, so I feel as though this illustration looks rushed. I am not thrilled with it, but like so many things in life, I had to let go of it and look forward to the next one.
Frosti looks quite serene and confident. I think it’s one of those “less is more” things.
Thank you! Frost is one of the most confident dogs I have ever met, although usually not the most serene. I happened to catch him napping on the couch in a rare quite moment.
I just checked out your blog. It is awesome! Lots of good info on pens here: http://www.inkophile.wordpress.com. I see you have some journal reviews, too. Awesome!
Thanks for the kind words. Fountain pens are addictive as are ink and paper. Glad to help folks find products that work well and are aesthetically pleasing. If a tool inspires us, then so much the better. The more we write and draw the better!
I agree, these things are all very addictive, but necessary for the creative process. Keep up the good work!