SAKURA Pigma Micron Fineliner Pens - Archival Black and Gray Ink Pens - Pens for Writing, Drawing, or Journaling - Assorted Point Sizes - 10 Pack

When I read a few months ago that these were being released, I kept looking for them, but couldnt find them. Im so glad theyre finally available! I use Sakura Pigma Microns (in black) for urban sketching and line-and-watercolor work, and have always counted on the fact that the marks will not budge on the paper, no matter how much water I use, or how many layers I put down. This gray set is no different in that regard. I always felt the black was a little too present, and that tones of gray would be nicer to work with... and these are, for my use. I used the darker gray for the outline and the lighter gray for the shading; I shouldve reversed that for this example - which I did with the size 05s - but it was just a quick doodle, and you get the idea. There was no budging when I added the watercolor, and the line tone is much more subtle than black. I hope at some point the gray pens will be available in the 005 size, as thats my favorite to work with. These would be lovely to use for pen and ink techniques as illustrated in the manufacturers photos, and will give artists an additional edge in terms of tones/shading. Just as good as the originals. Glad theyre finally here.

Sakura overall is a great company for art pens, whether they are markers, calligraphy, or inking. The gray set is impressive for shading and outlining. They are archival ink, so they are designed not to fade. There are several reviews that state these are waterproof. Please keep the following in mind when working with them, “will not bleed or run after the ink has dried.” If you plan to use these with watercolors, please ensure you either outline with the pen first, then let it dry, or outline after using the watercolor when the paper is dry. I used them with mixed media gels and made the mistake of not waiting until the paper is dry, then added additional details. See picture. The dark color is the ink smearing.

This set of Sakura Pigma pens offers a really nice range of grays and tips. The archival quality ink looks great and doesnt bleed. I tested on a wide range of papers with good results. The 10 tips ensure you can get the desired effects every time. Sakura pens are always high quality and easily recommended.

good perfect pens, but it was unclear if it was supposed to come with a black of all the sizes and it doesnt. nbd just letting you know