INK REVIEW: Noodler’s Baystate Concord Grape

Posted on by

Noodler’s Baystate Concord Grape Ink Swab

Disclaimer: While I usually scan the sheets of paper for my ink reviews, these images are coming right out of my iPhone. That explains the inconsistencies in color and quality.

Second Disclaimer: I realize that this post flies in the face of what I said last week about putting up with some other things as long as the color and saturation are there. What can I say? I’m fickle.

If you’ve been in the fountain pen community for any length of time, you  have probably heard of Noodler’s Baystate Blue. Famous for it’s amazing color and it’s amazing ability to stain (or even ruin?) your most loved pens.

But Blue isn’t the only Baystate color from Noodler’s. There is Concord Grape and also Cranberry.

Today, we discuss Concord Grape.

No likeie.

The color is what I expected – very saturated, very purple. No complaints there.

But here’s the problem….

Baystate Concord Grape – Apica Paper Test
Noodler’s Baystate Concord Grape – Levenger Paper Test
Noodler’s Baystate Concord Grape – HP 32lb Paper Test

It’s the feathering. Click on the images to see the full-size or have a look at these screenshots from the original images.

If it was just one paper (especially the Levenger, which has been questionable with a number of inks), I could let it go. The color is so great that a problem here or there is ok with me, but this ink was a problem on almost every paper I used.

I was using a Pilot Metropolitan (medium nib). It’s a pen I’m very familiar with and have had no problems with in the past. After the ink sat in this pen for a day or so, the flow was terrible – I eventually had to open the pen and give the squeezie converter thing a little squeeze to get things flowing again.

With most of my ink reviews, I use the ink regularly for an entire week before posting. I was only a few days into the week before I realized that I wasn’t reaching for this ink at all. It was making a mess out of my work notebook (a Rhodia) with all of its ugly feathering.

Now, of course, your mileage may vary and I’m no expert in pens and inks (just love me some pretty colors and shiny things). If you’ve tried Baystate Concord Grape, I would love to hear about your experiences.

4,736 thoughts on “INK REVIEW: Noodler’s Baystate Concord Grape”

  5. You could definitely see your expertise in the work you write.

    The world hopes for more passionate writers like you who aren’t afraid to mention how they believe.
    All the time follow your heart.

    Reply ↓

  6. Good post. I learn something totally new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon everyday.

    It will always be exciting to read articles from other
    writers and practice something from other sites.

    Reply ↓

  8. Thanks on your marvelous posting! I truly enjoyed reading it, you happen to be a great
    author. I will make sure to bookmark your blog and will often come back later on. I
    want to encourage continue your great writing, have a nice
    weekend!

    Reply ↓

  25. Good morning!
    Protect freedom with interesting mysterious data holding valuable civil rights keys and defend liberty fiercely see on the website for rights guides
    Full information on the link – https://33capy.site
    All the best and development in business!

    Reply ↓

  44. I think this is one of the most vital info for me. And i am
    glad reading your article. But should remark on few general
    things, The website style is perfect, the articles is really great :
    D. Good job, cheers

    Reply ↓

  46. I just like the helpful info you supply for your articles.
    I’ll bookmark your weblog and take a look at once more here regularly.
    I am moderately sure I will be told many new stuff proper here!
    Good luck for the following!

    Reply ↓

Leave a Reply to Pinkie Denice Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *