How to Make Talismanic, Saffron Ink
In this follow-up to my previous release on cloth talismans, I’ll show you how to make talismanic ink with saffron for paper and fabric talismans and magick squares.
My process and precise measurements for making this ink are based on instructions I adapted from my teacher, Ali Olomi, as seen on his Patreon: Head On History.
Subscribe to Head On History if you have not done so already!
Watch the Saffron Ink video tutorial below or keep reading!
Saffron Ink Supply List
The shopping list below shows the exact products I used. I encourage you to buy your supplies locally (if possible) and not from the evil empire. I am NOT an Amazon affiliate.
• 63 grams (Half cup) of Food-grade Rose Water
• Big pinch of Saffron threads (about 1 gram)
• 5.69 grams (1 teaspoon) Dragon's Blood Powder
• a few drops of Musk Essential Oil (fragrance oil /plant based, not animal based)
• Mortar and Pestle Grinder or spice grinder of your choosing
• Big Tea Ball or similar fine mesh metal strainer
• Glass measuring cup
• Measuring Spoons
• Small Spatula
• Small stainless steel Saucepan
• Ink Jar, large enough to hold 30 grams (1/4 cup) of ink
• Paper Towels
• A gas or electric stove (don’t use a microwave)
Optional Extras:
• Speedball calligraphy pen and nibs
• Labels
• Light Pad
Instructions:
Step 1:
Grind the saffron threads until you get 2.4 grams (1/2 teaspoon) of freshly ground saffron.
Step 2:
Add the rosewater, the ground saffron, musk oil drops, and dragon’s blood powder into the saucepan.
Step 3:
Stir everything together. Turn the heat on low until you get a gentle boil — a few minutes.
Step 4:
When you see bubbles, turn the heat on the lowest setting. Set a timer for 8 minutes. Leave the saucepan uncovered.
Step 5:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Cover with a lid and let it steep for at least 30 minutes.
Step 6:
Strain the mixture using your tea ball or fine-mesh strainer to remove the debris from your ink.
Step 7:
Pour your ink into a jar and store it in a cool, dark place. Label the jar with the date you made it. The ink will naturally darken over time.
Optional Extras - Calligraphy pen and nibs by Speedball
I recommend using Speedball calligraphy nibs and pens for smooth, even ink strokes. Speedball has been making writing tools for over a hundred years. These nibs are steel and will last forever if you take care of them.
You can get different kinds of nibs. I prefer the nibs with a little heel at the tip, and this pen set is the exact kind I use.
Optional Extras - Light pads
If you’re illiterate in Arabic like I am, a light pad is a great way to make your paper talismans. It helps you trace your magic square/talisman templates!
The LED light is bright enough to allow tracing onto thick artist papers. Most of these pads are powered with a regular USB cable.
Now you know how to make your talismanic ink from scratch, which I use to make solar return talismans.
If you have any questions along the way, drop them into the comments or send me a message through my contact page. I am more than happy to help you. Happy ink making!
