Happy New Year Everyone!

​

Studio Observations

I’m a watercolor artist who often incorporates fountain pen ink into my botanical work, so I pay close attention to how an ink behaves once water is introduced. Eightfold Fortune from Ferris Wheel Press’ Ferritales 2026 Lunar New Year collection is a fiery crimson red with a champagne rose shimmer that I absolutely love. On paper, it shifts easily between bold marks and softer washes. It blooms beautifully and bleeds naturally, giving a sense of movement and life to every stroke. The color is confident and warm straight from the bottle, yet softens gently when diluted with water, creating translucent washes that feel effortless.

 

I tested the ink on a swatch card and through several botanical sketches, primarily leaves and plants, which is my usual approach when exploring a new color. The shimmer is soft and subtle, never overpowering—just enough to lift a simple botanical study from ordinary to elegant. It integrates seamlessly with my watercolor techniques, allowing me to move between brush and ink without interruption, which makes painting nature-inspired subjects feel fluid and intuitive.

 

Packaging & Design

The 20 ml bottle is beautifully packaged, featuring porcelain-inspired patterns and galloping horses referencing Long Ma, a mythical winged horse from Chinese tradition. Floral elements such as calla lilies and jasmine are woven into the design, reinforcing themes of prosperity, positive energy, and natural beauty.

 

Final Thoughts

Eightfold Fortune feels celebratory and vibrant. It’s an ink I would happily return to for both seasonal pieces and everyday botanical and nature studies, especially when I want warmth, subtle shimmer, and natural movement in my work. It’s a color that inspires joy in the process, and every stroke feels intentional, expressive, and just a little magical.