As an illustrator, I’m always on the lookout for materials that inspire creativity and bring something unique to my work. Ink, in particular, holds a special place in my process—it offers rich colour, fluidity, and a versatility that works across different styles. So, when I got my hands on Winsor & Newton’s Drawing Inks, specifically the Henry Collection and the Metallic Tones, I was eager to see how they performed.
First Impressions
Winsor & Newton’s Drawing Inks are known for their vibrant hues and smooth application, and these two collections are no exception. Here’s what stood out right away:
The Henry Collection includes a curated selection of deep, bold colours inspired by the legacy of Henry Winsor.
The Metallic Tones promised a shimmering effect, perfect for highlights and special details.
The bottles are classic and compact, making them both aesthetically pleasing and practical for studio use.
Both sets come in iconic glass bottles with a vintage-style label, which adds a touch of charm to the experience. But how do they perform?
Pigment Performance
Henry Collection: The colours in this set are rich, intense, and highly pigmented. From the deep Scarlet to the moody Blue-Black, the inks provide smooth coverage and a nice level of transparency when diluted with water. They’re quick-drying, which is great for layering but can be a challenge to control if you like to blend directly on paper.
Metallic Tones: These inks offer a beautiful shimmer that’s perfect for adding highlights or embellishments. The Silver and Gold are particularly striking, reflecting light in a way that adds dimension to illustrations. However, they require a good shake before use, as the metallic pigments tend to settle at the bottom of the bottle.
Mixing & Layering
One of the biggest advantages of Winsor & Newton’s Drawing Inks is how well they layer. When applied in multiple passes, the colours build up beautifully without becoming muddy. The Henry Collection colours mix well together, though some darker shades can overpower the lighter tones if not handled carefully.
The Metallic Tones are best used as final accents rather than layered, as too much layering can diminish their shine. They also sit slightly on the surface of the paper, which can lead to smudging if not given ample drying time.
Usability & Application
These inks work brilliantly with dip pens, brushes, and even airbrushes. Here’s what I found:
✔️ For linework: The Henry Collection performs well with dip pens, offering smooth flow and crisp edges. The Metallic Tones, however, can clog finer nibs, so they’re better suited for broader strokes or brush application.
✔️ For washes: When diluted, the Henry Collection inks create gorgeous watercolour-like washes, though they dry quickly, meaning you need to work fast. The Metallic Tones, on the other hand, don’t dilute as seamlessly and are best used in their full strength for maximum impact.
✔️ On different papers: These inks behave differently depending on the paper used. On smooth hot-pressed watercolour paper, they glide effortlessly, while on textured cold-pressed paper, the Metallic Tones can sometimes pool or dry unevenly.
Who Are These Inks For?
So, should you add the Winsor & Newton Henry Collection and Metallic Tones to your toolkit? Here’s my breakdown:
✔️ Great for:
Illustrators who love bold, vibrant inks for linework and washes.
Artists who enjoy mixed media, especially when combining ink with watercolour or gouache.
Anyone looking to add metallic highlights and details to their work.
❌ Not ideal for:
Artists who prefer slow-drying inks for blending.
Those looking for waterproof inks—these aren’t fully waterproof when dry, so they may reactivate slightly if layered with water-based media.
Calligraphers using fine nibs—Metallic Tones can be tricky in delicate dip pens.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Winsor & Newton’s Henry Collection and Metallic Tones live up to the brand’s reputation for quality. The Henry Collection offers rich, expressive colours that perform beautifully for both detailed illustrations and loose washes. Meanwhile, the Metallic Tones bring a stunning shimmer that’s perfect for finishing touches.
Would I use them for every project? Probably not. But for inking illustrations, adding dramatic accents, and experimenting with mixed media, these inks are a fantastic addition to my creative toolkit.
Have You Tried These Inks?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you experimented with the Winsor and Newton Henry Collection of drawing inks or the Metallic Tones? How do they compare to your favourite inks? Drop a comment below or tag me in your creations—I love seeing how other artists use these materials in their own unique way!
NOTE: This is not a paid review and all opinions are my own.