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–+ servings

Iron Gall Ink

Experience the ancient art of creating Iron Gall Ink, enhanced with a powerful ritual to infuse your ink with magical energy. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making traditional iron gall ink using natural ingredients like crushed gallnuts and ferrous sulfate. Perfect for magical writings and spells, this ink is not only a practical tool but also a vessel of your intentions and energy.
Print Spell Pin Spell
Prep Time 20 minutes
Spell Time 1 hour
Ritual Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Type of Spell: Magical Ink
Purpose of Spell: Alchemical Magic

Equipment

  • 1 Mortar and pestle or grinder
  • 1 Non-reactive pot (stainless steel or enamel)
  • 1 Fine sieve or cheesecloth
  • 1 Glass jar with a tight lid
  • 1 Stirring rod or spoon
  • 1 White Candle
  • Incense (Frankincense or Sandalwood)
  • A sacred space or altar

Ingredients

  • 1 oz crushed gallnuts (oak galls)
  • 1 oz ferrous sulfate (iron sulfate)
  • 1 tablespoon gum arabic
  • 2 cups distilled water
  • 2 drops wine or vinegar (optional, for preservation)

Instructions
 

Prepare Your Sacred Space:

  • Begin by setting up your sacred space or altar. Light the white candle and the incense to purify the area. Focus your intentions on creating a powerful and magical ink.

Prepare the Gallnuts:

  • Crush the gallnuts using a mortar and pestle or a grinder until they form a coarse powder. As you crush the gallnuts, chant:
    "From the strength of oak and iron's might,
    By ancient magic and moonlit night,
    Ink of power, dark and true,
    I create with wisdom's view."

Boil the Gallnuts:

  • In a non-reactive pot, bring the distilled water to a boil.
  • Add the crushed gallnuts to the boiling water.
  • Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. As it simmers, visualize your ink absorbing the magical properties of the oak.

Strain the Mixture:

  • After simmering, remove the pot from heat.
  • Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a glass jar to remove any solid particles.

Add the Iron Sulfate:

  • While the liquid is still warm, gradually add the ferrous sulfate, stirring continuously until it is completely dissolved. Recite:
    "Iron's essence, strength impart,
    Bind this ink with ancient art,
    Dark and potent, pure and bold,
    Magic's story now unfolds."

Add the Gum Arabic:

  • Add the gum arabic to the mixture and stir until it is fully dissolved. This will help thicken the ink and improve its flow.

Optional Preservation:

  • Add a few drops of wine or vinegar to the ink to help preserve it and prevent mold growth.

Empower the Ink:

  • Hold the jar of ink between your hands and close your eyes. Focus your energy and intention into the ink, visualizing it glowing with magical power. Say:
    "Ink of shadows, ink of light,
    By my will, empowered this night,
    Serve me well in spell and rite,
    So mote it be, by sacred right."

Cool and Store:

  • Allow the ink to cool to room temperature.
  • Transfer the ink to a glass jar with a tight lid. Store it in a cool, dark place.

Usage:

  • Shake well before each use.
  • Test the ink with a dip pen or quill on a piece of paper to ensure it flows well.

Notes

  • The color of the ink may darken over time as it oxidizes.
Safety Warning:
  • Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area when making and using the ink.
  • Wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling the ingredients, especially ferrous sulfate.
Tried this spell?Let us know how it worked!