Colorverse - Alpha UMa

Colorverse Alpha UMa - Ink Drop

I’m particularly picky when it comes to grey inks. I really enjoy some, but many just kind of bore me. I’m happy to say that Colorverse Alpha (a) UMa has all of the qualities that I look for and love in a grey-based ink. Named for the second brightest star in Ursa Major (aka “the Big Dipper”), it’s part of the Colorverse Constellation series. In the Colorverse catalog online, it’s ink 013, and you’ll find it in the beautiful, teardrop, 65ml bottles.

Alpha UMa’s complex colors

I like greys on the lighter, smokier side, with a secondary color to contrast the grey and bring out its treasures. Alpha UMa has all of that! It’s a beautiful, creamy grey, almost like the gloved fingers of smoke that rise from a smoldering cigarette. From the chromatography, you can see the ink’s complex recipe, and the splatters show strong interior elements of yellows and edge purples. Written strokes are filled with the funky yellow and purple accents, and this gives the ink an interesting appeal in writing. Decent shading brings it all together. This is a very intriguing grey.

Alpha UMa’s darks and lights

In writing, Alpha UMa performs very nicely. It’s wet and consistent on the page. Drying is fast, too. It’s crisp and clean, giving strokes a nice, sharp profile. I liked it on both coated and uncoated papers, but uncoated papers let it put on a much more interesting show.

Alpha UMa’s well-defined strokes

The Colorverse Constellation series continues to provide consistent, interesting inks. Alpha UMa reminds me of many of my favorite greys, but it’s unique in its coloration. I really like it! If you’re ready for a new grey, It's a great choice. Enjoy!

Swatch card with chromatography and drying times

Swatch card comparisons

Such an interesting mix!