Can I use these brushes with both liquid ink and ground sumi ink?

Yes — our brushes work well with both. Just note that liquid ink and freshly ground inkstick ink can behave slightly differently in terms of viscosity, so it may take a little adjustment to get the same flow you're used to.

Whichever you use, the same care principle applies: rinse the brush thoroughly after each session so ink doesn't dry and harden inside the bristles.

Just be sure to use Japanese-made ink, whether liquid or solid — these brushes aren't suited to modern synthetic materials or commercial paints.

Incompatible substances can make cleaning difficult and may damage the brush over time.

Beyond ink, treat the brush as a delicate instrument. Striking the handle against a hard surface can crack it and loosen the bristles, ruining the brush.

Gentle handling is the secret to a long-lasting brush.