Properly prepare a new Chinese inkstone (开砚)
When acquiring a new Chinese inkstone (砚台 yàntái), an essential step is required before any use: the 开砚 (kāi yàn), literally "opening the inkstone".
Why is it necessary to "open" an inkstone?
New inkstones are usually covered with a thin layer of protective wax.
If you start grinding the ink directly, the ink stick may slip on the surface, making the grinding inefficient and uneven. The ink pad therefore allows you to remove this layer and prepare the surface for optimal use.
Common methods
The most common traditional method involves using sandpaper (400 to 800 grit) to lightly sand the surface.
However, this technique can leave micro-scratches, which is not ideal, especially for quality stones.
👉 Recommended method
A gentle and effective alternative is to use:
- a toothbrush
- a little toothpaste
Steps:
- Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the surface of the stone.
- Brush gently for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Wipe it off and let it dry naturally.
Your stone is now ready for use.
How to grind ink properly
- Place 2 to 3 drops of water on the surface of the stone.
- Hold the ink stick straight.
- Grind the ink in one direction only (always clockwise or always counterclockwise).
- After about 3 minutes, add 1 to 2 drops of water.
- Continue until you obtain a slightly thick and homogeneous ink.
Maintenance after use
Wipe the ink stick thoroughly after use, then wrap it to prevent it from drying out or cracking.
If there is still ink in the stone after writing: add a little water to the outer edge to maintain moisture, close the stone with its lid.
The 开砚 is not just a technical step: it is also a ritual of entry into the practice of Chinese calligraphy, a moment of preparation and respect for the tools of writing.
