Kuretake "Saiboku Shimbi" is a colored ink stick which demonstrates the beautiful, brilliant colors used in traditional Japanese style paintings.You can easily control ink density or blend colors using these sticks.You can also use these to create different techniques such as bleeding and blurring.With the high-pigment percentage, this watercolor ink stick performs well against lightfast durability. Perfect for professional artists to use when making artwork to be enjoyed for years.Each ink stick comes in its own wooden case, which provides protection to preserve the life of the ink.How to use1.Drop a coin-size droplet of water on the flat "hill" of the ink stone.2.Grind the ink stick into the water in a circular motion.3.When the ink becomes your preferred consistency, guide the ink towardsthe ink "pool" of the ink stone.Repeat steps 1-3 until you have created the preferred amount of ink.4.After use, be sure to remove moisture by wiping the ink stick using a clothor paper.Store ink stick in the wooden box to preserve.