Baystate Blue 4.5 oz Review: The Legendary Blue That Stains

When it comes to fountain pen inks, few names evoke as much passion and caution as Noodler's Baystate Blue. This ink has achieved legendary status among enthusiasts for its electric, eye-searing blue hue that seems to glow on the page. But with great color comes great responsibility—Baystate Blue is notorious for staining anything it touches, from pens to countertops to your fingers. In this review, we'll dive deep into the 4.5 oz bottle, exploring its color, performance, and the infamous staining that has become part of its lore.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, understanding Baystate Blue is essential. It's not just an ink; it's an experience. In this article, we'll cover everything from its vibrant appearance to practical tips for handling it safely. By the end, you'll know whether this famous blue ink deserves a spot in your collection.

The Color: A Blue Like No Other

Baystate Blue is often described as the most vivid, saturated blue you can put in a fountain pen. It's a shade that seems to leap off the page, with an intensity that rivals highlighter pens. In a world of subdued, professional blues, Baystate Blue stands out as a rebel—bold, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore. On white paper, it appears almost neon, with a slight purple undertone that adds depth.

This is not a subtle ink. If you're looking for a conservative blue for signing documents, this might not be your first choice. But if you want your writing to make a statement, Baystate Blue delivers in spades. It's the kind of color that makes people ask, 'What ink is that?' every time you write with it.

• Extremely saturated, almost neon blue
• Slight purple undertone adds complexity
• High contrast on white paper

Performance: Flow, Drying, and Water Resistance

In terms of performance, Baystate Blue is a mixed bag. It has a relatively wet flow, which means it can be prone to feathering on cheap paper. On good quality paper, however, it performs beautifully, with minimal bleed-through and a smooth writing experience. The ink dries reasonably quickly, though not as fast as some quick-dry formulas.

One of the standout features of Baystate Blue is its water resistance. Once dry, it is highly resistant to water, making it a great choice for addressing envelopes or any writing that might be exposed to moisture. This is a practical advantage that sets it apart from many other vibrant inks.

• Wet flow—use on quality paper to avoid feathering
• Dries quickly enough for most uses
• Excellent water resistance once dry

The Staining Reputation: Handle with Care

No discussion of Baystate Blue is complete without addressing its staining. This ink is infamous for leaving permanent marks on anything it touches. Pens, fingers, clothing, and even ceramic sinks are all at risk. The staining is not just a rumor; it's a well-documented phenomenon that has earned Baystate Blue a fearsome reputation.

The culprit is the dye used in the ink, which is designed to be permanent. While this makes for excellent water resistance, it also means that any spill or accident can be catastrophic. If you're using Baystate Blue, it's wise to dedicate a pen to it and avoid using your best attire while inking. You can mitigate some staining with diligent cleaning, but be prepared for some permanent reminders.

• Dedicate a specific pen to Baystate Blue
• Wear old clothes or an apron when filling
• Clean spills immediately—but expect some staining

The 4.5 oz Bottle: Value and Practicality

Noodler's offers Baystate Blue in a 4.5 oz (135 ml) bottle, which is a generous amount for any ink enthusiast. This size is particularly appealing for those who have fallen in love with the color and want a long-term supply. The bottle itself is simple but functional, with a wide mouth that makes filling pens easy.

Given the intensity of the ink, a little goes a long way. Even with regular use, a 4.5 oz bottle can last for years. This makes it an excellent value for the price, especially when compared to smaller bottles from other brands. If you're considering making Baystate Blue your signature ink, the 4.5 oz size is the way to go.

• 135 ml of ink—ample supply for years
• Wide mouth for easy pen filling
• Great value for a legendary ink

Compatible Pens and Cleaning Tips

Because of its staining properties, it's crucial to choose the right pen for Baystate Blue. Many users recommend using a pen that is easy to disassemble and clean thoroughly. Acrylic pens, like the Noodler's Konrad series, are popular choices because they can be fully disassembled and soaked. The Noodler's Konrad Flex pens, such as the 14055 Ivory Darkness Konrad Flex or the 14087 Jersey Devil Acrylic Konrad, are excellent options for those who want a reliable pen that can handle this demanding ink.

When it comes to cleaning, patience is key. Baystate Blue can linger in pens even after multiple flushes. Using a pen flush solution or a diluted ammonia solution can help. However, be aware that some staining of the feed or converter may be permanent. It's best to accept that a pen dedicated to Baystate Blue will likely carry a faint blue tint forever.

• Choose a pen that can be fully disassembled
• Use pen flush or ammonia solution for cleaning
• Accept that some staining is inevitable

Baystate Blue vs. Other Noodler's Blues

Noodler's offers a wide range of blue inks, each with its own personality. For example, 19039 Green Marine is a teal-leaning blue that is more subdued, while 19015 Standard Green is a classic green. If you're looking for a more traditional blue, you might consider 19043 Concord Bream, which is a softer, more muted shade. But none of these match the sheer intensity of Baystate Blue.

Baystate Blue is unique in its extreme saturation and permanence. It's not for everyone, but for those who appreciate its boldness, there's no substitute. The decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences—do you want an ink that whispers or one that shouts?

• Baystate Blue is the most saturated of Noodler's blues
• Other blues like Concord Bream offer a softer alternative
• Choose based on your desired level of boldness

Baystate Blue is a legendary ink that lives up to its reputation. Its vibrant color and water resistance make it a favorite among enthusiasts, but its staining properties require careful handling. If you're ready to embrace the challenge, the 4.5 oz bottle offers excellent value and a long-lasting supply. For those who want to experience this iconic blue, consider pairing it with a dedicated pen like the Noodler's Konrad Flex to make the most of this remarkable ink.