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Nothing Galling Here! The Science of Oak Gall Ink

Nothing Galling Here! The Science of Oak Gall Ink

Iron, or oak gall, ink was the standard ink used for centuries, but it’s so acidic that it often eats through paper, especially when it’s exposed to light. Join the MSU Libraries and explore the science of this ink! You will have a chance to dissect an oak gall and learn about the wasp that makes the gall, peek through a microscope to explore the damage oak gall ink can cause, use goose feather quills to write with the ink, and pick up a recipe to make ink at home!

Presented by:

  • Jodi Coalter, Life Sciences Librarian, MSU Libraries
  • Garrett Sumner, Conservation Librarian, MSU Libraries
  • Tad Boehmer, Rare Books Librarian, MSU Libraries

For parking information visit http://maps.msu.edu/interactive.
If you have questions about accessibility or need to request accommodations, please email lib.dl.accessibility@msu.edu.

Date:
Saturday, April 5, 2025
Time:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Time Zone:
Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
Categories:
  Science Festival