Expert: julia sherman - 1/13/2004

Question
Can one draw a face on a ceramic doll with ink before putting in Kiln?

Answer
Yes you can. However the ink must be one that can be absorbed into the pores of the bisque. Sumi ink can, octupus ink, buzzard ink etc all have been used for centuries.
Making an ink from black pigment for ceramics is your best bet.As in Seeleys PIgment powders.
There are a number of  ceramic pens that are designed for just what you are talking about. Dick Blick carries just such inks and pens.
Standard ink such as Sharpie may work.As I have seen dolls with ink marks on them from sharpie permanents. Most OTC markers and inks are polymers that have low temperature dissolve and are water based. Those that are alcohol based  seems to be the ones that remain.