Sherwin-Williams® Inkwell (SW 6992) Kitchen Cabinets – Shaker, Slim Shaker, Raised, Slab

Sherwin-Williams Inkwell SW6992 kitchen cabinets

Specs

  • Sherwin Williams Inkwell (SW 6992) finish
  • Built to order & customizable – tailored to fit your style and layout
  • Factory Direct Pricing - No dealer markups, just quality cabinetry straight to your home.
  • Premium construction – all-plywood boxes and solid wood face frames
  • Soft close features – full-extension drawers and doors for smooth, quiet use
  • Fully assembled at a fair, affordable price – ready for installation without hassle

Sherwin-Williams® Inkwell (SW 6992) is a deep blue-black that brings dramatic contrast and architectural sophistication to kitchen cabinetry. Its inky depth feels bold and modern, yet more nuanced than a true black, making it a refined choice for statement kitchens.

Inkwell kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with brushed brass, matte black, or polished nickel hardware, along with white quartz, marble, and warm natural wood flooring. This Sherwin-Williams color works especially well in modern, transitional, and contemporary kitchens where depth and contrast are used intentionally.

Double Edge Shaker

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$4,639

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Avalon Raised Panel

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$4,639

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Shaker Style Cabinet Door A vector representation of a Stonecreek Clary Sage style door with separate drawer front and door.

Concord Shaker

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$4,449

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Slim Shaker Style Cabinet Door A vector representation of a thin-frame Shaker door in Creme.

Contour Slim Shaker

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$5,549

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More about Inkwell (SW 6992)

Inkwell vs. Tricorn Black (SW 6258):
Tricorn Black is a true, neutral black with no visible undertones. Inkwell is technically a blue-black, revealing its navy undertones in natural light while appearing nearly black in dimmer spaces. Inkwell is often chosen when black feels too stark or flat.

Inkwell vs. Naval (SW 6244):
Naval is a clear, saturated navy blue that reads distinctly blue in all lighting. Inkwell is significantly darker and closer to black, with blue undertones that appear more subtly. Inkwell works better for moody, architectural kitchens where depth is the goal.

Inkwell vs. Iron Ore (SW 7069):
Iron Ore is a warm charcoal gray with brown undertones, while Inkwell reads cooler and more saturated. Inkwell delivers a sharper, more dramatic contrast, especially against light countertops and reflective finishes.

Transitional kitchen design with Sherwin-Williams Inkwell SW6992 cabinets

Blue-Black Depth with Refined, Dramatic Presence

Sherwin-Williams® Inkwell (SW 6992) kitchen cabinets deliver a deep, moody blue-black that feels rich, tailored, and intentionally dramatic. This color offers the impact of near-black cabinetry while revealing subtle navy undertones in brighter light. Inkwell is often chosen by homeowners who want bold contrast with more nuance than a true black.

The Undertones of Inkwell

Inkwell is technically a very dark navy with blue undertones beneath its near-black surface. In strong natural light, the blue notes become more visible, adding depth and sophistication. In dimmer or artificial lighting, the color reads almost black, creating a dramatic, enveloping effect.

Technical Details

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 4

With an LRV of 4, Inkwell absorbs nearly all available light. This makes it best suited for well-lit kitchens or as a statement color balanced by lighter surrounding finishes.

Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design

Soft & Warm Whites

  • Alabaster (SW 7008) softens Inkwell’s depth and highlights its subtle blue undertones. This pairing creates bold contrast without harshness. It works especially well in transitional kitchens.
  • Greek Villa (SW 7551) introduces warmth and balance alongside Inkwell’s darkness. Together, they feel refined and approachable. This combination suits classic and farmhouse-inspired spaces.

Cool Neutrals & Grays

  • Repose Gray (SW 7015) provides lighter contrast while maintaining a cool palette. The pairing feels modern and cohesive. It works well in open kitchens.
  • Dorian Gray (SW 7017) adds warmth and structure alongside Inkwell. This combination creates depth without visual clutter. It suits transitional designs.

Metallics & Hardware

  • Brushed brass or champagne bronze hardware enhances Inkwell’s richness and adds warmth. These finishes bring out the color’s depth and feel elevated. They work especially well in classic and transitional kitchens.
  • Matte black or polished chrome hardware creates a sleek, modern look. This pairing emphasizes contrast and structure. It suits contemporary designs.

Countertop Pairings

  • White quartz or marble countertops brighten Inkwell and keep the space from feeling heavy. Subtle veining adds elegance and movement. This pairing is bold yet timeless.
  • Light gray or concrete-look surfaces reinforce the color’s modern character. These materials add texture without competing visually.

Flooring Recommendations

  • Light oak or pale hardwood flooring balances Inkwell’s darkness with warmth. The wood grain adds texture and approachability. This pairing feels intentional and refined.
  • Large-format porcelain or stone-look tile supports durability and clean lines. These floors complement modern kitchens well.

Applications in Cabinetry

  • Kitchen islands or lower cabinets finished in Inkwell create a striking focal point. Paired with lighter perimeter cabinets, the contrast feels dramatic yet balanced.
  • Full kitchen cabinetry in Inkwell delivers a bold, enveloping look. With proper lighting, it feels luxurious rather than overpowering.

Kitchen Style Applications

  • Modern kitchens benefit from Inkwell’s clean, architectural depth. The color emphasizes minimal detailing and sharp lines. It feels bold and contemporary.
  • Transitional kitchens use Inkwell to introduce contrast without starkness. Paired with warm materials, it remains approachable.
  • Classic kitchens rely on Inkwell to add richness and formality. The subtle blue undertones elevate traditional elements.

Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style

  • Slab and flat-panel doors highlight Inkwell’s modern edge. Smooth surfaces allow the color’s depth to take center stage. This option suits contemporary kitchens.
  • Shaker and slim shaker doors soften the look while maintaining structure. These profiles work well in transitional designs.

Other Spaces & Design Applications

  • Home offices and built-ins finished in Inkwell feel focused and refined. The color adds visual weight without distraction.
  • Bathroom and laundry cabinetry gain durability and drama from Inkwell’s depth. Adequate lighting keeps these spaces balanced.

Lighting Considerations

Inkwell shifts noticeably with lighting conditions. Natural light reveals its blue undertones, while low light causes it to read nearly black. Balanced lighting preserves its layered character.

Design Tip

Use Inkwell kitchen cabinets when you want near-black cabinetry with added depth and sophistication. Balance with lighter surfaces and warm metals to maintain harmony. This approach delivers a dramatic yet livable design.

Alternative Colors to Consider

Sherwin-Williams Inkwell (SW 6992): FAQs

Is Inkwell blue or black?

Inkwell is a very dark blue-black. It often appears black in low light, but its navy undertones become visible in natural daylight.

Does Inkwell work well on kitchen cabinets?

Yes. Inkwell is a popular choice for both full kitchen cabinetry and statement islands, offering more depth and richness than standard black.

Will Inkwell show fingerprints or wear?

Like most very dark colors, Inkwell can show fingerprints more easily. Matte or satin finishes and thoughtful lighting help minimize this effect.

What countertop colors pair best with Inkwell cabinets?

White marble, light quartz, and soft gray stone surfaces provide the best contrast and keep the kitchen from feeling too heavy.

MORE COLORS

We have over 200 custom colors to choose from

BROWSE COLORS

Disclaimer: Sherwin-Williams® and its color names (e.g., Alabaster SW 7008, Iron Ore SW 7069) are trademarks of The Sherwin-Williams Company. All finishes are applied using genuine Sherwin-Williams® paints. The Sherwin-Williams Company does not sponsor or endorse the products offered by Wholesale Cabinet Supply or Stonecreek Cabinetry.