A phase change ink composition including (a) an ink vehicle; (b) a dispersing agent; (c) a colorant; and (d) organic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, inorganic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, or a combination of organic and inorganic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, wherein the organic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, the inorganic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, or a combination thereof, are encapsulated or functionalized to enhance compatibility with the ink vehicle; and wherein the colorant and the organic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, the inorganic fiber shaped nanowhiskers, or combination of organic and inorganic fiber shaped nanowhiskers are substantially resistant to aggregation and settling in the ink vehicle.