The 6 Best Paint Markers for Artists in 2024

Loved by artists, crafters, muralists, and DIYers alike, paint markers are a versatile and essential tool that has broadened the possibilities in art and crafts. Paint markers serve multiple purposes, from adding details on canvas to refreshing the look of clothes and furniture, and even creating amazing murals. Far from being just another writing supply, paint markers have quickly become the preferred medium of many artists and crafters and, since they’re so easy to use, they’re a great medium for beginners and pros alike.

In this article, we’re going to explore the wide range of uses for paint markers and learn about the different types of paint markers available in the market. Additionally, we’ll guide you through the key considerations you’ll have to make when choosing the best paint markers for your specific needs.

So, whether you’re a seasoned artist looking to expand your toolkit or a beginner interested in diving into the world of paint markers, this article is your ultimate guide. Let’s get started!

The Anatomy of a Paint Marker

Before diving into our curated selection of paint markers, let’s learn a bit more about them:

The Nib

The nib or tip of thе markеr is crucial for determining the line width and the overall quality of the application. Nibs comе in various shapеs and sizеs, from finе tips for intricatе work to broad chisеl tips for filling in largеr arеas. Some high-end markers еvеn offеr interchangeable nibs, providing grеatеr flеxibility in your projects.

The Barrеl

Thе barrel is the body of thе marker whеrе thе paint for the ink reservoir is stored. Barrеls can be made from various materials, including plastic and mеtal. A translucеnt barrеl is oftеn handy, as it lеts you sее how much paint is lеft. Some markers also have refillable barrels, which is an еco-friеndly option.

The Cap

Thе cap sеrvіs to protect the nib and kееp thе paint from drying out whеn thе markеr is not in usе. Always make sure the cap is securely fitted; a loosе cap can result in a driеd-out markеr. Some caps come with clips for easy storage, while others might have dеsign features that prevent the marker from rolling off a table.

The Internal Valve

Thе intеrnal valvе rеgulatеs thе flow of paint from thе barrеl to thе nib. In somе markеrs, you nееd to shakе or prеss thе nib to activatе thе valvе and gеt thе paint flowing. The quality of the internal valve is crucial: a poor valvе can lеad to inconsistеnt paint flow or lеakagе.

Types of Paint Markers

Oil-based Markers

Oil-based markers are the most resistant of all, they’re perfect to paint over any surface, be it glass, metal, or plastic. They are waterproof and fade-resistant which makes them perform for those outdoor projects, window art, signage, car customization, etc.

They also might take longer to dry and be very hard to remove without chemicals, plus, some brands might emit fumes so make sure to use them in well-ventilated areas

Water-based Markers (Acrylic)

Water-based paint markers are not like the typical markers we’re used to, since although they are water-based, the main ingredient is also acrylic paint. These markers are great for drawing on paper, cardstock, wood, and any rough surface. Since they’re water-based, they can be easily removed with water, plus they are prone to scratching and other damage when painted on glass or metal.

Though not as durable or weatherproof as oil-based markers, paint markers have a much larger variety and color range which makes them popular among both artists and crafters.

How to Choose the Best Paint Markers

When looking for paint markers, the first question you have to ask yourself is “What am I going to use these markers for?”

Depending on the project you’re going to make, you might have different needs. Muralismight calls for mop and jumbo brushes, card making might only need fine or bullet paint markers, some projects might need to be water or weatherproof, some might need to be easy to clean after, etc.

The following criteria will help you decide which marker is best for you. However, having a clear idea of your project will make the choosing process much easier.

Nib Type

The type of nib or tip you choose will significantly affect your work. The right nib can make a process much easier, faster, and cheaper so choose carefully from the list below:

• Fine Tips: Ideal for intricate details and fine lines. Artists who specialize in miniature painting or detailed illustrations may prefer fine-tipped markers.

• Broad Tips: Great for filling in larger areas or creating bold strokes. These are often used in sign-making or large-scale art projects. You can find broad tips up to 7cm.

• Chisel Tips: These provide the versatility of both fine and broad strokes and are popular in calligraphy and hand-lettering.
• Mop or Drip Tips: As their name says, they drip. With a bit of pressure, the soft tip will overflow with ink and leave some interesting drip lines. Great for graffiti-style lettering, expressive drawings, large area coverage, doodling, and other fun projects.

Color Range

Paint markers depending on what they’re based on have a quite limited color range. Some brands do have a wider color range but they can be very very expensive. If your project is something straightforward a set of basic colors might be enough, however for those more complex projects a larger set or a bigger color range will be needed. Brands like Posca or Artistro have wide color ranges, and brands like Sharpie on the other end, and I mean Sharpie paint markers might not have that much of a color variety so choose carefully.

Remember that you can always get separated units at your preferred craft store, but they’ll be slightly more expensive than getting a set, You can also look for empty refillable bottles and use your own paint as a base or get a refill from the brand.

Ink Quality

Higher-quality markers will provide solid, opaque colors that stand out on any surface, the application will be smooth and the paint will dry without cracking or streaking. Lower-quality markers might require multiple layers for the same effect and might offer end results where the paint appears patchy or dirty or even dries a different color.

Price

When talking about price, paint markers can be very expensive and very affordable depending on the brand, quantity, and color variety they offer.

There are affordable markers available that offer decent quality, suitable for casual or practice work. Brands like Posca offer a balance between quality and price, suitable for both hobbyists and professionals, but if you’re looking for the best quality and are willing to invest, high-end options like Molotow or Montana offer exceptional ink quality and durability.

Best Paint Markers

1. Best Paint Markers Overall — Uni-Posca Paint Marker Pens.
2. Second Best Paint Markers  — Liquitex Professional Paint Marker Set.
3. Best Jumbo Paint Markers — Artistro JumboPaint Markers.
4. Best Skin Tone Paint Markers — Tooli Art Acrylic Paint Set.
5. Best Oil-Based Paint Markers — Sharpie Paint Pens.
6. Best Extra Broad Paint marker — Montana Cans 50mm Paint Marker

1. Best Paint Markers Overall — Uni-Posca Paint Marker Pens.

Selection Criteria

• Type of Paint: Water-based.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Tip Size and Shape: Extra fine point Tip.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Color Range: 65 Colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $28.27
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Uni-Posca Paint Marker Pens.

Posca is one of the most popular paint markers, well-known by the artistic community due to its quality and color range. These markers are water-based, they have good ink flow and opacity and since they’re water-based, they are amazing for card making, illustration, and miniature painting.

They are one of the few brands that offer consistent quality for a fair price. They also have a wide variety of tips (nine different sizes) which are great for different projects and styles. Posca markers usually come in sets and color availability might vary depending on nib type. They also sell replacements for the tips and the tip included can be removed and switched when one side fryes.

Pros

• Vibrant colors.
• Quick drying.
• Water-based.

Cons

• Limited palette.
• Not refillable.

2. Second Best Paint Markers  — Liquitex Professional Paint Marker Set.

Selection Criteria

• Type of Paint: Acrylic Based
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Tip Size and Shape: Chisel
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Color Range: 50 Colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $32.21.
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Liquitex Professional Paint Marker Set.

Liquitex paint markers, just like their paints, are on the professional side of the paint markers spectrum, and because of that, they are also more expensive and slightly harder to find.

In contrast to other brands, Liquitex markers are highly light-fast and have a satin finish instead of a mate one. They are also very opaque and are made with fine art pigment just like their paints which makes them archival.

Liquitex sells bullet, fine, chisel, and broad nib replacements and despite being water soluble when wet, they become water-resistant after drying.

Pros.

• High pigmentation.
• Professional quality.
• Wide tip range.

Cons

• Expensive.
• Strong smell.

 

3. Best Jumbo Paint Markers — Artistro Jumbo Paint Markers.

Selection Criteria

• Type of Paint: Water Based.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Tip Size and Shape: Jumbo Tip.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Color Range: 48 Colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $29.99.
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Artistro Jumbo Paint Markers.

If you’re looking for affordable jumbo markers for graffiti art, muralism, and signage. Since these markers are refillable, they are the perfect option for those who need to paint a lot. The tips are replaceable and Artistro sells packs of tips for a very affordable price.

These paints are water-based, however, once they dry the water evaporates leaving a water-resistant acrylic finish, making it great for indoor and outdoor work. They might not be as lightfast as other professional options, however, you can always seal them with a UV-resistant spray or another protective coating.

Pros

• Broad strokes.
• Long-lasting.
• Easy grip.

Cons

• Bulky.
• Limited precision.

 

4. Best Skin Tone Paint Markers — Tooli Art Acrylic Paint Set.

Selection Criteria

• Type of Paint: Water-based.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Tip Size and Shape: Medium Tip.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Color Range: 260 Colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $40.99.
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Tooli Art Acrylic Paint Set.

Tooli is a brand that has pleasantly surprised the artistic community the past few years. They came in strong with their collection of markers with an impressive range of 260 colors and a wide tip variety.

This skin tone set includes all the shades you need to achieve different skin tone ranges. It also includes colors for the different undertones the skin has that can also be used as a muted color palette for other works.

These markers are very affordable, being about $1 per piece, which makes them an excellent budget option too.

Pros

• Skin-tone variety.
• Versatile tips.
• Good coverage.

Cons

• Can bleed.
• Limited availability.

 

5. Best Oil-Based Paint Markers — Sharpie Paint Pens.

Selection Criteria

• Type of Paint: Oil Based.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Tip Size and Shape: Fine and Medium.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Color Range: 78 Colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $78.75.
  • Our Score: 8/10

About the Sharpie Paint Pens.

We all know Sharpie and their permanent markers, however, the less-known oil-based paint marker sets from the brand are an incredible addition to any artist or crafter’s toolkit. They’re versatile and suitable for a variety of surfaces including glass, wood, metal, and even fabric. Unlike regular Sharpie markers, which are water-based, the oil-based paint pens provide a thicker, more vibrant layer of color that is also water-resistant. They’re available in a range of colors and tip sizes, allowing for both broad strokes and fine lines. Ideal for arts and crafts, DIY projects, or even industrial applications.

Pros

• Permanent ink.
• Fine tips.
• Quick drying.

Cons

• Oil-based.
• Strong smell.
• Not water-soluble.

 

6. Best Extra Broad Paint marker — Montana Cans 50mm Paint Marker

Selection Criteria

• Type of Paint: Water Based.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Tip Size and Shape: Extra Broad.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Color Range: 214 Colors
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Price: $10.25
  • Our Score: 8/10

About the Montana Montana Cans

One of the best paint markers brands you’ll be able to find is Montana Cans, originally a spray paint exclusive brand, Montana has come with some options for those who like a bit more of control. Sadly, due to them being one of the best out there, the prices are also on the expensive side.

Thankfully they do sell empty paint markers even of their broadest tips, so if you’re looking for a broad marker be it for doodling, graffiti art, or filling large areas then this affordable option might be the way to go.

Pros

• Ultra-broad tip.
• High coverage.
• Durable.

Cons

• Expensive.
• Bulky

 

Paint Markers FAQ

• Can paint markers be used outdoors?

Yes, but not all paint markers. Oil-based paint markers can be used outdoors and resist different weather conditions but water-based paint markers will need a protective coat if you plan on using them for outdoor projects.

• Are paint markers washable?

Water-based paint markers are washable to some extent, however, we do not recommend staining fabric that is not meant to be painted with any paint marker.

• How to fix a dried-out paint marker?

– Shake well to mix pigment and solvent

– Unclog the tip by soaking in warm water or rubbing alcohol

– Prime the marker by pressing the tip down on scrap paper

– Reverse the tip if it’s reversible

– Add a few drops of solvent into the marker reservoir

– Recap the pen tightly and shake vigorously