Art Markers: What Beginners Need to Know
Art markers are becoming popular tools for creativity enthusiasts — beginners and professional artists alike.
These art tools are not only sought after for their vibrant set of colors, but they come in various types of shapes and sizes for unique effects.
Lucky you, this guide for beginners covers everything about art markers, such as the following:
- Understanding different types of markers
- What inks are used for art markers
- Artistic techniques to try and many more!
What is an art marker?
Art markers are a type of pen that is specifically made for artistic purposes. Unlike standard pens or markers, these tools have rich and pigmented ink that come in various sets of colors.
The variety of colors, tip sizes, and shapes work great for coloring, sketching, shading, and creating detailed and large projects.
Best art markers in the market are characterized by their blend-ability and smooth gradients of color.
Moreover, art markers are not only exciting for beginners to try — these art tools are extremely popular among illustrators, graphic designers, and even graffiti artists.
What’s more interesting, some specialized versions like acrylic art markers or body art markers are now available for specific projects on canvas, skin, or fabric.
Do art markers bleed?
Yes, art markers can bleed. However, this depends on several factors such as paper type and ink.
For context, marker bleeding refers to the pen ink seeping through the paper or spreading beyond the intended area.
Thin or poor-quality paper is more prone to bleeding because it cannot absorb the ink properly.
Good art markers often have non-bleedthrough features, which is convenient for most users.
To prevent marker bleeding, opt for paper that is thicker and specifically made for marker use, such as art alternative marker paper pads.
Marker papers are smooth and coated to prevent ink from soaking through.
What are the different types of markers in art?
There are several types of art markers that offer unique advantages and purposes. Here’s a list of marker types for your reference:
| Type | Characteristics | Things to Consider | Marker Variety |
| Alcohol-based | Highly pigmented; with vibrant, blendable colors | May have a strong odor and can bleed through thin paper | Graffiti art markers are often alcohol-based for quick drying and durability. |
| Water-based | Use water-soluble ink; great choice for blending and creating watercolor effects | Takes longer to dry than alcohol-based markers | Acrylic art markers fall under this category and are best suited for painting on non-porous surfaces like glass or plastic. |
| Oil-based | Provide durable and opaque colors; ideal for use on surfaces such as metal, stone, or glass | Thicker ink may not be ideal for detailed work with intricate patterns | Paint markers are typically oil-based and are known for their water resistance. |
| Permanent | Great for long-lasting projects | Can be challenging to remove from most surfaces | Body art markers use ink that adheres to a wide range of surfaces and resists fading. |
How do you use art markers?
Art markers are versatile tools that can be used in various ways depending on your creative needs. Here are some common methods:
Method #1: Blending
This method involves using two or more markers to blend shades smoothly.
Tip: Use blending markers or a colorless blender to merge colors smoothly.
By blending two or more colors, you create a more polished look for your design or pattern.
Recommended Product: Kaywin Single-Tip Brush Marker
Method #2: Layering
Start by applying lighter shades and gradually add darker tones to build up depth and dimension.
This method enhances realism and allows for smooth transitions between colors in your artwork.
Method #3: Detailing
Add fine details by using fine-tip markers or the narrow edge of dual-tipped markers to draw intricate lines, outlines, or small patterns.
These marker tips are ideal for adding texture, detail, or accents to make your artwork pop with fine patterns.
Recommended Product: Single-Tip Fineliner (with Spring)
Method #4: Creating Gradients
Gradients can be achieved by slowly fading one color into another using light strokes or by using the chisel tip for broader areas.
This technique is especially useful for shading objects or adding visual depth to illustrations.
Method #5: Highlighting and Creating Shadows
To achieve highlights and shadows, use a white or light-colored marker to highlight certain areas and a darker shade for shadows.
This adds a three-dimensional effect to flat drawings and gives more depth and realism.
Best Ways to Keep Your Art Markers Safe and Functional
Art markers are creative investments – proper care will help these tools in excellent condition for longer use.
To prevent their quality and maintain their performance, consider these tips to help you protect your art markers from damage and keep them functioning smoothly.
Tip #1: Store Markers Horizontally
For even ink distribution, store your art markers horizontally rather than vertically. This prevents one side of the marker from drying out and keeps dual-tipped markers in optimal working condition.
Tip #2: Cap Markers Tightly After Use
After each use, always cap your art markers securely to prevent the ink from drying out. Air exposure can quickly lead to ink evaporation.
Tip #3: Avoid Direct Sunlight
Keep your markers away from direct sunlight or heat because high temperatures can cause the ink to evaporate or dry out prematurely. Store your markers in a cool, dry place to extend their shelf life.
Tip #4: Use the Right Paper
Using smooth, marker-friendly paper helps preserve your markers by reducing wear on the tips. Coarser papers can damage the tips over time, leading to fraying and reduced precision.
Tip #5: Clean the Tips Regularly
Wipe off any excess ink or debris that may accumulate on the marker tips. Cleaning them occasionally ensures smooth ink flow and prevents color contamination when switching between hues.
Tip #6: Refill or Replace Ink
If your markers are refillable, keep an eye on the ink level and refill as needed.
For non-refillable markers, replace them when the ink runs low to avoid scratchy strokes and maintain the quality of your artwork.
Where to Find Art Marker Pen Manufacturers
When looking for high-quality art markers, it’s important to choose reputable pen manufacturing companies.
One of the most reliable sources is Kaywin, a leading pen manufacturer known for producing a wide range of markers, including permanent art markers and water-soluble art marker sets.
You can find both wholesale pens and customized options, which allow you to order in bulk with your own logo. They also offer durable markers ideal for professional artists and beginners alike.
