About Sharpie Paint Markers
Sharpie has long been a name in permanent scribing, most well-known for the ubiquitous black markers ideal for writing on posters, burned discs and other things you want to leave an indelible mark on. Sharpie paint markers follow in the same tradition but, as the name implies, with paint.
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History
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The original Sharpie marker was introduced in 1964, with the Sharpie Paint marker appearing in 2004. Today more than 200 million Sharpies have been sold, according to the company.
Function
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Sharpie Paint markers are valve-action, permanent, opaque markers. Using a Sharpie Paint marker can be compared to painting a surface with a brush or roller. But because of the design and the solidness of the tip, a Sharpie Paint marker allows you to make smoother, more precise lines and markings.
Like most paint markers, Sharpie Paint markers must be shaken before use.
Types
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Sharpie paint markers come in a variety of tips and colors. From smallest to largest, the sizes are: extra fine, fine, medium, bold (broad) and extra bold (extra broad). For precise tasks, such as lettering and detailing, a finer tip works best. For tasks requiring less control, such as filling in large areas with color or drawing thick, even lines, a broader or bolder tip works better.
In addition to the oil-based Sharpie Paint markers, Sharpie offers Sharpie Poster Paint markers, which are slightly more inexpensive and come in brighter colors.
Benefits
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Sharpie paint markers are useful because they can mark almost any surface. Metal, paper, wood, concrete, fabric, glass -- there is almost nothing a Sharpie paint marker won't show up on. And like a traditional marker, the color will stay truer once applied. For example, while a traditional yellow marker may not show very clearly on a piece of thick, black construction paper, a paint marker will appear more robust and brilliant, as the paint is more opaque and will not soak into the material.
Paint overlays other markings as well (as long as it is dry), allowing you the ability to draw or paint over previous lines.
Unlike some other paint markers, Sharpie Paint Markers are non-toxic and xylene free.
Considerations
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When visiting the store, consider your needs for your project. Have a plan mapped out regarding which colors and which tips you will need to avoid buying unneeded markers or leaving the store without the specific marker you need.
Warning
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Although Sharpie Paint markers are relatively safe, it is best to avoid contact with the paint from the markers. Do not allow the paint to get in your eyes or mouth and avoid inhaling the fumes directly from the marker. Children should be supervised during use. Note that Sharpie Poster Paint markers are safer and easier for children to use than their oil-based counterparts.
Also be aware that marking property that does not belong to you can be considered vandalism. Before choosing a forum for your art, check to make sure the property's owner -- be it an individual or a municipality -- approves of its use as a canvas.
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