How to Restore a Sharpie Marker

This trick will work on any color Sharpie.

Sharpie brand permanent markers will eventually run out of ink with multiple uses, but sometimes you just forget to put the cap back on and the tips can dry out prematurely. Before you throw your marker away, try a technique that can revive your Sharpie's performance, whether you're using a fine or ultra-fine point. Not only will this extend the life of your Sharpie but it will also save you money.

Things You'll Need

• Rubbing alcohol
• Shallow dish

Instructions

1. Open your Sharpie marker by removing the cap or clicking the button on the retractable tip. Test the tip on a piece of paper to make sure it is dry.

2. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into a shallow dish. It is not recommended that you use the cap on your bottle of alcohol.

3. Place the tip of the Sharpie in the rubbing alcohol and allow it to remain until you can see a trace amount of ink seep out. The tip itself is what is being re-moistened and there is usually ink still left in the marker. If you do not see any ink then it's possible the marker is completely spent.

4. Replace the cap and leave it alone for about a half hour. Storing the Sharpie vertically with the cap down will also help the ink saturate the re-moistened tip.

5. 

   Your restored tip is ready for use.

   Remove the cap or extend the tip of your Sharpie and draw with it. You should see a clean line.

Tips & Warnings

• These steps can work on almost any kind of marker. For non-permanent ink markers, try using warm water instead of rubbing alcohol.

• Always supervise young children around the use of rubbing alcohol.