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Permanent Marker Vs. Normal Marker

08th Feb 2023

What to Know About Permanent Marker Pens

Permanent markers have a variety of applications. They are ideal for art projects and even regular home use. 

They come in a wide range of colors and sizes. 

While some may not work well on certain surfaces, most of them will work on almost everything.

These markers are different from normal markers as they have permanent ink that is water-resistant and lasts for a long time. 

For example, if you want to create a permanent mark, you can use a permanent marker instead of a normal marker. 

No matter what type of marker pen you want, you will find everything at Kaywin. We manufacture and supply a wide variety of color pens, including permanent marker sets and normal markers. 

Key Takeaway

The choice between permanent and normal markers depends on the intended use and desired longevity of the markings. While normal markers offer versatility and easy erasability, permanent markers provide lasting and durable markings suitable for applications requiring longevity and resistance to fading or smudging. Understanding their differences ensures selecting the most appropriate tool for the task at hand.

What Ink Do Permanent Markers Have?

There are three main elements to a permanent marker: ink, colorant, and carrier. 

The ink is the substance that produces the line. 

On the other hand, the colorant is the pigment that gives the marker its color. 

Meanwhile, the carrier is a non-polar solvent that helps the ink adhere to the paper.

Permanent Marker vs Normal Marker

If you’re trying to decide between a permanent marker and a normal marker, you’re likely wondering which one offers more benefits. 

Both are popular art tools, but there are some significant differences between the two.

Long-Lasting Mark

A permanent marker is a type of marker pen that combines pigments and solvents to produce a durable, long-lasting mark on a variety of surfaces. It is also water-resistant.

Some are even non-toxic. On the other hand, a normal marker doesn’t contain permanent ink. It can easily be wiped off and doesn’t stay for a long time on a surface. 

Considering that markers leave long-lasting and durable marks on a variety of surfaces, I’m going to recommend here a way to remove markers from whiteboards (metal surfaces).

Quick Drying Time

Permanent markers are essentially cylindrical tubes with a porous sponge-like material inside. 

The ink resin saturates the sponge and sticks to the paper when the solvent evaporates. 

This makes the marker a quick-drying, smudge-free alternative to other types of writing pens. 

However, an ordinary marker takes more time to dry. 

Doesn’t Bleed Through

While a permanent marker can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, it does have some limitations. 

For instance, its colorant isn’t water-soluble, meaning it won’t bleed through ordinary paper. 

An ordinary marker is water-soluble and can easily bleed through paper. 

Tip Size

Another major difference between a permanent marker and a regular marker is the tip size. 

While permanent markers are available in different shapes and sizes, the most popular is a bullet tip. 

These tips are best for achieving thin lines.

Protection

A permanent marker is a tool that lets you create a clean, crisp line with high precision. 

While these markers are durable and long-lasting, you must make sure to keep them properly protected and hydrated. 

To do this, dip the tip in warm water. On the other hand, ordinary markers don’t need much protection. 

Can Be Used on a Variety of Surfaces

A permanent marker is a type of ink used to write on hard, non-porous surfaces such as glass, metal, wood, concrete, and more. 

The marker is also known for its novelty effects, as well as its ability to provide a long-lasting writing surface. 

These markers are considered non-toxic and safe to use if used properly.

Water-Soluble

Permanent markers are not water-soluble. That is because the colorant does not dissolve in water. 

Instead, they bind to the surface through van der Waals forces. They are often used for several different purposes. 

These include writing, sketching, drawing, tracing, and even creating temporary markings on the fabric.

Types of Permanent Markers

1. Oil-Based Permanent Markers

Oil-based permanent markers use ink that contains oil as a base, providing waterproof and fade-resistant properties. 

These markers are suitable for writing on various surfaces, including plastic, metal, and glass. 

They offer long-lasting results and are often favored for outdoor use or in environments where durability is essential. 

However, they may require longer drying times and can emit strong odors.

2. Alcohol-Based Permanent Markers

Alcohol-based permanent markers use ink that contains alcohol as a solvent, allowing for quick drying and smudge-resistant results. 

These markers are commonly used for artistic applications, such as drawing, coloring, and illustration. 

They provide vibrant colors and are easy to blend, making them popular among artists and designers. 

However, they may bleed through certain types of paper and are not suitable for use on non-porous surfaces.

3. Water-Based Permanent Markers

Water-based permanent markers use ink that is water-soluble when wet but becomes permanent once dry. 

These markers are versatile and suitable for various applications, including writing, labeling, and crafting. 

They offer quick drying times and are less likely to bleed through paper. 

Additionally, they are safer to use and emit fewer fumes compared to oil-based or alcohol-based markers.

4. Acrylic-Based Permanent Markers

Acrylic-based permanent markers use ink that contains acrylic resins, providing a durable and waterproof finish once dry. 

These markers are commonly used for artistic purposes, such as painting, detailing, and decorating. 

They adhere well to a wide range of surfaces, including wood, canvas, and ceramics. 

Acrylic-based markers offer opaque colors and excellent coverage but may require priming on certain surfaces.

5. Solvent-Based Permanent Markers

Solvent-based permanent markers use ink that contains strong solvents, allowing for quick drying and permanent adhesion to surfaces. [1]

These markers are often used for industrial applications, such as labeling, marking, and signage. They offer high visibility and durability, even in harsh environments. 

However, they may emit strong odors and require proper ventilation when used indoors.

Where Permanent Markers Are Often Used

Permanent markers find extensive use across various domains due to their durability and versatility. Here are some common places where they are often used:

1. Office and Business Settings

In offices, permanent markers are used for labeling files, writing on whiteboards during meetings, and creating signage for notices or directions.

2. Art and Craft Projects

Artists and crafters utilize permanent markers for drawing, coloring, and creating intricate designs on various surfaces like paper, canvas, wood, and fabric.

3. Industrial Environments

In industrial settings, permanent markers are employed for marking components, inventory, and equipment. They provide long-lasting identification, even in harsh environments.

4. Educational Institutions

Teachers use permanent markers for creating charts, diagrams, and illustrations during lessons. Students use them for labeling notebooks, making posters, and highlighting important information. [1]

5. Home Organization

At home, permanent markers come in handy for labeling containers, organizing items in storage spaces, and marking household tools for easy identification.

6. Construction and Manufacturing

In construction and manufacturing industries, permanent markers are essential for marking measurements, labeling materials, and writing on surfaces like metal, plastic, and concrete.

7. DIY Projects

DIY enthusiasts use permanent markers for a wide range of projects, including upcycling furniture, decorating items, and personalizing gifts.

8. Gardening and Horticulture

Permanent markers are useful in gardening for labeling plants, seedlings, and pots. They withstand outdoor conditions and ensure long-term plant identification.

9. Medical and Laboratory Settings

In medical and laboratory environments, permanent markers are used for labeling specimens, slides, and laboratory equipment. 

They provide clear and lasting identification for proper organization and tracking.

10. Outdoor Activities

During outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and sports events, permanent markers are utilized for marking trails, labeling gear, and creating signs or banners.

Black Permanent Markers: The Most Common in the Market

Black permanent markers are indispensable tools for various tasks. Their rich, deep ink provides exceptional permanence on a wide range of surfaces. 

Whether you’re labeling important documents, creating vivid artwork, or organizing your workspace, these markers are your trusty companions.

The versatility of black permanent markers knows no bounds. 

They’re perfect for labeling storage boxes, making vibrant signs, or adding the final touch to your artistic masterpiece. 

The fine tips allow for precise detailing, while broader tips ensure bold, legible text.

In offices, schools, and homes, these markers are the go-to choice for professionals and creative minds alike. 

Their waterproof and fade-resistant qualities guarantee long-lasting results, whether indoors or outdoors.

Article Sources
We at Kaywin pride ourselves on utilizing exclusively high-quality sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, to substantiate the facts presented in our articles. Our unwavering dedication to precision and dependability guarantees that our readers receive thoroughly researched information they can rely on.