Features to Look for in the Best Colored Markers
There are tons of options available on the market, so it's important to take the time to choose a colored marker with specific features that meet your needs. Some color markers offer double tips or ergonomic designs for usability and comfort. Of course, in addition to choosing an appropriately sized point or tip to give your project the best results, you'll also want a wealth of color options for dramatic variation. Consider these features when you're shopping for the best color markers for your specific artistic goals.
Availability of Colors
The availability of color options isn't the only factor to consider. The richness of the color may also be a determining factor. Alcohol-based markers tend to leave more vibrant colors than water-based markers.
The color marker set offers a variety of color choices, allowing you to choose specific colors for your art, design, and DIY projects. Some sets are only available in primary colors, while others are available in bright neon or soft pastels. Still, other sets include metallic markers in shades of gold, silver, and bronze.
Vitality of Color
Color markers contain inks consisting of pigments or dyes suspended in water or alcohol. When the water or alcohol evaporates, the colored pigments remain on the surface. Alcohol-based color markers tend to produce more vibrant results than water-based color markers.
Some marker sets offer more vibrant color options than others. For example, one set might have particularly bright neon colors, while another set offers muted pastels or muted tones. Your choice may depend on the nature of the art, design and DIY projects you plan to complete.
Consistency and Durability
When you choose a colored marker for your project, consider the uniformity of the color result and the long-lasting quality of the color you leave behind. The color pigments of alcohol-based markers are permanent and will not fade. In contrast, the color left by water-based markers is water-soluble and therefore not permanent. Additionally, alcohol-based color markers produce more even, streak-free color results than water-based markers.
Water-based colored markers are better for kids to use at school or at home because they don't leave permanent marks. You can wash off the color left by water-based markers on most surfaces.
On the other hand, you may want the color of an alcohol-based marker to last long to preserve the look of your or your child's projects: petroglyphs, identifying tools and equipment, and creating unique artwork are three possible examples.
