Markers or felt-tip pens are one of the most popular writing and drawing instruments. Contrary to popular belief, they are essential in any artist's kit, and knowing how to use them well is an art in itself.

How many types of marker are there?

We all used them before we even learned to write, for colouring and drawing. Although we are primarily interested in their colour, there is useful information to know about felt-tip pens that will have a direct impact on the quality and durability of your creations. That is why we are going to classify them according to their base and tip.

different types of markers at Hartem

Markers according to the base component contained in their ink.

Water-based:their main component is water coloured with a dye. They are odourless, non-toxic and non-flammable, making them safe for young artists. They are gentle on paper, but can bleed through and create watercolour effects when water is added while wet. They dry slowly and are not suitable for other media. They have a long shelf life as they do not dry out easily.
Alcohol-based: these are formulated from alcohol and colourants to create a transparent ink that can be used to create washes and gradients. They dry quickly and are water-resistant. They are suitable for use on a variety of surfaces without smudging. However, they are quite aggressive on paper, as they tend to bleed through. It is therefore recommended to use a specific, sufficiently thick surface. They are toxic and flammable.
Acrylic-based: these are composed of liquid acrylic paint. They are opaque or uniform coverage felt-tip pens, even on black, and are quick-drying. They are suitable for all types of substrates and surfaces and have a long life. They are non-toxic.
Oil-baseed: made from solvents and paint. Their ink is permanent and very versatile, but also highly toxic and has a strong odour. They dry slowly and are suitable for all surfaces, even porous ones.

Felt-tip pens according to their tips:

Brush tip: The brush tip can be made of fine felt or long nylon bristles. Its flexibility allows you to control the stroke and the amount of ink used.
Thick tip: The thick tip is rounded. It is the most common type, as it is easy to use for writing and drawing.
Chamfered tip: The chamfered tip is ideal for underlining and lettering. You can use the thinner part to draw finer lines or press the entire tip onto the paper to create thicker lines.
Medium and fine nibs: These types of nibs are common in ballpoint pens. They can range from 0.4 to 1 mm. Perfect for outlines, details and writing.
Calibrated tips: Very fine tips can be as small as 0.05 mm. They are suitable for technical drawing due to their high precision, but also for line drawing and other details.
Conical or bullet tip: similar to the bevelled tip. It achieves the same effects, but with better control over line variations. It is generally used for broad lines.