Paint Pens vs. Markers: What's the Difference?

If you're an artist, a DIY enthusiast, or someone who loves crafting, you've likely come across both paint pens and markers. At first glance, they may seem similar, but they serve different purposes and have unique benefits. So, what’s the real difference between paint pens and markers? Let's get started and assist you in selecting the ideal tool for your upcoming artistic endeavor.

What Are Paint Pens?

Paint pens are filled with liquid acrylic or oil-based paint and designed to offer smooth, opaque coverage on various surfaces, including canvas, wood, glass, metal, and even stone. Unlike traditional markers, paint pens contain real paint, making them perfect for projects requiring bold and long-lasting color.

Best Features of Paint Pens:

✔ Highly Pigmented: Delivers rich, vibrant colors that pop on any surface.
✔ Permanent & Waterproof: Resistant to smudging and fading once dry.
✔ Works on Multiple Surfaces: Ideal for crafting, rock painting, custom shoes, and more.
✔ Smooth Application: Even flow of paint with no streaking or bleeding.

What Are Markers?

Markers, on the other hand, use ink rather than paint and come in different types, including alcohol-based, water-based, and permanent markers. They are commonly used for drawing, lettering, and everyday writing on paper, cardboard, and some plastics.

Best Features of Markers:

✔ Quick-Drying: Perfect for fast sketching or writing.
✔ Blendable (Alcohol-Based Markers): Great for shading and smooth transitions.
✔ Ideal for Paper & Sketchbooks: Works well for hand-lettering, calligraphy, and journaling.

While markers offer smooth lines and vibrant colors, they lack the opacity and durability of paint pens, making them less ideal for painting on hard surfaces.

Key Differences Between Paint Pens & Markers

Which One Should You Choose?

If you're working on DIY projects, rock painting, customizing sneakers, or designing mugs, paint pens are your best bet due to their strong adhesion and long-lasting results.

If you love illustration, hand lettering, or everyday drawing, markers provide smooth application and blending options for paper-based artwork.

To get the best of both worlds, we recommend trying out high-quality acrylic paint pens for crafting and permanent markers for sketching!

Must-Have Paint Pens for Your Art Collection

Drawlish 2 Black Paint Pens & 2 White Marker Pens - Set of 4 Acrylic Pens Perfect for bold

outlines, highlights, and contrast, this black and white paint pen set is essential for detailed designs on both light and dark surfaces.

Drawlish 2 Gold Paint Markers & 2 Silver Paint Pens - Set of 4 Acrylic Pens

Add a touch of luxury with these shimmering metallic paint pens! Ideal for creating stunning accents on holiday crafts, personalized gifts, and calligraphy.

Drawlish Extra Fine Tip Acrylic Painter Pens – Set of 12

This versatile set includes 12 vibrant colors with extra-fine tips, making them perfect for detailed designs on various surfaces like rocks, fabric, wood, and canvas.

Where to Buy?

All these premium-quality paint pens are available at Drawlish.com. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, these long-lasting, vibrant, and easy-to-use pens will elevate your creativity.