Why Your Paint Markers Aren’t Working (And How to Fix Them)

It is so annoying to have your canvas all ready to paint, a flow of ideas and then your paint marker is not writing. The tip is dry, the color is not coming, and you are sitting there shaking the tip like a maracas with no result. Sound familiar?

The reality is that it is not likely to be broken. You are perhaps missing some easy steps. We can see how in this simple step-by-step process, you will never again have to toss that dead paint pen.

Step 1: Take It Out of the Packaging

You’d be surprised how many people skip this! 

Before you do anything else, unwrap your paint pen and remove any plastic or protective seals. Some pens have a little ring or cap between the barrel and the tip to remove that too.

Step 2: Shake It Like You Mean It

Shake your paint marker for at least 30 seconds to disperse the pigment inside.

You should hear a little ball rattling inside like a spray paint can. That’s what mixes the paint. If the pigment hasn’t mixed properly, your color won’t flow, and the tip might look dry or chalky.

Step 3: Check the Tip

The tip should be white before use.

If you see dried paint, it’s probably blocked up. That can happen if the marker was stored horizontally, left uncapped, or not activated properly. You can gently wipe the tip with a damp cloth, but never pull it out unless the instructions say so.

Step 4: Pump the Tip

Place the tip on a scrap piece of paper and pump it up and down slowly for about 15 seconds. This allows the paint to flow from the barrel to the nib.

If the marker is high-quality, the paint should start flowing in no time.
If it’s a cheaper or older one, you might need to pump a little longer but be patient! Don’t overdo it or you might flood the tip.

Watch: How to Use Your Paint Pen Step-by-Step

Still unsure? Here’s a quick tutorial showing exactly how to shake, pump, and get smooth ink flow from your paint markers

Don’t Do This:

• Don’t keep shaking without pumping. It won’t help.
  

• Don’t press too hard; you'll damage the nib.
  

• Don’t forget to cap your marker after use.
  

• And please, for the love of art, stop skipping the shaking step
  

Want Markers That Actually Work?

If you're tired of dry nibs, weak pigments, and inconsistent flow, try Drawlish Acrylic Paint Pens.

They’re beginner-friendly, artist-approved, and packed with rich, vibrant color.

Available at Drawlish.com and Amazon UK!

Pro Tip:

Store your paint markers tip down once they’ve been activated. It helps keep the nib ready-to-go every time you create.

Most paint marker “problems” are just small missteps. With the right activation technique and a little patience, you’ll be back to making smooth, bold, clean strokes in no time. And with quality pens like Drawlish, your creativity won’t be held back by faulty tools.