Permanent markers will last much longer than regular markers, and they are also better for drawings that you want to be able to erase later on without damaging the paper.
Markers are writing instruments that come in many shapes and sizes. The primary difference between markers and other types of pens is the ink, which is typically permanent.
This means it will not fade or run when exposed to water, making it perfect for use on papers you want to preserve, like school assignments or artwork. Markers can also be used on glass (with unique paint-based tags), metal, and plastic. They're great for children's crafts because they provide vivid colors without smudging easily.
What Makes A Permanent Marker Permanent?
If you ever need to ask yourself this question, it will probably be because you have found your marker covered in ink that has not gone away. But what makes a permanent marker permanent? And also, why are some marks from markers frowned upon while others are acceptable? The answer lies in the actual products used to make them.
To understand what makes a permanent marker permanent, you first need to understand the components of a traditional marker.
A marker can only be classified permanent if it meets the following requirements:
- Water-resistant - It is one of the essential qualities that a marker can have. If it does not meet this requirement, it will just wipe off with a quick pass from your cloth.
- Oil-based - This means that markers are permanent because, for them to disappear, they would need to be removed physically by rubbing or washing out
- Permanent - This is how the marker got its name. If it washes out or disappears with a simple rub from your hand, then it does not meet this requirement.
Water-Resistant Markers
The most common and effective way to make a marker water-resistant is by using an oil-based formula. To be more specific, it uses a combination of oils such as linseed or safflower. These oils are thin but produce an oily layer on top of the paper so that when the ink sits on it for long periods, it will not fade away.
Oil-Based Markers
Oil-based markers are great for any application when you need something to be permanent. For example, if a contract requires that you sign in with an oil-based marker, there is no way around it. The only way to avoid using an oil-based feature on your contract is if you take the time and effort to wash the ink off of the paper. But even after repeated washes, you will still find that your signature is still on there and legible.
But oil-based markers carry a slight disadvantage in that they tend to smudge more than their counterparts due to their oils. If you do an excessive amount of highlighting with one, then it might smear across the page. Also, if you are using a small and tight pen-like 0.5mm or smaller, it will smudge after time.
Permanent Markers
Permanent markers are best described as a hybrid of water-resistant and oil-based markers. You can find both permanent marker types in this category. Some use inks that were made for more than one purpose but end up being used for either. For example, sharpies have been known to bleed sometimes when applied heavily on specific papers. Yet despite some bleeding, it is usually not permanent and will disappear with a quick rub of a cloth.
Permanent Markers Are Great For Pen Lovers
If you think that the world is against pen lovers because they are slowly being phased out by technology, then there might be hope for you yet. But before all of that can happen, so many people have to discover how permanent markers are excellent for any situation.
Of course, the erasable marker has found its place in our daily lives as well, and we use them just as much. But when it comes down to signing a contract or making notes about something that requires quality, there is no other choice but to use an oil-based marker.
Having these few qualities will make a permanent marker, but it will not be the only thing that determines how long your marker stays.