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Why You Should Use Acrylic Paint Markers for Fine Art

Why You Should Use Acrylic Paint Markers for Fine Art

5 reasons to use Liquitex Acrylic Paint Markers, and a short care guide to ensure the longevity of this tool in your art kit.

We've been really enjoying prepping for the holiday season, and this year we will be decorating gift bags and signs using Liquitex acrylic paint markers. Of course, as general crafting goes, these are great, but have you ever considered using them for fine art painting?

These markers are another vehicle for acrylic paint, offering versatility and control. They come in a wide range of colours, varying in nib widths from 2mm to 15mm, with colour matching to the Liquitex acrylics line.

 

We took a look at what Liquitex had to say about their new line and broke down the details for you. 

1. They are made with professional grade paint

These markers are made with highest quality, professional paint. Their pigments are made with basket bead-mill technology, where tiny reinforced ceramic beads give fine dispersion, great colour development, strength and brightness.

2. They can be extremely opaque

One of the things that draws artists and crafters to acrylic paint markers is the opacity of the colours on a variety of surfaces. The Liquitex acrylic paint markers are formulated to let the pigment express itself fully. These markers come with an opacity symbol on each marker barrel to indicate whether they are opaque, semi-opaque or transparent. This variation can help you achieve a range of effects. 

 
3. They are archival

Liquitex acrylic paint markers are crafted with longevity in mind. Whether your work is in a gallery or on a client's wall, your work needs to last! These markers have ASTM ratings for lightfastness at ASTM I or II, which means they have the greatest archival permanence possible.

4. They are a tool, like a brush, and can be cleaned for consistent use

Our friends at Liquitex have some simple tips on caring for the acrylic paint markers. Here is exactly what they recommend:

This marker is paint and delivery system in one, so you need to treat it with as much care as you would your brushes and tools. A ball and pump valve system inside the marker keeps the paint flowing and the pigment and binder evenly mixed. Give it a good shake before use for best results. If too much paint comes out, it’s usually because you’re pushing down too hard (or often) on the nib. It’s easily fixed - wipe away excess paint, don’t pump the nib, and your marker should be good to go again. 

Do you work your tools hard? Dirty nibs can be quickly sorted. If you’ve got other Liquitex colours or paints on your nib, and they’re still wet, take it out and rinse it. If it’s dried on or it’s simply looking a little old and worn out, go for a replacement nib. They’re easy to fit and return your markers to full precision. Remember to always store markers horizontally and to keep lids on when not in use, to stop the paint drying out.

 

 

 

5. You can also decorate everyday items

We've decorated vinyl records, skateboard decks, made plexiglass calendars, birthday cards, backpacks...in addition to fine art paintings. The possibilities are endless!

How will you use paint markers in your practice?