Whether you're breathing new life into an old object, trying your hand at rock painting, or simply adding a splash of colour to your creations, the acrylic paint marker is the ultimate creative tool. But with the vast array of options available, choosing the right set of acrylic markers can quickly become a daunting task. Which type of tip should you choose? Which brand guarantees good opacity on all surfaces?
Don't worry, this guide is here to help you see things more clearly. We've put several models to the test to help you find the perfect acrylic marker for your projects, whether you're a seasoned artist or a crafting enthusiast.
Before we dive into our selection, let's review the key criteria that will guide your choice.
The tip is the business end of the marker: it defines everything. There's a different type of tip for every use:
A good acrylic marker should be a true chameleon. Make sure it's compatible with the materials you plan to use: wood, glass, ceramic, plastic, fabric, stone, paper, or canvas. A multi-surface marker will give you greater creative freedom without having to buy multiple sets. Water-based ink is often the best option: it's virtually odourless and easier to handle.
Ink opacity is a non-negotiable feature, especially on dark or pre-coloured surfaces. A highly opaque ink will cover the surface in a single pass, delivering vibrant and intense colours. For creations intended for outdoor use or frequently handled objects, opt for a permanent colour marker with ink that is water- and UV-resistant once dry.
And now for our top picks! Here are a few gems that stand out for their specs and versatility.
The biggest advantage of this set? Its direct-flow ink system. Gone are the days of shaking and pumping the nib: just uncap and draw. Its flexible 1-5 mm brush tip is delightfully versatile, allowing you to switch from a fine line to a wide block of colour with stunning fluidity. A small detail that makes a big difference: the ink level viewing window, which is very handy for avoiding running out of ink mid-creation. The colours are bright, very opaque even on dark backgrounds, and the water-based ink is non-toxic and virtually odourless.
Ideal for artists and illustrators who love the feel of a paintbrush and a hassle-free application. It's an excellent option for working on canvas, paper, or wood, and for those who like to vary their line thickness without switching markers.
Here, Ohuhu goes all-in on versatility with an ultra-comprehensive pack. The concept is simple and effective: 24 markers with an extra-fine 0.7 mm tip for meticulous details, and another 24 markers equipped with a reversible tip (1.8-2 mm round / 4 mm chisel). All this with a palette of 24 colours that are perfectly identical across both sets for flawless consistency. The main advantage is, of course, getting two tip types for the price of one, but also the reversible tip which doubles the marker's lifespan. We also appreciate the generous ink capacity, especially in the larger models.
The perfect pack for crafting and object customisation enthusiasts who juggle between precision lines and colouring large areas. It's the ideal all-in-one solution to get fully equipped without breaking the bank.
Faber-Castell, a heavyweight in the world of fine art supplies, needs no introduction. Here, the brand offers a well-designed set of 6 acrylic markers. Their special feature? A dual tip (1 mm and 3 mm round) that lets you add variety with a single tool. The highly pigmented ink provides excellent opacity and becomes water-resistant once dry, guaranteeing durability. The colour palette is a perfect basic assortment to get you started.
An excellent starter kit for beginners, art students, or anyone looking for a reliable basic set with essential colours. The dual tip makes it extremely practical for drawing, calligraphy, or mixed media projects.
Our selection gives you a good overview, but the world of acrylic markers is vast. If you can't find what you're looking for or are simply curious to discover other colours, tips, or brands, feel free to explore our full catalogue.
? For a complete overview, discover our full collection of acrylic markers.
Most acrylic markers (except for direct-flow models) require a little prep. It's very simple: shake the marker vigorously (with the cap on!) to mix the pigments well. Then, on a piece of scrap paper, gently pump the tip until the ink fully saturates it. Your marker is ready! Always remember to close the cap tightly after use to prevent the tip from drying out.
Yes, once dry, acrylic paint is permanent and water-resistant on porous surfaces (paper, raw wood, cardboard...). On smooth surfaces like glass, ceramic, or plastic, the adhesion is very good, but for maximum durability (resistance to scratches, dishwashing...), baking it in an oven (according to the manufacturer's instructions) or applying a finishing varnish is often recommended.
The acrylic paint pen is a true all-rounder, a multi-surface champion. It adheres to an almost endless list of materials: stone, wood, metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, canvas, fabric, paper, cardboard... This is what makes it the undisputed star of DIY and decoration projects.