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Colouring pens and artist markers: how to choose the right ones for your needs

Choosing colouring pens and artist markers isn’t just about counting how many colours come in a set. A nib that’s wrong for the job, ink that bleeds through the paper, or a marker that doesn’t work on your surface can quickly turn a promising purchase into a disappointment.

Drawing, lettering, bullet journaling, customising objects or creative hobbies – whatever your project, three common pitfalls keep cropping up.

The pitfalls to avoid before you buy

  • Confusing line width with versatility: a pen described as “fine” may be perfect for writing, but lack the flexibility to fill in a larger area. Conversely, a broad nib can crush small details.
  • Relying only on the number of colours: a set of 30 shades isn’t necessarily more useful than a well-chosen assortment of 12 colours. Above all, check that the shades suit your projects.
  • Ignoring the paper and surface you’re using: water-based ink generally works well on standard paper, but its performance can change on thin, card or highly absorbent paper. Acrylic markers work on many surfaces, but a test beforehand is still essential.

The claim “does not bleed through paper” should also be taken with a pinch of salt. The result depends on the paper weight, texture and number of passes. For a bullet journal or notebook, always test the pen on a page near the back of the book.

The technical features to check

1. The nib, based on your creative style

Medium-tip pens, typically between 0.7 and 1 mm, offer a very practical compromise for colourful writing, outlines and sketches. The Paper Mate Flair, for example, comes in 0.7 mm or 1 mm tips depending on the reference. They’re suitable for annotations, visual organisation and drawings with a moderate level of detail.

Fine-tip pens are better suited to small lettering, precise outlines, calendar notes and intricate patterns. STAEDTLER Lumocolor permanent markers in 1 mm are designed for marking and labelling, particularly on plastic, glass, metal, cardboard and paper.

Brush-tip pens respond to a different technique. The pressure you apply varies the line width, making them especially interesting for lettering, flourishes and expressive illustrations. For consistent lines without too much difficulty, an ogive or round 1 mm tip will be easier to control.

2. The ink composition

Water-based pens are widely used for writing, colouring and drawing on paper. They generally have little odour and can allow you to create blends or watercolour effects when the product description says so. The STABILO Pen 68 features water-based, odour-free ink and a 1 mm tip.

Permanent pens use ink designed to produce long-lasting marks. Their resistance to water and rubbing depends on the surface and the drying time. STAEDTLER Lumocolor pens are presented with quick-drying, alcohol-based ink that is water-resistant once dry. Use them in a well-ventilated room and avoid contact with skin.

Acrylic markers deposit an opaque layer, generally suitable for wood, stone, glass, metal, ceramic, plastic, fabric or canvas, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. Non-porous surfaces should be cleaned and then tested on an inconspicuous area. These products are not intended for skin or surfaces that come into contact with food.

3. The set format and storage

A compact set of colouring pens slips easily into a bag and is suitable for school, work and travel. A metal box protects the nibs better and makes it easier to organise the shades. If you use your pens very regularly, also check the availability of replacement nibs, storage conditions and the need to recap each pen promptly.

A palette of 12 to 18 colours is often enough to get started. Sets of 30 colours offer more shades, while a 90-pen set like the Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen is aimed more at varied practices requiring several nib shapes.

Our selection based on your profile

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget
Paper Mate Flair Fibre Tip Markers

Paper Mate Flair Fibre Tip Markers | medium tip

Why this choice suits this profile: A versatile assortment for colourful notes, bullet journaling and first drawings, with a medium 0.7 mm tip and water-based ink.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 16-colour set avoids paying for a huge palette straight away and lets you test different uses on standard paper.

Main advantage and key features

Medium tip, assorted colours and ink presented as smudge-resistant and designed to limit bleed-through on paper.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Wooden Box of 90

Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen Brush | wooden box of 90 pens

Why this choice suits this profile: The variety of nibs – brush, fine, medium, broad and chisel – meets the needs of illustrators, lettering enthusiasts and projects requiring several levels of precision.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The box brings together several nib types and avoids having to buy separate sets for drawing, writing or expressive strokes.

Main advantage and key features

90 pens, water-based pigment ink presented as water-resistant and lightfast, compartmentalised wooden box.

Recommended for: Specific uses and heavy users
Faber-Castell Black Edition Shake and Paint Acrylic Marker

Faber-Castell Black Edition Shake & Paint Acrylic Marker | 6 standard colours

Why this choice suits this profile: Customisation projects on wood, glass, stone, metal or fabric require opaque acrylic ink and several line widths.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description mentions a double tip of 3 mm and 1 mm: you can fill an area, then go back to details without changing marker.

Main advantage and key features

Opaque acrylic ink, six colours, stated water resistance and compatibility with many creative surfaces.

Recommended for: Colouring and gradient fans
STABILO Pen 68 18 colours

STABILO Pen 68 | fibre-tip pens, set of 18 colours

Why this choice suits this profile: The 1 mm ogive tip and water-based ink are suitable for colouring, filling areas and the watercolour effects mentioned in the product description.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of colours remains reasonable for starting to blend, without forcing you to store a large set from your first purchase.

Main advantage and key features

18 assorted colours, 1 mm line, odour-free ink and anti-dry-out technology stated to last up to 24 hours without the cap.

Looking for other options?

We’ve put together a comprehensive list, updated in real time, of products that meet these demanding selection criteria and European safety regulations.

Tips for use and storage

  • Replace the cap immediately after use, even when the ink is stated to be resistant to drying.
  • Store the pens horizontally when the instructions recommend it.
  • For an acrylic marker, shake it with the cap on, then prime the tip on a scrap sheet of paper if necessary.
  • Test on an inconspicuous area before customising an object.
  • Avoid heat, direct sunlight and delicate fabrics. Some inks can leave stains that are difficult to remove.
  • Caps present a choking hazard: keep products out of reach of children under 3 years old.

FAQ on colouring pens and artist markers

Which pens should I choose for a bullet journal?

Medium-tip pens, from 0.7 to 1 mm, are suitable for titles, boxes and annotations. Choose a water-based ink and check it doesn’t bleed through by testing on a page near the back of the notebook.

What’s the difference between a permanent pen and an acrylic marker?

A permanent pen is primarily used for long-lasting marking on different surfaces. An acrylic marker generally deposits a more opaque layer, which is particularly useful for decoration and customisation. How well it lasts depends on the surface, surface preparation and drying time.

How can I extend the life of a set of colouring pens?

Replace the caps firmly, store the pens according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and avoid leaving them near a radiator or a sun-exposed window. For frequent use, choose a box that separates the colours and protects the nibs.