15 Best Markers For Fabric In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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There are many different options for you to choose from when it comes to fabric markers. So, which ones are the best? We researched and found the 15 best markers for fabric, perfect for customizing your projects with vibrant colors and a permanent finish. As a general rule for all, simply ensure they don't bleed through the fabric to prevent damaging your shirts.
Markers for fabric usually use acrylic paint. Once applied to the fabric, the acrylic paint seeps into the fabric and becomes permanent after it dries. However, some fabric markers need heat curing in the oven to make them machine-washable.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Ohuhu Permanent Fabric Markers• Non-toxic markers |
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Best for Professional Artists: Arteza Fabric Paint Markers• Non-toxic markers |
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Best Value Set: Sunacme Fabric Markers• Non-toxic fabric paint |
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Best Detailing Marker: Crafts 4 All Fine-tip Fabric Markers• Quick-drying |
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Best for Kids: Crayola Fabric Markers• Best for kid's projects |
Best Markers For Fabric
1. Ohuhu Permanent Fabric Markers - Best Overall
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What Customers Have to Say
These are durable markers with a nice assortment of colors and a very affordable price. Some crafters use it to color-mark quilts. Families share that kids love them for school projects, and they have held up nicely in the wash. These markers are perfect for kids' projects, and parents love them.
Why We Think It's Great
Ohuhu Permanent Fabric Markers are perfect for adding a little color to your wardrobe. The soft-tip pens make it easy to write in tight spaces, and the non-toxic ink won't damage your clothes.
Add color and life to your fabrics with these non-toxic markers. The markers have smooth-flowing inks that are gentle on your clothes. Wash your painted fabrics in warm water and neutral detergent to keep your clothes looking new for longer.
The set has 30 markers arranged in plastic liners for easy organizing.
Who Should Buy It
If you are looking for a non-toxic, affordable set of markers with a good variety of colors, this set is perfect. The markers work great for anyone who loves to do crafts with fabric.
2. Arteza Fabric Paint Markers - Best for Professional Artists
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What Customers Have to Say
Artists love the vivid colors and excellent saturation of these markers. However, customers wished the markers were sold individually so they didn’t have to buy the whole set when they consumed a few colors.
The color selection is also good for beginner and professional artists. Overall, the markers are at par with the Arteza quality that artists prefer.
Why We Think It's Great
Arteza Fabric Paint Markers are perfect if you're looking for fabric markers for your projects. These non-toxic markers have a machine-washable finish, so your creations will last long even when machine-washed.
The dual-tip design provides great control and excellent color saturation to create masterpieces with ease. The markers apply smoothly, blend well, and have excellent color saturation.
They don't harden when applied to the fabric, so you retain the fabric's quality and feel. Be sure to use a piece of cardboard when painting on the fabric, though, to prevent bleeding to the other side of the garment.
Each set has 40 acrylic markers, and the markers feature breathable caps to prevent choking when kids accidentally swallow them. Be careful when applying dark colors in small areas; they may look black if you add several layers of paint.
Who Should Buy It
Arteza Fabric Paint Markers is one of the best professional markers for fabric artists and crafters. It is an artist-grade brand made for artists and tested by artists, so you know each marker passed the artists' discriminating taste for art supplies.
3. US Art Supply Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
US Art Supply markers are fantastic. They work perfectly on almost any fabric surface; they are great for doodling on shirts, pants, and sneakers. Most customers loved the set as it also comes in a great color selection at a very affordable price.
Why We Think It's Great
These fabric markers are perfect for anyone who loves to express themselves creatively. They're versatile and don't bleed even when you use them on pillowcases.
The dual-tip design provides a bullet and chisel tip to create either thin or thick lines with ease. These markers are non-toxic, so even kids three years and older can use them. The child-safe breathable caps prevent choking if kids accidentally put them in their mouths.
The colors are permanent, so your creations will last a long time. Give the markings 24 hours to cure before washing and wearing them to allow the paint to work well into the fabric.
Who Should Buy It
These markers work perfectly for crafters on a budget. With 20 vibrant colors available, you'll have all the shades you need to create stunning designs on any type of fabric.
4. Liquitex Professional Fine Paint Marker Set
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What Customers Have to Say
This set comes in vibrant colors, and the markers have just about the right size for working on fabric. As they're easier to work with than with a pen, artists highly recommend these paint markers to fellow artists and crafters.
Why We Think It's Great
Add some pizzazz to your shirts and shoes with Liquitex Professional Fine Paint Markers. The acrylic paint formulation makes them bleed-proof and water-resistant when dry. They're excellent for adding detail and color to any fabric project.
It is semi-opaque, so you need to reapply multiple times to get the right opacity for your work. The paint mixes well with other colors. A ball-and-pump valve system keeps the paint flowing smoothly and evenly mixed.
These vibrant, lightfast markers come in 6 vibrant colors (cadmium yellow, cadmium orange, cadmium magenta, brilliant purple, light blue, purple, and vivid lime green). The nibs are removable for easy cleanup, and you can replace them to lengthen the life of your markers.
To use the markers, give them a good shake. Always store the markers on a horizontal organizer to keep them working for a long time. If it dries out, remove the excess paint, then you can use it again.
Who Should Buy It
We recommend this set to crafters who love to customize their shirts, canvas shoes, canvas tote bags, and other customizable fabric surfaces.
5. Tulip Premium-Quality Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Users love this set of markers because they have excellent color saturation. Young artists who love to color and craft find these perfect, and many post their work on online forums and sites. The artwork done on shirts turned out very clean.
Why We Think It's Great
Tulip Premium-Quality Fabric Markers are colorfast and fade-resistant markers that keep your work in tip-top condition for a long time. Good color saturation ensures that your markings will be highly visible on any surface. The permanent ink will never smudge or rub off – ideal for fabrics and other delicate materials.
Each pack has 25 individual markers and comes in two marker types: 10 brush tip markers and 15 fine-tip markers. The tips ensure that you'll have the perfect tool for any job. They are also non-toxic and acid-free, making them safe to use on any surface.
The only downside is that there can be some inconsistency in color markings from one marker to the next. They also tend to bleed a lot on some fabrics except cotton.
Who Should Buy It
If you're looking for a high-quality set of fabric markers, the Tulip Premium-Quality Fabric Markers make for a great option.
6. Artistro Acrylic Paint Markers - Best Durable Inks
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What Customers Have to Say
Artistro Acrylic Paint Markers set is just what many artists need to get started on their fabric art paintings. It has no irritating smells and is quite lovely to use. Kids who use these markers appreciate the set for its smooth finish and consistent ink flow.
Why We Think It's Great
Artistro Acrylic Paint Markers are an ideal product option for creating stunning artwork on multiple surfaces - glass, wood, stone, paper, and even phone cases. The medium-point tip lets you cover a lot of ground quickly, and the fade-resistant, vibrant colors will keep your work looking great for years to come.
The water-resistant ink means your masterpiece can withstand a little rain or a spilled drink. The transparent barrel allows you to see inside to let you know when you run out of paint on your pens.
If you don't find the markers to meet your expectations, the company offers a full refund.
Who Should Buy It
Artists and crafters who love versatile markers for their mix of crafting and painting projects will appreciate having these markers when setting up their art studio.
7. Best Brand Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
The pens are very bright, easy to use, and give a thick color that doesn't bleed even when used on white fabric. Some users bought these markers to paint onesies for a baby shower. These markers are worth every penny you spend on them.
Why We Think It's Great
Add a little personality to your clothes and shoes using Best Fabric Markers. You can quickly and easily incorporate beautiful designs into your fabric projects without worrying about heat settings or bleeding.
The finished shirt is machine-washable, and the quick-drying paint lets you work on several types of fabric without fear of bleeding. It also allows you better control of your work, better than you can do with a brush.
The ink is fade-resistant and non-toxic, making it an excellent choice for kids' crafts and more sophisticated projects. The colors are bright and accurate to the tube, so you won't be disappointed there.
Who Should Buy It
These pens are perfect for those who often work on fabric materials because they do not require any heat setting as other fabric markers do. They also have a quick-drying ink formula, so you won't have to wait long before you can use your custom-made shirts.
8. Sunacme Fabric Markers - Best Value Set
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What Customers Have to Say
The Zenacolor Fabric Markers are some of the best because they are non-toxic and machine-washable. Many users love the fine points on these markers, and they're great for working on kids' clothes. The only downside is that they don't work well in dark colors. Remember also to use a piece of paper underneath to prevent bleeding.
Why We Think It's Great
The markers use non-toxic ink, making them safe for users of all ages. The fabric marker applied on the shirt cures in 24 hours, making them water-resistant and washable in warm water and mild detergent.
You can use it on textiles, fabric, paper, and other porous surfaces. Each set has 32 colors, many of which are related for better transition when applying the ombre effect.. The white round barrel is smooth, with color-coded caps and pen ends for easier identification.
If you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it with a 100% money-back guarantee. However, there is not much to like about these markers since the markers use German-technology ink for smoother application and fade-resistant effects on fabric.
Who Should Buy It
Zenacolor Fabric Markers are an excellent choice for those who want affordable, Climate-Pledge friendly markers to add a creative streak to your shirts, sneakers, and canvas bags.
9. Emooqi Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Emooqi Fabric Markers are excellent markers that you can use even on burlap. According to users, the markers are not 100% bleed-proof, but they work well on burlap and other fabrics. Some crafters were able to use these markers for baby shower crafts.
Why We Think It's Great
Emooqi Fabric Markers come in 24 colors with chisel points and fine-point tips, perfect for intricate designs and large strokes. The child-safe inks are non-toxic and waterproof– ideal for any fabric surface.
The paint cures in 24 hours, and then you can wash it in warm water using a neutral detergent. Aside from using it on fabric, Emooqi Fabric Markers are also compatible for doodling, thick writing, decorating, and other creative purposes.
If you have any questions or problems, Emooqi's excellent customer support team is available 24/7 to attend to your needs.
Who Should Buy It
If you're looking for washable markers for kids with excellent customer support, the Emooqi Fabric Markers are a great choice. They're also very affordable, so you won’t feel as conscious about using them or letting your children play with them.
10. Crafts 4 All Fine-tip Fabric Markers - Best Detailing Marker
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What Customers Have to Say
These fabric markers are excellent. Some buyers have been using this brand for years and have never complained about its quality. The tips are fine and perfect for adding details. The colors are also bright, and the set is very affordable.
Why We Think It's Great
Crafts 4 All Fine-tip Fabric Markers are excellent for adding quick and easy details to your shirts, tote bags, and shoes. The paints dry quickly to a fade-resistant and permanent finish once it dries, making them machine-washable.
It is a child-friendly set, making it safe for little ones to use. With these vibrant fabric markers, you can add a pop of color to any piece of clothing in no time. The set has 24 fine-tip markers in white, oval barrels with color-coded caps and tips for easier organizing.
Who Should Buy It
If you're looking for an affordable set of fabric markers that gets the job done when you need to work on finer details, then this set is an excellent choice. The fine-tip nibs will be such a game-changer for your projects.
11. Crayola Fabric Markers - Best for Kids
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What Customers Have to Say
Some kids used these markers on white socks that go into the washer without color-bleeding issues. The colors remained bright and clear. Buyers think that the markers work great on light and dark clothes and don’t make a huge mess after use. However, other users wished the set had a brown color.
Why We Think It's Great
Fabric markers are the perfect way to add personality to your kid's projects. They work on both light and dark-colored shirts, and the fine line markers make it easy to create detailed designs.
When you're done working on your shirts, they're good to go in the washer and dryer. Don't worry about ruining your clothes. They're safe and non-toxic, so even 3-year-old kids can use them.
Every set has 10 markers - red, orange, pink, yellow, green, blue-green, blue, purple, gray, and black. The fine-tip markers can get fine details on your shirts and other art projects. To make the marks permanent, set the flatiron cotton (depending on the brand) and iron on the reverse side of the shirt.
Who Should Buy It
These Crayola Fabric Markers are perfect for kid's projects. The fine-tip nibs work great for adding details, and the markers are safe to go in the washer and dryer.
12. Sharpie Stained Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
A crafter used these markers for DIY painting on hats with impressive results. Many users also reported that the markers lasted long, which is great for their budget. On the downside, Sharpie does not sell individual markers, which is sad since artists have to buy a set even if they only want to use one color.
Why We Think It's Great
With their bright colors and ink-resistant formula, Sharpie Brush-tip Fabric Markers are perfect for adding a splash of personality to any piece of clothing. They're safe to use on all types of fabric - so go ahead and let your creativity flow.
The brush tips create smooth, adjustable lines based on your desired thickness, making them perfect for everything from thin stripes to large designs. The set has eight markers in rainbow colors (including a pink and a black one). To keep them going, always store the markers in horizontal organizers.
Who Should Buy It
Here's a treat you don't want to miss for those who love Sharpies. Let the inks dry well before throwing them into the wash to avoid bleeding. We also recommend these to artists who work on fabrics other than cotton because they’re compatible even mo poly-blend fabric.
13. Mosaiz Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Some users wish the markers had finer tips. The markers may bleed when put in the wash, but the vibrant colors are worth it. Users are not as worried about smudging since the ink dries quickly.
Why We Think It's Great
Mosaiz Fabric Markers come in a pack of ten and include six primary colors and four metallic shades. These fabric markers feature non-toxic, acid-free paint that dries quickly and seamlessly into the fabric to feel thick.
Find the perfect color for your project from the 24 markers in the set. The set also includes peel & stick alphabet and number stencils that you can use to personalize your bags, shirts, school labels, etc.
The markers also feature gold and silver markers for adding sheen to your projects. These markers are great for DIY gifts for Mother’s Day.
Who Should Buy It
Mosaiz Fabric Markers are a great choice for crafters and artists looking for an affordable option with an extra shimmer. The set includes metallic gold and silver markers to give you a metallic sheen on your projects.
14. Creative Joy Fabric Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Many customers had fun working with these markers because they have the best quality. The markers don't bleed much and blend very nicely. They're also vibrant and work well on many fabric projects.
Why We Think It's Great
Creative Joy Fabric Markers are great for adding extra flair to your clothes and accessories. The paint is safe because it is non-toxic and bears the ASTM D-4236 and EN-71 certifications.
The set has 18 fabric paints and includes gold and silver markers for adding interest to your projects. These dual-tipped markers have fine chisel tips on one end and fine tips on the other, making it easy to add details.
The washer and dryer won't damage the markings - they'll look just as good as when you put them in. And if you're unsatisfied with your purchase, the company will give you your money back.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are perfect for those who want an extra pop of vibrant color for their projects. Note that you need to set the print in heat to not bleed on other fabrics. Therefore, we recommend these markers mostly for professionals or adults to assist the kids in curing their work using a flatiron.
15. Aen Art Fabric Marker
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What Customers Have to Say
One of the customers bought this set to resolve a bleach spot that didn’t come off the wash and was successful. Another buyer also used these markers to make fabric greeting cards, though they didn’t work well with felt material.
Why We Think It’s Great
Aen Art Fabric Marker uses premium German fabric dye inks that dry quickly and cure in 12-24 hours. The fine tips are perfect for adding finer details to your fabric paintings.
The set uses non-toxic inks that conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 certifications to ensure safety during crafting. You can use the markers to color, doodle, write, or make DIY projects on fabric and paper.
The set has 36 colored fabric markers, stencils, and a fabric sheet for testing your markers. Wash below 86oF after it cures for ideal results.
Who Should Buy It
If you’re a crafter on a budget or looking for fabric markers for customizing your projects, these markers are the right choice. We also recommend them to young artists because they are non-toxic and won’t cause any health issues for kids.
Best Fabric Markers Buying Guide
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Size of the Nibs
Choose the right size of nibs for the project you're working on. The fine tip is great for detailed work since you can easily work on the small and difficult spots without going over the outline, thus giving your drawing a clean look.
On the other hand, the chisel tip is perfect for larger areas. It also works for adding stylized lettering to shirts since you can change the width of the letters by turning the marker to a different angle.
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Color Selection
Choose the right fabric markers for your projects. Some artists don't need many colors, so a set of 8 or 10 markers is enough. Others prefer more colors to choose from, so a set with 24 or more markers is best.
Some marker sets include metallic markers, which is perfect if you want to add a sheen to your projects. Metallic markers don’t work in all projects, though, so be judicious when using them. You don’t want your landscapes to look weird, unless you’re doing whimsical landscapes.
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Versatility
Choose markers that you can use on various surfaces, aside from fabric. Some fabric markers, especially the acrylic ones, also work on rocks, paper, wood, and other surfaces. Oil-based markers, on the other hand, don’t work on fabric but work on other surfaces, so oil-based markers are out if you’re working on fabric.
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Ink Quality
The ink quality of your markers is also important. Check that the inks are not runny or thick to avoid messing with your shirts, shoes, and bags. An even consistency will give you a sharp look at your projects.
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Safety
The ink used in the marker should not be non-toxic and with certifications on its safety to use as an art product. Check out product descriptions and reviews to know if your product is safe.
Some certifications that should appear on your markers are ASTM D-4236, EN-71, and ACMI. These logos mean that the markers had been tested using internationally accepted standards and reflect information regarding their ingredients and safety, especially if kids are going to use them.
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Lightfastness
You'll want to choose markers with high-quality pigment ink, so the colors don't fade over time. Many fabric markers now come with lightfastness ratings, so you can be sure the colors will last for a long time, especially when washed in the washer.
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Opacity
If you're looking to cover a large area with color, you'll want an opaque marker. Opaque markers lay down a solid layer of ink, so you don't have to go over the same spot multiple times. Opacity is also great when working on dark fabrics, as it will prevent the fabric from showing through your design.
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Length of Curing
Choose fabric markers that will take only overnight to cure so you can use them, wash them in the washing machine and even dry them in the dryer. However, some fabric markers need heat to set before you can use them.
Fabric Markers FAQ
1. Are alcohol markers good for fabric?
There are several factors why alcohol markers, like Copic markers, are not the best for drawing on fabric. Cloth is very absorbent, and as a result, the inks from the alcohol markers seep through the fibers and saturate them.
However, if you're planning on dyeing textiles, alcohol markers are an excellent choice. You can draw random swirls and patterns on the fabric you want to dye, then let the inks blend to create an interesting ombre or gradient design.
2. Do regular markers work on fabric?
Regular markers are best for writing on paper and other porous and non-porous surfaces. While you can write or draw on fabric using regular markers, they don't have the best quality. The ink will likely bleed through the fabric and be as vibrant or intense.
Besides, the writing or drawing on the shirt using a regular marker is rougher, while the drawing with fabric markers has a smoother effect.
3. What is the difference between fabric markers and permanent markers?
Permanent markers best write on non-porous surfaces such as metal, glass, and plastic or porous surfaces like paper, rocks, masonry, etc. You can use permanent markers to write your name on fabric, but it bleeds heavily, thus ruining your shirt.
On the other hand, fabric markers are best for fabrics and will not bleed through or fade away easily. The ink in fabric markers is water-based, usually acrylics, and needs to cure before it becomes permanent on the fabric. Some markers need air drying, while others need heat-setting to cure.
4. How do you draw on fabric without bleeding?
To prevent the markers from bleeding on your shirt or bag, apply light, short strokes without allowing the marker to sit on a single spot on the fabric for longer than 5 seconds.
You can use a cardboard piece to protect the other side of the shirt from damage for added protection.
5. How do you seal ink on fabric?
Most fabric markers need heat sealing before it becomes permanent on fabric. Turn the shirt inside out, then place a cardboard sheet over the fabric drawing. Set the flatiron on high, then iron on the backside of the printing to seal in ink on the fabric.
Another alternative is to throw the fabric in the dryer without washing it. The heat in the dryer cures the fabric marker on the shirt, making it permanent and withstand washing.
Conclusion
Our best overall vote for fabric markers is the US Art Supply Fabric Markers because the dual-tip permanent markers use non-toxic paint. The company has excellent customer service ready to answer your queries.
Arteza Fabric Paint Markers are best for professional artists since these non-toxic markers have excellent color saturation that blends smoothly for seamless effects.
For the best value set, we recommend the Sunacme Fabric Markers because it does not need heat treatment, and the shirt you worked on has cured in 24 hours, making it machine washable in warm water.
The Crafts 4 All Fine-tip Fabric Markers are best for adding details to your fabric marker projects. Thanks to the fade-resistant, permanent fabric pens, it has vibrant, quick-drying colors that are machine-washable after curing.
Having kids at home? No worries, Crayola continues to give you Crayola fabric markers because they’re non-toxic, making them best for kids’ projects. The markers also work on dry and light shirts, and the marks stay permanent and safe to wash and dry.
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