12 Best Paint Markers For Wood In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Are you looking for the best paint markers for wood surfaces? This blog post will discuss 12 of the best brands out there and provide a detailed review of each one. We will also provide a buying guide to help you choose the right marker for your needs. At the end of this, newbies and professional artists alike can start on their DIY wood projects around the house with more confidence.
Top Picks
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Best Overall: Uni Posca 8-Color Paint Markers• Water-based paint pens |
Runner-up: Artistro Paint Markers• Applies on various surfaces |
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Best Metallic Markers: Dapawin Oil-Based Paint Markers• Oil-based paint pens |
1. Uni-Posca 8-Color Paint Markers - Best Overall
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What Customers Have to Say
Many artists proudly posted their work online and recommended these markers to other artists. The brand does go on sale from time to time, which is a great plus for artists on a budget. The colors are also bright and opaque, and artists simply love how the markers elevate their artwork quality.
Why We Think It's Great
Every Uni Posca Paint Marker is a professional artist's choice for vibrant, opaque coverage. These markers have medium-width tips and lightfast colors perfect for various creative projects. They also use water-based inks that are non-toxic and completely safe to use.
They work well on porous surfaces like a sketchbook, wood, leather, cardstock, and non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, plastic, and ceramics.
Each set has eight colors in 1.8mm bullet-shaped nibs - white, yellow, pink, red, blue, sky blue, green, and black. However, by holding the marker at a different angle, you can get 2.5mm lines with these markers. The nibs are also easy to clean with water to avoid mess without you being worried about ruining them.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for those specifically looking for alcohol and solvent-free paint pens with good coverage that layers beautifully.
2. Artistro Paint Markers - Runner-up
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What Customers Have to Say
Artists love these paint pens because they can do several projects with these versatile paint markers. The markers glide smoothly, but they can leave paint splatters when applied on uneven surfaces, especially if it is overly porous. The nibs also stay in good condition for a long time which helps save your budget.
Why We Think It's Great
Artistro paint pens are non-toxic and odorless water-based markers making them ideal for artists of all ages. The colors are vibrant, while the sturdy tips keep the markers for a long time. The inks are fast-drying and leave an opaque finish with excellent coverage.
Each pack has 12 extra-fine tip markers that flow smoothly. The colors included in the set are black, white, yellow, orange, green, blue, red, pink, brown, violet, white, metallic silver, and metallic gold.
Although the caps are hard to remove, we think the overall quality of these markers makes them a great choice for artists. The markers work on several surfaces; using them on your wood, glass, canvas, ceramic, and terracotta projects.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for artists who want extra-fine details on their wood and other projects. The metallic and brown markers are well-thought features since they are missing on most basic marker sets.
3. Tooli-Art Acrylic Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Artists prefer this brand over more expensive brands because they're easy enough on the hands with their small barrels, but mostly because they work on almost any surface - rocks, canvas, paper, wood, and other surfaces. They don't leave as much mess as other brands, which lessens the need for a more thorough cleanup.
Why We Think It's Great
Tooli-Art's Acrylic Paint Markers are perfect for anyone looking for affordable markers with opaque coverage. The extra-fine nylon tips provide a smooth, consistent stroke, and the acid-free and odorless inks are safe for use on any surface.
The 30-color paint markers are small, comparable with regular colored markers in barrel size. The colors are blacks, whites, grays, pinks, pastels, mid-tones, tertiaries, secondaries, and primaries.
The colors are quick-drying and apply on various surfaces, but most importantly, they don't react with acrylic sealers. The company's 100% satisfaction guarantee also makes them a risk-free buy.
Who Should Buy It
These paint markers are best for wood artists on a budget since you get 30 markers of various shades in one very affordable pack.
4. Morfone Metallic Paint Pens
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What Customers Have to Say
The markers are too wide for detailed jobs. However, some artists with arthritic hands love the wide barrel. The colors are nice and muted, though, so the metallic gleam is not as good as advertised.
Why We Think It's Great
Morfone Metallic Marker Pens are great for adding a touch of glamor to any project. Whether you're adding embellishments to a scrapbook or journal or personalizing a wooden souvenir, these pens provide beautiful, lightfast colors to make your work shine.
The markers are also great for detailing cars, bikes, and other metallic surfaces because they work on almost any surface as long as the surfaces are free of grime, dust, and debris.
The water-based ink is non-toxic and safe for kids, making them perfect for school projects and crafts. The 10-marker set includes metallic colors in gold, brown, black, white, silver, green, olive, blue, purple, and pink.
The 12-month replacement and refund policy allows you to buy these paint markers confidently.
Who Should Buy It
If you're looking for good quality with a whole lot of shimmer, these are the markers you want. The metallic colors add a touch of class to any project, and the water-based ink is safe for kids.
5. Beric Premium Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
According to a buyer, these paint markers work on several surfaces, but they have their limitations. They don't work as perfectly for wood and other semi-porous surfaces as the other brands.
Why We Think It's Great
Beric Premium Paint Markers help artists add a touch of color to any project. With vivid, lightfast colors that write on most surfaces, these markers are easy to use and last a long time.
There's no messy application - just prime, and you're ready to go. These paint markers are a great tool to do the job should you want to add a splash of color to your wooden art projects or make a wood sign that will stand out.
The set comes with 12 oil-based paint markers featuring medium tips and is safe to use because they're non-toxic.
Who Should Buy It
Beric Premium Paint Markers are a great choice if you're looking for a set of paint markers that will write on wood, metal, glass, and more.
6. Pintar Premium Oil Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
The colors are vibrant, and artists love to use them for painting on rocks, terracotta pots, wood, and several other surfaces. Some artists used them to create stencil artwork. The paint markers have more gloss than other markers of their kind.
Why We Think It's Great
Pintar Premium Oil Paint Markers apply easily on almost any surface. The quick-drying paint is perfect for those who want to move on to their next project quickly, and the lightfast colors ensure that your work will last.
The paints used do not contain xylene or toluene, making them safer for you and the environment. It’s also at par with Japanese quality, meaning you can expect superior results.
The set has 24 markers; 20 have 5mm thick medium tips and 4 1mm fine tips in gold, silver, black and white. The medium markers come in bolder colors and different shades of red, yellow, pink, blue, purple, green, orange, and brown.
Who Should Buy It
Pintar Premium Oil Paint Markers are a great choice for anyone looking for paint markers that can write on various surfaces. These are also ideal for those who wish to have options for the thickness of the markers’ tips.
7. Penguin Art Supplies Acrylic Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
These marker pens are very easy to use, even exceeding the users' expectations. They apply nicely on steel, paper, poster board, rocks, and wood. Most importantly, they're safe to use, even for small kids.
Why We Think It's Great
Penguin Art Supplies Acrylic Paint Markers are perfect for professional artists and hobbyists. The nib is reversible where you can switch between the 5mm round tip and the 3mm chisel tip if you want to fill large areas with details on your woodwork project.
The permanent, water-resistant paint also ensures your artwork will last. With vivid colors that are easy to clean, Penguin Art Supplies Acrylic Paint Markers will become your new favorite go-to for all your artistic needs.
The set has 28 colors, organized in a black zippered canvas bag for easy organizing and travel. The UV-resistant paint markers last a long time, so artists love them.
Who Should Buy It
Artists looking for water-based, no-odor markers will love to have these acrylic markers in their art studio. The markers also make a great gift for aspiring artists.
8. Elmer's Painters Opaque Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Artists love using these markers for wood crafts because they can get them at an excellent price, and they are not as messy as the other paint marker brands. Some even ordered a new box because they work well for their projects.
Why We Think It's Great
Elmer's Painters Opaque Paint Markers are reliable and versatile markers, perfect for any project. They feature medium-sized nibs that allow for broad strokes, and the permanent, water-resistant paint is perfect for use on various surfaces.
The markers produce vivid colors that will make your projects pop, and the easy-to-clean design means you won't have to worry about messes. Whether you're a professional artist or just getting started, Elmer's Painters Opaque Paint Markers are the perfect choice for all your painting needs.
The set has five markers - black, white, red, blue, and green. Quality is excellent; you won't find any streaks on your work.
Who Should Buy It
This set of markers is best for artists looking to get started on the basics of painting on wood projects. Though they don't have an extensive color selection, they still work efficiently for filling and outlining your projects.
9. Flymax White Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
Some users jokingly asked where these markers had been when they started their art projects. The tips are very nice; they keep their shape for a long time and apply smoothly on almost any surface, even on carbon fiber arrows. They're not gel pens, though, so you may experience some splattering if stored standing.
Why We Think It's Great
Flymax White Paint Pens have smooth ink flow, making them quick and easy to get the perfect markings every time. The 0.7mm nylon tips stay in good shape and do not easily fray, so that you can use them for a long time.
The markers conform with ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 safety certifications, which guarantee that they are safe for use. Each pack has six paint markers that you can use on various surfaces - leather, paper, plastic, glass, wood, atone, canvas, even concrete, and fabric. You may have issues working on steel, but cleaning and priming your surfaces help.
If you're not happy with your purchase, the company can give you a full refund - no questions asked.
Who Should Buy It
These paint markers are best for artists looking exclusively for white paint markers for their wood artworks.
10. Pandafly Acrylic Paint Pens
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What Customers Have to Say
According to some buyers who have tried it, the white marker is not as opaque as artists prefer. Meanwhile, the metallic pens are very striking, and users are pleased enough for them to order more sets for their work.
Why We Think It's Great
Pandafly Acrylic Paint Pens are high-quality pens that provide long-lasting, water- and fade-resistant colors to make your art extraordinary. And they're so versatile - you can use them on various surfaces, from wood to glass to fabric.
The set has 8 markers that work well on wood, fabric, canvas, metal, and glass. It includes 2 white, 2 black, 2 silver, and 2 gold markers with extra fine tips for adding details to your projects. It uses non-toxic inks, contains no harmful chemicals, and conforms to ASTM d-4236 standards.
Pandafly's highly pigmented inks provide rich, vibrant color that is sure to please. Every purchase is 100% satisfaction-guaranteed since you can send them back when you're not satisfied with it.
Who Should Buy It
This set of markers is best for artists looking for extra-fine tips for detailed work on your wood painting and signs.
11. Coogert Acrylic Paint Markers
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What Customers Have to Say
These markers are awesome, according to many users. The vibrant colors and the three tips on the markers included in the set allow you more control over the strokes you apply to your wooden plaques, signs, and artwork.
Why We Think It's Great
These Coogert Acrylic Paint Markers come with three tips in one marker set to switch up your style quickly and easily. The quick-dry, water-based inks apply on multiple surfaces and are permanent, perfect for your crafting needs.
The non-toxic ink makes these markers safe for both adults and children to use. The colors are vibrant; the barrels are just the right size. The tips are reversible, so you can easily get the right nib for your detail and fill up work.
The set has 24 colors that you can use on ceramic, wood, terracotta, canvas, metal, or glass, or to decorate scrapbooks and journals.
Who Should Buy It
Coogert Acrylic Paint Markers are an excellent marker set if you're looking for affordable gifts for any occasion.
12. Dapawin Oil-Based Paint Markers - Best Metallic Markers for Wood
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What Customers Have to Say
Satisfied artists love these markers because they can draw and paint without needing or learning to use a brush. The resulting mug painted with these markers is dishwasher-safe so that you can give them out without worry.
Why We Think It's Great
Dapawin oil-based paint markers are the perfect way to add a little personality and pizzazz to your projects. With vibrant colors and a durable tip, these markers let you create beautifully detailed designs more confidently.
The set has 12 markers that apply easily on rocks, glass, fabric, ceramic, wood, metal, plastic, Easter eggs, and cards. The hassle-free replacement and full refund policy guarantee a risk-free purchase. You may also use these markers for graffiti art.
Who Should Buy It
These metallic marker pens are best for adding a pop of color to your wood art projects. When applied to ceramic vases and mugs, it needs baking, so if you don't have an oven but still want to paint wine glasses, this set is a good option.
Paint Markers for Wood Buying Guide
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Paint Quality
You can choose between oil- and water-based paint pens to apply on wooden surfaces. Aside from the paint base, paint markers can also be metallic, glossy, or matte. Oil-based paint pens have an odor similar to oil paints, and these odors can trigger allergic reactions, so choose water-based markers if you have respiratory allergies.
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Paint Consistency
Choose the right consistency for your paint pen markers. It is best to avoid paint pens with a thick consistency to avoid clumping and clogging, especially using oil-based paint markers. A runnier consistency flows better, but the marker releases too much paint if it's too runny, leaving a messy finish.
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Size of Nibs
Most paint pens for wood use bullet tips in three sizes - extra-fine, fine, and medium. The size of the nib is important for the kind of work you want. Fine and extra-fine tips are for details, while medium nibs are for filling large areas with color. Some paint pens also include chisel-tip markers, which are best for consistent line widths and stylized fonts.
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Color Selection
Color selection is also a factor to consider when buying paint pens. For beginners, paint pen sets with 20 or more markers are good choices. You can't buy individual paint markers so if you want to add more colors, try smaller sets with the colors you need. Some brands have only black or white sets, while others sell metallic sets.
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Drying/Curing Time
Water-based paint markers dry faster than oil-based markers. Also, matte finish paint pens dry faster than metallic and glossy-finish paint pens. When applied to wine glasses or ceramic mugs, some oil-based markers need slow heating in the oven to keep them dishwasher-safe.
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Durability
Oil-based paint pens are more durable than water-based pens, and they are also more lightfast, meaning they don't easily fade when exposed to sunlight. Both are permanent, but oil-based pens reactivate when exposed to excessive heat unless cured.
Paint Markers for Wood FAQ
1. Do paint pens bleed on wood?
Mix 4 parts white glue with 1 part water until the consistency is even. Apply over the unpainted wood surface. Let the glue dry, then apply two more times, allowing the next layer to dry before applying the next layer.
2. Are alcohol markers good for wood?
Alcohol markers like Copic markers apply well on wood. However, they are not as opaque as acrylic and oil-based paint markers.
3. How do you seal paint pens on wood?
To seal paint pens on wood, apply the paint pens as usual, then allow them to dry well. Buff the surface with a rag to remove dust and debris. Hold the clear acrylic sealer about 12 inches away from the project you want to seal, then spray the sealer from left to right until you cover all the painted surfaces.
4. Why do you need a paint pen for wood?
Paint pens allow you more freedom to work on wood. They're also easier to use than acrylic or oil-based paints because paint pens are beginner-friendly.
5. What kind of paint do you use for wood crafts?
Both oil-based and water-based paint markers work on wood crafts. However, oil-based markers are your best bet if your project needs to be tough from scratching.
Conclusion
From the many paint markers for wood reviewed in this article, here are our top picks. The best overall vote goes to the Uni Posca 8-Color Paint Markers. It is a best seller because these water-based paint pens are non-toxic and cover beautifully, given their opaque formulation.
Close behind are the Artistro Paint Markers. It has more colors per box, but it also applies on various surfaces, is non-toxic, and is odorless.
Looking for metallic markers? Our choice is the Dapawin Oil-Based Paint Markers. These oil-based paint pens have durable tips that don't easily fray. On top of that, the set comes with a full refund or free shipping replacement guarantee for risk-free purchases.