Sanford Manufacturing Company was founded by Frederick W. Redington and William H. Sanford, Jr. in 1857 at Worcester, Massachusetts. The company originally produced ink and glue, which later expanded to several other office supplies such as markers and Sharpie paint pens. The Sharpie marker reportedly debuted in 1964, while the Sharpie paint markers were introduced only in 2004. The old Sharpie markers were covered by a cap while the newer Sharpie paint pens are covered by a retractable tip.
Other than their composition, both the original Sharpie markers and the Sharpie paint pens have the same use, which is to serve as permanent writing materials on all kinds of surfaces. Basically, a Sharpie poster paint marker makes smooth and precise lines. Because paint is applied, which also has a liquid form like other indelible inks, one must shake the Sharpie paint pens before using.

Sharpie paint pens and Fabric paint pens are generally distinguished by the kinds of points they have. They range from extra fine, fine, medium, broad (bold) and to extra broad (extra bold) points. The finer the tip, the more it is suitable for use on more detailed projects. On the other hand, broad tips work best for work that does not require precise control. They are great for filling large work spaces or for working on thicker or wider lines.
Ideal Uses of Sharpie Paint Pens
- Calligraphy – One of the ideal uses of sharpie paint pens is in calligraphy. You can make cool lettering using a variety of vibrant colors.
- Artwork – Using them in various artwork is indeed one of the ideal uses.
- Labels – Since these pens can create a permanent mark to almost any surface, using them to make cool labels is a good idea.
Types of Sharpie Paint Pens
To date, there are a few design types of the latest Sharpie paint pens which are the following:
- Water-based Fine Sharpie paint pens – these are acid free and designated with archival quality. These may be suitable for use in scrapbooking and other art crafts. They are water and fade resistant. They are available in 7 colors.
- Water-Based Medium Sharpie paint pens - ideal to be used on an opaque, glossy, light or dark surface, which are available in 10 colors.
- Oil-based Fine Sharpie paint pens - ideal on glass, metal, plastic, pottery, rubber, stone, wood and as graffiti markers. They are available in 15 colors.
- Oil-based Sharpie paint pens Medium – same uses like the fine oil-based pens, only gives thicker mark. Available in 15 colors,
- Oil-based Bold Sharpie paint pen sets – Oil-based pen that gives the thickest mark. Available in 5 colors only.
Sharpie paint pens are great art materials because they can be used on any kind of surface, such as paper, glass, wood, metal, concrete, and fabric. They come in a wide array of colors, which becomes more vivid as they dry. Darker colors may be applied over lighter ones without sabotaging the work. Sharpie paint pen sets are xylene free as well as certified to be non-toxic and safe for the kids.
What is more, albeit permanent markers, Sharpie paint pens may be removed if desired. The simplest way is when the inscription is written on smooth, non-porous, glossy surfaces like a glass or mirror. One could just rub the marking off with a wet cloth. On the other hand, for non-porous surfaces, the writings may be erased using denatured alcohol. An acetone would also be another alternative. However, one must be warned that this substance is a very powerful solvent, which could also affect even the non-targeted areas.



