Best chalk markers to use on blackboards, glass and ceramics in 2024

Traditionally, drawing on a chalkboard meant haphazardly sketching with a dusty stick of chalk, usually in a washed-out shade of primary colour. Writing in a small font was out of the question – if you wanted your text to be legible - and you'd be lucky if the drawing remotely resembled your intended creation!

Enter the chalk marker: a new type of pen bringing about a revolution in the way we use chalkboards. This innovative tool utilizes water-soluble chalk in pen form, allowing for optimal control and highly-pigmented drawings. And the best part? You can wipe away your work like it's drawn in traditional chalk.

As the popularity of drawing tablets and digital art increases, it's refreshing to take a step back and enjoy the tactile experience of using a pen that still offers the convenience of being erasable. Chalk pens' usefulness also extends beyond chalkboards; they can write on a wide range of surfaces such as glass, metal, plastic, and ceramic. So, go ahead and explore their versatility by trying them out on windows, glass containers, and other non-porous textures!

Our roundup includes a vast selection of colours and nib sizes to choose from, so there's something for everyone. Keep reading to learn more!

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Article updated on 21/11/2024 to ensure prices are correct and products are in stock.

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Best chalk markers to buy in 2024

Shuttle Art Liquid Chalk Pens

Best range of colours

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This collection of pens from Shuttle Art comes with a gorgeous selection of colours, allowing you the freedom to create incredible chalk art.

The set comes with replaceable tips, so you can adapt the set to suit your drawing style. These water-based pens are easy to clean off after use, making them perfect for decorating your choice of surface.

Pros

• 24 vibrant colours to choose from
• 3mm chisel tip
• 5 tips to use, plus extra chalkboard labels

Cons

• They don't come with a lot of ink
• You need to press down to get the ink to flow, which can damage the tips

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Marvy Uchida Bistro Chalk Markers

Best quality

• Buy now from Blick ($13.71)

According to reviews, Marvy Uchida's chalk markers produce a consistent flow of ink that provides excellent coverage without streaking or dripping. The markers come in a variety of vibrant colours and nib sizes, making them ideal for use on chalkboards, dry-erase boards, windows, mirrors, and other surfaces. They can be purchased individually or as a set, and although they are slightly pricier than other markers in our comparison, they should deliver lasting quality that can be easily wiped away with a cloth.

Pros

• High quality ink
• Full coverage
• Range of colours and nib sizes

Cons

• Expensive
• Based in the US

Available from DickBlick ($13.00)

Liquid Chalk Marker Pens 15mm Nib

Best broad tip markers

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For larger projects, The Rainbow Liquid Chalk Specialists' 15mm nib chalk markers are ideal. These markers with their large nibs are perfect for colouring large areas of chalkboard with a single shade. Moreover, the angled nib of the pen allows you to add finer details by simply turning it on its side. This pack includes staple colours such as red, yellow, blue, green, and white, enabling you to create classic designs that can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth.

Pros

• Broad tip
• Long-lasting
• High-quality ink

Cons

• Basic colours

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Securit 6mm Liquid Chalk Pens Earth Colours

Best earthy tones

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For a more sophisticated vibe, Securit's chalk markers in a range of earthy hues are an excellent choice. The sage green and wine red, with their muted tones, provide a refreshing change from more vibrant shades in other ranges. This pack consists of six chic shades, each with a 6mm nib, making it effortless to create new and exciting designs that can be easily wiped away.

If you're looking for more chalk-based art mediums, why not check out our picks for the best soft pastels?

Pros

• Sophisticated earthy tones
• Easy to use 6mm nib

Cons

• Not available in a variety of nib sizes

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APOGO Chalk Pens

Best pastel chalk markers

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Not a fan of bright primary shades? Go pastel with the APOGO chalk marker set, which comes with eight beautiful colours to draw with.

These pens are perfect for writing on glass or chalkboards, so let your creativity run wild! They're ideal for crafting with kids, or for decorating your home or workplace.

Pros:

• Good selection of colours
• Dust-free and non-toxic
• Reversible tips

Cons:

• Difficult to clean off blackboards – one reviewer recommended using oven cleaner

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Chalkola Metallic Liquid Chalk Pens

Best metallic markers

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If you're after dazzling and shimmering effects in your chalk artwork, Chalkola's set of ten metallic markers is an excellent choice. The rich and deep hues sparkle and gleam in a variety of colours, including gold, silver, and black. This set comes with a bold 6mm nib, but the markers are also available in fine 3mm and extra-fine 1mm tips. The reversible nibs provide even more opportunities for creativity with various mark-making techniques, and they can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Pros

• Metallic colours
• Available in a variety of nib sizes

Cons

• No plain shades included

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Chalkola 5 White Chalkboard Chalk Pens

Best white markers with assorted nibs

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A selection of white chalk markers in a variety of sizes is a staple for any craft collection, which is why we've included Chalkola's set of five white chalk pens. The set comprises an extra-fine 1mm nib, a fine 3mm nib, a bold 6mm nib, a wide 10mm nib, and a broad 15mm nib. Chalkola's white markers are perfect for creating signs or menus, with the bold nib for headings and the finer tips for text. If you're creating chalk artworks just for fun, you'll know that the first colour to run out is usually white! So these are also super handy to have around at home.

Pros

• Variety of nib sizes
• Perfect for signs

Cons

• Only one colour

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What to look for when buying chalk markers

With so many options on the market, it's easy to feel spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting the perfect chalk markers. Considering the following factors should have you clued up and ready to choose in no time!

Quality

Arguably the most important aspect to consider when shopping for any product, quality is crucial to choosing the best chalk markers. A quality marker should have a smooth and consistent flow of ink, that is highly pigmented and smudge-resistant. The nib should be firm and not fray or fuzz over time, with a pump valve system to allow the ink to keep flowing smoothly and prevent the tip from drying out.

Nib size

Make sure to check the size of the nib before buying your chalk markers. If you're creating a large-scale project, a broad nib (6mm-15mm) would be ideal. However, if you're looking to create more intricate detail, a fine nib is what you're after (1mm-5mm). The shape of the nib determines the shape of the mark on the page - there are round nibs, chisel nibs, bullet nibs, jumbo nibs, and more, which all offer unique mark-making opportunities.

Colour

There are countless variations of colourways available on the market, so have fun choosing your new favourites! You can buy chalk markers individually or in colour sets - with some sets reaching up to forty colours or more. We've included some earthy tones, pastel shades, metallic sets, and rainbow hues in our roundup, so there's something for everyone.

Price

Depending on the quality and number of chalk markers in any given set, the price will vary. If you're looking for a high-quality set of markers in a wide range of colours that will last a long time, you'll need a higher budget! However, if you're looking for some interactive, mess-free fun activities for children, you can afford to browse the cheaper end of the spectrum.

How to use chalk markers

1. Choose your surface. Chalk pens work best on non-porous surfaces, such as glass, metal, or plastic. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before you start.
2. Before you start using the chalk pen, shake it well to mix the ink.
3. Test the pen on a small area of your surface to make sure it works properly and the ink comes out smoothly.
4. Once you've tested the pen, start drawing your design. Press the tip of the pen onto the surface and apply gentle pressure as you draw.
5. If you make a mistake or want to change your design, you can use a damp cloth or eraser to remove the chalk pen ink. Make sure the surface is dry before you start drawing again.
6. After you've finished drawing, let the ink dry completely before touching it or applying any pressure to the surface.

What can chalk markers be used on?

Chalk markers are ideal for use on non-porous surfaces such as blackboard, glass, ceramics, plastic, and some metals. Unlike regular markers, they can be wiped away after use with a damp cloth. Avoid using chalk markers on porous substances such as wood or fabric, as the ink can sink in and may not wash off.

How to erase chalk marker

All chalk markers should wash off easily with water, but if the ink has been left for a long time, you can mix water with vinegar or rubbing alcohol to remove stubborn marks.

Enjoy endless entertainment with erasable chalk markers

Chalk markers are the perfect alternative to traditional sticks of chalk. With vibrant colours and superb control, you can create the ultimate removable artwork on a huge variety of non-porous surfaces. Whether you're crafting a menu or sign, labelling glass jars in your home, or creating temporary artwork on your windows, choose from our selection of the best chalk markers for the best results.

Prop up your creative collection with paint pens!

Do you enjoy the texture of chalk markers, but are looking for a more long-lasting solution? Discover the wonders of using paint pens by following Gathered's step-by-step guide and unlocking the possibilities of creating artwork on diverse surfaces like fabric and stone!