In this article, I will show you how to write calligraphy with a marker. While traditional calligraphy is focused on using traditional materials to write calligraphy modern calligraphy uses all kinds of modern materials to create amazing written art.
But let’s start at the beginning.
Is it Possible to Do Calligraphy With a Marker?
It is possible to write calligraphy with a marker. This way of writing calligraphy is called “modern calligraphy”. All kinds of markers can be used to write calligraphy but markers with a flat tip or a flexible brush-like tip generally work best.
I personally love to use markers especially when I am sketching an idea, if I want a smooth transition between colors, or if I am drawing on a different colored surface.
Like with nibs, there are different styles of tips for markers either broad flat nibs or pointed thin nibs that can be used to write calligraphy.
So let’s take a look at the type of markers that can be used to write calligraphy.
What Kind of Markers can be Used for Calligraphy?
Copic Markers
When it comes to colored markers I usually like to use Copic markers.
These markers come in a huge variety of colors, and sizes.
Usually, they will have two tips. One is a broad tip and the other a brush tip.
They also mix very well! There really is only one big drawback, the broad tip is not thin. It is very broad and as such, you won’t be able to do any fine calligraphy with them.
Calligraphy Markers
Other Markers I really like are Kuretake calligraphy markers.
They come in a whole lot of colors as well.
They don’t tend to mix that well though. But they also come in pigmented special colors like gold or silver.
You can use black paper to do some amazing-looking calligraphy art.
The tips of these pens are broad as well but unlike the Copic markers, they are quite thin.
You don´t have to use these markers, they are just my favorites to use, when it comes down to it, you can use whatever markers you want.
J
What Paper to Use?
The paper has to absorb the inc well, it should not bleed and you should be careful with paper that has a lot of texture.
There are a lot of different kinds of papers out there that are made for markers.
Pretty much all of these will do just fine!
Because you aren’t scratching with a metal nib over the surface of these papers, unlike in traditional calligraphy, you don’t need to be all too careful in choosing the right paper here.
If you have a pigmented ink marker then you could also try some dark or black papers if you want to.
Reasons Why Markers Stop Working
There are plenty of things that might cause a Marker to stop working properly.
Markers Dry Up
You should not leave markers out in the sun or a very warm room for too long, as they will dry up.
Copic markers are refillable but Kuretake Markers are not.
Copic Markers can be “Revived” with some rubbing alcohol if you are lucky. Just pull the tip out with a pair of pliers and put a few drops of rubbing alcohol in the marker.
Then put the tip back in, cap the marker, and shake it for about a minute. After that just leave the marker for a few hours and then try drawing with it again.
If you are lucky your marker will work again. This only works with alcohol-based Markers!
If you want to learn more about Calligraphy then you can check my complete and free calligraphy guide out here!
Markers are Empty
You will often be able to write multiple hours with a marker before it runs out of ink.
Most of my markers work for at least 30 hours of work time before they run out.
Once they do, you have to throw them away. Some, like Copic markers, can be refilled but most calligraphy markers can´t.
Hi, I am a passionate maker and professional prop maker for the entertainment industry. I use my woodworking, programming, electronics, and illustration know-how to create interactive props and puzzles for Escape Games and marketing agencies. And I share my knowledge and my experience on this blog with you so that you can become a maker yourself.