Get the Facts: Alcohol-Based vs. Washable Markers

By Becky Griffith

Have you ever wondered why there is so much buzz around name brand markers? What is the difference? With brand names like Crayola, Prisma, and Copic, let’s look at what is the difference in the chemistry, cost, and uses of alcohol-based and washable makers.

Ink Base:

Alcohol-Based Markers: These markers use alcohol-based ink, which typically contains pigments or dyes dissolved in alcohol. Alcohol-based ink provides vibrant, permanent, and non-water-soluble colors.

Washable Markers: Washable markers use water-based ink, which is designed to be easily washed out with water. This makes them less permanent and suitable for kids’ art projects.

Color Vibrancy:

Alcohol-Based Markers: Alcohol markers offer high color vibrancy and are known for their ability to blend and layer colors smoothly. They produce more intense and saturated colors.

Washable Markers: Washable markers tend to have less vibrant colors compared to alcohol markers. They are generally more suitable for simple coloring tasks.

Blending:

Alcohol-Based Markers: Alcohol markers are excellent for blending and shading. Artists can achieve gradients and smooth transitions between colors due to the alcohol ink’s properties.

Washable Markers: Washable markers are not designed for blending. They tend to create distinct color boundaries when used for coloring.

Permanence:

Alcohol-Based Markers: The colors from alcohol markers are permanent and resistant to water and smudging once they dry. They are commonly used for professional artwork and illustrations.

Washable Markers: The colors from washable markers can be easily washed out from fabrics and surfaces with water, making them ideal for kids’ art, school projects, and temporary designs.

Odor:

Alcohol Markers: Alcohol markers can have a strong odor due to the alcohol solvent used in the ink. It’s recommended to use them in well-ventilated areas.

Washable Markers: Washable markers typically have a milder or no noticeable odor, making them more suitable for kids and indoor use.

Washable Marker Activity

Materials Needed:

• Coffee filters
• Washable markers (various colors)
• Water
• Small spray bottle or dropper
• String or yarn (optional, for hanging the finished art)

Steps:

1. Set up your workspace: Cover your work surface with a plastic or disposable tablecloth or a few layers of paper towels to protect it from marker ink and water.
2. Color the coffee filter: Lay a coffee filter flat on the table. Use washable markers to draw, color, and create your design on the coffee filter. You can make patterns, shapes, or just have fun with various colors. Be creative! The markers will bleed into each other when wet, so you can experiment with blending colors.
3. Add water: Once you are satisfied with your design, use a small spray bottle or dropper to add water to the coffee filter. Spritz or drop water onto the coffee filter, and watch the colors start to bleed and blend. You can add more water for more blending or less water for a more defined design.
4. Allow it to dry: Leave the coffee filter on a flat surface to dry. As it dries, the colors will continue to mix and create unique patterns. This may take some time, so be patient.