Whether you’re new to working on canvas or want your kids to design or paint on it with markers, you’re probably wondering, “Can you use markers on canvas?” The good news is yes! If you love creating art on canvas, then you’re in luck because there are many types of markers that work well on it.
In the following article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about the use of markers on canvas. Check it out and discover.
Contents
What kind of markers to use on canvas?
First, learn what canvas is. It’s a strong, heavy-duty, woven cloth, which a lot of artists prefer for their work, typically when painting. Sometimes, it’s referred to as a plain-woven fabric, which is made from cotton, too.
Artists use it because it is durable, water-resistant, and waterproof. They also love the strokes that they can create with it when painting.
However, you’re probably thinking right now on which markers can produce excellent results on canvas, and the answer is below. Keep reading to find out which marker is the most ideal to use in the specific outcome you’re expecting to get.
1. Alcohol-based markers
As the name suggests, these markers are made of alcohol combined with dry ink. Brands like Prismacolor and Sharpies are known alcohol-based markers, which are easily blendable and have quick drying time. Many are also replaceable; thus, they’re money-saving. The ink also lasts a long time, so artists looking for a permanent marker can depend on them.
2. Water-based markers
There are certain types of water-based markers, such as those made with a water solution and the others alcohol solution. In the simplest terms, these markers are types of watercolors. A few other markers contain a combination of glycerin and water.
Why use water-based markers on canvas? Just like acrylic paint markers, they work well on canvas, so painters can make smooth strokes. Once dried, water-based markers are also long-lasting so that they can stay on canvas without any problems. They also don’t leave permanent ink. The only downside is that they take a longer drying time than an alcohol marker, and they don’t produce colors as clear and vibrant.
Commonly, students and children use water-based markers, although other pros sometimes use them as well.
3. Acrylic paint markers
They do not fade fast; thus, they can produce long-lasting art. Not to mention, artists appreciate its smooth surface so that they can make excellent strokes, too. In addition, they are easy to work with because they’re permanent and fast-drying. Acrylic markers are also opaque. A few notable brands are Arstistro, Penguin Art Supplies, and Arteza.
4. Oil-based markers
Oil-based markers are less streaky and can dry faster than a water-based marker. However, they can take a longer time to dry than an acrylic marker, although both can be used on similar surfaces.
Just like the rest featured earlier, they work well on canvas, too, because they are water-resistant and permanent. Oil-based markers are also AP-certified, so they are versatile to work on any surface, such as canvas. They also have fine tips, so they glide smoothly, and never jam.
What to know about using markers on canvas?
Take note that not all types of markers behave the same on canvas, although can help you make artistic pieces with them. They can support you in making great masterpieces that can last a long time.
However, acrylic tends to work best on canvas, so most artists prefer it when painting on canvas. If you do use acrylic-based markers, you can expect a mirror-like finish once your work is dry.
Another good thing is that you don’t need to wait a long time for the painting to dry because acrylic dries fast. In this case, making another stroke using the same shade or color won’t be a problem. Best of all, your creation will last long and stay scratch-resistant.
On the other hand, water-based markers’ primary characteristics include producing broad and fine strokes and their ink can absorb well to stay long on your masterpiece. When mixed with water, they impressively combine with it.
If you want to improve your painting skills with water-based color markers, choose those with solutions and inks, which you can remove and that dry quickly for ease of use.
But besides acrylic and water-based markers, you can use alcohol-based markers, too. A noticeable characteristic of this marker is it soaks quickly on canvas. Now if you would use Sharpie paint pens and other similar items, you should take note of using larger nibs; otherwise, you’ll notice that smaller ones do clog quickly. The good thing about this is that you can use another color for blending even if the first one isn’t dry yet.
There you have what to know about the different markers that you can easily use on canvas. Depending on the outcome you’re looking for, determine which marker is best used for your art.
Final Thoughts
Markers can help you come up with detailed and intricate painting designs. And definitely, working with them is rewarding because they work well and glide perfectly on the canvas without a glitch. If you’re ready to experiment with different types of markers on canvas, go ahead and discover what works well for you.
There are many types of markers to use on canvas, including water-based, oil-based, acrylic, and alcohol-based. However, each of them has specific characteristics that make them uniquely apart from each other. In this case, consider the kind of output you’re looking for when choosing among these markers on canvas. But nevertheless, they’re reliable in terms of making artful pieces because they can last long and are easy to use.
We hope that we’ve shed light on the question, “can you use markers on canvas?” The next time you’re faced with the same situation of thinking about whether or not to use a marker on your canvas, you’d know the answer.
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