The Pens and Markers section includes all writing and drawing implements that transfer ink or paint, stored in a barrel, through an integrated nib to a surface. These include fineliners, twin graphic markers, colouring pens, brush pens and specialist pens for surfaces such as fabric, glass and chalkboards. Please see the ‘mark-making’ section for dip pens.
What are common pen nib types? Rounded fibre nibs on standard colouring pens are described as bullet nibs and are also found on some graphic markers and most multi-surface paint pens. Chisel describes a square, flat nib commonly used in graphic markers and calligraphy felt pens. The Fineliner nibs usually consist of a fine metal tube encasing a long fine, plastic or fibre tip. Brush pen nibs are tapered and some are flexible to allow for flourished mark making.
What is xylene? Quite a number of pens are now described as xylene-free. But what is it? Xylene is a substance created from the distillation of coal tar or petroleum that is used as a solvent to thin and dry paints and inks in pens. It can be an irritant and is flammable.
Are pens refillable? Most pens are now not refillable and will need to be replaced when they run out of ink or paint. As the cost of production has decreased, the price of pens has fallen so some manufacturers no longer make refillable pens or, if they do, the cost of the refills is close to the cost of the whole pen.
What is a Paint Pen? Pens that contain pigments and dyes held in a solvent designed to go on a specific or a range of different surfaces that normal ink pens will not successfully mark are referred to as Paint Pens. They are usually fibre tipped with bullet or large chisel nibs and can be used to create banners, posters, ‘A’-signs, interior and exterior artwork, costumes and interior design items depending on the type of pen.
What is a Fabric Pen? Fabric Pens contain paints that work best on cotton materials. Although they may successfully mark other fabrics, there are a number of limitations. If the fabric is fibrous, it could clog the nib and stop the flow of paint, if it is very absorbent, it may suck through too much paint making the marks either splodge out or run and if the decorated item needs to be washable, the paint will need to be heat-fixed and so the fabric will need to withstand the heat of an iron.