Marker Magic 101: Choosing the Right Markers for Beginners

So, you’re ready to dive into the colorful world of markers? Whether you're dreaming of smooth color blends, juicy brush tips, or simply a set that won’t break the bank—this guide has your back (and your sketchbook).

✨ Why Markers Are a Big Deal

Markers aren’t just for kids or classroom posters anymore. They’ve become a go-to tool for artists, journalers, colorers, and creative dabblers alike—and for good reason! They’re fun, fast, vibrant, and super versatile.

But with so many types out there—brush tips, alcohol-based, dual-ended, watercolor-style—it can be totally overwhelming to know where to start.

Let’s break it down.

🖌️ Types of Markers: What’s What?

Before we dive into specific brands, let’s talk about the two major types you’ll probably come across:

1. Water-Based Markers (Beginner-Friendly)

These use water as the base and often feel more like the traditional markers we all know. They’re good for blending with water, are non-toxic, and don’t bleed through paper as easily.

Best For:

• Coloring books

• Journaling

• Brush lettering

• Watercolor effects

Popular Options:

• Tombow Dual Brush Pens (Heather Rae’s fave!)

• Crayola SuperTips (super affordable and surprisingly versatile!)

2. Alcohol-Based Markers (More Advanced)

These use alcohol as a solvent, which allows for seamless blending and professional finishes. But heads up—they do bleed through most paper, so marker-safe paper or a protective cover sheet is a must.

Best For:

• Layered coloring and shading

• Illustrations

• More advanced blending techniques

Popular Options:

• Ohuhu Brush Markers (great price, amazing quality = win-win)

• Copic Sketch Markers (the gold standard, but pricey)

💰 Budget-Friendly Picks (for Beginners Who Want More Bang for Their Buck)

If you’re just starting out and don’t want to spend a fortune, these options are beginner-approved, wallet-happy, and super fun to use:

🖍️ Tombow Dual Brush Pens

• Water-based
• Dual tip (brush & fine point)
• Blends well
• Great for hand lettering, coloring, and layering
• Come in pre-made color palettes 
• Tip: Use a water brush to turn them into watercolors!

🖍️ Ohuhu Alcohol Brush Markers

• Alcohol-based
• Dual tip (brush & chisel or brush & fine)
• Incredible color range
• Smooth blending—great for more polished coloring pages or artwork
• Tip: Use marker paper or put a protective sheet behind your page to avoid bleed-through!

🖍️ Crayola SuperTips

• Ultra-budget-friendly
• Fun for beginners and kids-at-heart
• Less fancy blending, but still super versatile

🎨 So… Which Should You Choose?

That totally depends on what you're planning to do!

🛍️ What About Fancy Artist Sets?

You’ll see brands like Copic pop up on every pro artist’s list—and yep, they’re amazing. But they’re also expensive. If you’re just starting out, we recommend building skills and confidence with Ohuhu markers first. Then, if you’re ready to splurge, go ahead and upgrade!

📌 A Few More Tips Before You Buy

• Test your paper! Some markers bleed more than others. Always do a test swatch and keep a protective sheet under your artwork.

• Swatch your colors. The caps can lie. Use a color swatch sheet (like the one from Artsyfartsy Press!) to stay organized.

• Go slow. You don’t need the giant 120-marker set (yet). Start small and build as you go.

🌈 Let’s Get Colorful!

Markers open up a whole new world of creativity—whether you’re journaling, coloring, doodling, or making art for your wall. The key is starting where you are, trying different tools, and having fun with it.

And don’t forget—Artsyfartsy Press has a Pinterest board full of color palette ideas so you can test your new markers in style. 🎨💕