Image: MomJunction Design Team
People need to find ways to express themselves in a more cathartic manner. If you are a fan of art and design, then you need to get your hands on the best chalk markers. Whether you are a beginner who wants to practice the art or an educationalist who uses a chalkboard or blackboard from time to time, you will find them to be the easy and new ways for beautifying your basic blackboards. We no longer have to live in a world where blackboards only have traditional chalk-writing on them. Most people don’t enjoy writing on chalkboards due to the residue left by dusty chalks. Well, you don’t have to think further, chalk markers are basically pens and can be used to write on or illustrate blackboards. So, let’s get right into it and check out the high-performance chalk markers available online.
Top Picks
11 Best Chalk Markers Of 2024
1. Best Non-Toxic:Shuttle Art Chalk Markers
Shuttle Art’s 24 vibrant liquid chalk markers come with 30 chalkboard labels and five reversible tips. These bright, non-toxic markers can also be used on any non-porous surface as glass markers, menu board markers, meta markers, and mirror markers. The liquid chalk markers can be activated by shaking and using the press-release method. They are washable and wipeable on non-porous surfaces but are permanent on porous surfaces. This versatile and high-quality set includes gold and silver markers in addition to colorful markers.
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Water-based
- Dust-free
- High-quality ink
Cons
- Tips may take time to activate
- Markers may dry out if left unused
"The highlight of these markers is the dual-tip design that makes my writing look more stylish. Some of its shades could have been more pigmented, but their smooth gliding ink and tips make up for it. Besides, I have been using them for a while, and they are yet to run out of ink."
2. Best Reversible Tip:Blami Arts Chalk Markers And Chalkboard Labels Pack
The Blami Arts Chalk Markers are ideal for working on non-porous surfaces. This liquid chalk markers set includes gold and silver metallic markers in addition to the other variety of colors. You can use this tried-and-tested chalkboard paint to create and elaborate gilded artwork on your chalkboard without investing extra in metallic paint. What sets these chalk markers aside from the rest is the eraser sponge which is included in the set!
Pros
- Reversible tip
- Non-toxic
- Dries quickly
- Vibrant on every surface
Cons
- It may be hard to remove if left too long a specially porous surface.
"Their vibrant color palette stands out on almost every background. While they can be a bit tricky to use on textured surfaces, they ensure a smooth writing experience on non-porous surfaces. All in all, this set has served me well in the classroom setting."
Quick tip3. Best With Fine Nib:Stationery Island White Liquid Chalk Markers
Stationery Island white liquid chalk Markers are ideal for drawing on non-porous boards and glass, metal, ceramic, or plastic surfaces. These liquid chalk pens have a three-millimeter bullet nib, allowing you to create fine lines and intricate detailing. Further, these chalk pens are durable and have luminous white ink that leaves bold, bright, and vivid impressions on various non-porous surfaces.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Water-based markers
- Suitable for children and adults
- Mess-free ink
- Meets EN71 safety standards
Cons
- Inkflow may not be smooth
- May not be easy to erase
"Having used these markers for a while, I can vouch for their smoothness. They have worked well on various non-porous surfaces, including glass and acrylic. Wiping off the ink requires extra effort, but the consistent flow and pressure-resistant nibs have made them my favorite."
Shuttle Art Chalk Markers Best Non-Toxic | Blami Arts Chalk Markers And Chalkboard Labels Pack Best Reversible Tip | Stationery Island White Liquid Chalk Markers Best With Fine Nib | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 24 | - | 4 |
| Ink Color | Multicolor | Multicolor | White |
| Color | - | White | - |
| Dimensions | - | 4.49 x 2.56 x 5.63 inches | 5.12 x 1.81 x 0.47 inches. |
| Weight | - | 11.3 ounces | 1.44 ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 267 | 5,980 | 1,220 |
| Price | $15.99 | $17.96 | $6.99 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Easy-To-Use: Chalkola Liquid Chalk Markers – 10 Vintage Colors
Love using regular chalk that comes in traditional colors, but hate the dust that is left behind? You are in luck because Chalkola liquid chalk markers do not compromise on texture, pigment, and your health. High impact, concentrated colors and easy-to-use nib are features of this chalk ink marker that make it suitable for all chalkboard activities and non-porous surfaces. Post activating this chalk marker, test it on a paper to understand how it works before creating an art piece.
Pros
- Chiseled nib
- Dustless formula
- Easy to wipe off using a wet cloth
- Can be used as permanent marker on porous surfaces
- Two-in-one chisel and round tip
Cons
- The markers may dry off if not used regularly.
"I've tried these markers on my office displays and revamped RV cabinets, which turned out so good. They do need a good shake to give good ink output, but I enjoy using them because of their brightness and versatility."
Quick tip5. Best Odor-Free:Arteza Liquid Chalk Markers
Arteza’s odor-free liquid chalk marker pack includes 26 bright color markers, 16 earth-toned markers, a tweezer, chalkboard labels, sticky stencil lists, and chisel tips. These colorful chalk markers are compatible with metal, glass, wood, and plastic surfaces. Unlike traditional chalks, these no-mess liquid chalkboard markers do not produce dust, making them suitable for people with allergies. According to reviewers, these bright and long-lasting chalk markers are smudge- and ghost-free, enabling little artists to draw effortlessly.
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- Non-toxic formula
- Washable
- Replaceable tips
Cons
- Some colors might be a little sheer
- Colors may bleed
"Be it metal or glass-based surfaces, these markers offer a vibrant hue on all them all. The wide color range and reversible nibs are a boon for making intricate designs. However, I would recommend storing them upright to prevent leaks."
6. Best Easy-To-Clean:Vaci Markers Liquid Chalk Markers
Image: Vaci Markers 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 11,523 fine reviews on Amazon.
These chalk ink markers from Vaci markers are best for use as DIY project supplies, festivities supplies, wedding decor supplies as well as schooling supplies. The pack includes ten pens, 2 stencils based Christmas and holiday themes, and 16 labels to make your country chic vibe project a reality. These user-friendly decorative markers are easy to clean up by using a wet cloth on non-porous surfaces, and hence, can be used to play a fun round of Pictionary too!
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Reversible tip
- Non-toxic
Cons
- The chalk markers may take some time before the ink starts flowing smoothly.
"I love the versatility of these Vaci chalk markers! The colors pop on every surface, especially on chalkboards and deliver bright and beautiful writing. The white one I received was slightly watery, but barring that, this set has been a solid choice."
7. Best Water-Based:Uchida Bistro Broad Point Tip Chalk Marker
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 1,089 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
The Uchida chalk marker is an ideal writing utensil to use on any non-porous surface, including windows, chalkboards, light boards, and windshields. These high-quality markers are the best-in-class and have opaque, water-based, and highly pigmented ink, which is easily erased with a damp cloth. The marker must be shaken before use to ensure the tip is sufficiently coated with the pigment.
Pros
- Non-toxic and odorless
- Leaves no residue
- Available in 15 shades
- Vibrant on smooth surfaces
Cons
- May dry out quickly
- May not be easy to erase
"I have used this chalk marker on various surfaces for labeling, and its smooth writing performance has won me over. While the priming process takes a moment, once it starts flowing, it lasts well. I would recommend this marker for its reliability."
8. Best For Study Session: Chalkola Liquid Chalk Marker Pen – White
The Chalkola Liquid Chalk Marker Pen contains a set of six all-white markers. You may think white is a boring color for chalk, but nothing says elegant decor more than simple black-and-white signage. Use these white liquid chalk markers for home or wedding decor for a classic and chic vibe, as per reviewers. It goes without saying that these are one of the perfect chalk marker sets for serious study sessions and homeschooling.
Pros
- Two-in-one reversible tip
- High-quality ink
- Non-toxic, odorless, and environment-friendly
- Works smoothly on all surfaces.
Cons
- The markers may dry up if not used regularly.
"They glide smoothly, and the lean tip offers precision when writing. I love that they are easy to erase off non-porous surfaces and stay permanent on non-porous surfaces. The added labels are great for organization–I use them for labeling my kitchen spices and craft supplies."
9. Best Smudge-Free:Loddie Doddie Liquid Chalk Markers
Loddie Doddie liquid chalk markers are completely smudge-free and dust-free chalk pens perfect for various surfaces. The chalk markers’ saturated inks are quick to dry, making them smudge-proof. The versatile markers come in a pack of 24 pens, enabling you to create colorful murals, and the reversible tip allows you to enjoy the luxury of two tips in one—bullet and chisel.
Pros
- Washable ink
- Odor-free
- Non-toxic
- Child-friendly
Cons
- A few shades may not be rich rough
- May not be leak-proof
"I recently got these chalkboard markers and am pretty content with how they work. I love their vibrancy and smoothness, and the wide variety of colors is a definite plus. And while they take some time to dry, they are a solid choice for crafting vibrant, non-chalky designs."
Do remember10. Best Safety: Crafty Croc Fine Tip Chalk Markers – White
These Crafty Croc fine tip chalk markers stay true to their name and have very fine tips, so that you can create or write with absolute precision. Ideal for those who want to create intricate patterns, these chalk markers also work well for writing on chalk labels that may be too small in size. These high-quality markers are a safe choice for children, and their tips don’t fray easily.
Pros
- Odorless
- Smudge-free
- Easy to wipe off
Cons
- The tip may push into the marker if pressed very hard.
"These markers glide smoothly, and I love their vibrant, opaque quality on non-porous surfaces. The precise tip ensures clear writing, but make sure to clean the surface before using them."
11. Best Vibrant:Weisbrandt Liquid Chalk Markers
Weisbrandt liquid chalk markers are characterized by their vibrant colors and glide flawlessly on non-porous surfaces. These craft supplies are washable, non-toxic, and dust-free, making them suitable for children of all ages. Moreover, you no longer have to be worried about your child drawing on walls as these efficient markers can be wiped with a damp towel.
Pros
- Has fine and broad tips
- Non-toxic
- Bright colors
- Includes chalkboard labels
- Independently tested
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Ink may run out fast
- Colors may dry over time
"These chalk markers impress with their vibrancy on various surfaces and add a dash of color to my various household art projects. Apart from the one leaky marker, I had a pleasant experience using these."
How Do You Use Chalk Markers?
You know you have an artistic side to you when all you can think about is expressing yourself on every smooth, non-porous surface you see. We have already briefed you about the reliable and best liquid chalk markers that are available. Here is a brief on how to use them to their full potential so that you can start making your mark as soon as possible.
- Open the cap of the marker and start shaking the pen while holding it diagonally.
- Press the marker against a small section of the surface you want to try it on, not too hard, and release.
- Press again as mentioned in step 2, until the ink starts flowing out of the pen.
- Lose all inhibitions and draw!
How Do You Erase Them?
Working with liquid chalk markers is all fun and games, but it can be quite a daunting experience when you want to erase the ink from your surface. If you do not have basic knowledge about how to clean it up, you may feel lost and may not know where to begin. Lucky for you, it’s not that hard when you know all the tricks!
The first step is to wipe the chalkboard surface or any other non-porous surface that you worked on with a damp or wet cloth. Most of the time, this step is enough to have a clean slate. However, sometimes, the ink leaves behind a strong impression which is hard ro remove. This darker mark can be cleaned using glass cleaners that are available at home. If this still doesn’t work, the final step one may use is by mixing water and vinegar to wipe away the retained ink.
What To Look For In Right Chalk Markers?
- Budget and requirement
If you are passionate about your chalkboard art, you will also want to own the best professional-grade chalk markers that are available out there as your go-to creative writing tool. While most chalk markers are not very expensive, their compatibility with the desired surface plays a big role. In order to avoid spending money on liquid chalk markers that may not work out for the surface you want to use, make sure you know enough about the marker and its properties before you make a purchase or else you will be left with items that are not of much use to you. - Toxic levels
Whether it is children or adults that wish to use these liquid chalk markers, health will always take a place of priority. When choosing colored chalk markers, keep in mind that you may inhale the fumes and odor from the pens, and they may or may not leave stains on your fingers. There are plenty of non-toxic and odorless options available that are suitable for sensitive groups without affecting the quality of the product. - Porosity of surface
Porous surfaces are those that absorb water or any other liquid. This also includes ink, which means when using liquid ink chalk markers you need to be careful what surface it is being applied to. While traditional chalk can be used on most surfaces, a majority of the erasable chalk markers can be used only on non-porous surfaces. When choosing your chalk marker, make sure you read the fine print about what surface it can be used on to avoid making permanent marks on porous materials
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a chalk marker on a chalkboard?
Yes, chalk markers work on most non-porous surfaces, including chalkboards.
2. How do I keep chalk markers from smearing?
To prevent smearing, spray the surface with a sealant or hair spray. Make sure to hold the spray ten inches away from the surface and let it dry completely before applying another layer.
3. Are chalk markers permanent?
No, chalk markers are not permanent on non-porous surfaces. However, you can make liquid chalk art permanent by spraying it with a sealant.
4. Is liquid chalk the same as dry-erase markers?
Liquid chalk markers are wet markers suitable for use on non-porous surfaces, including chalkboards. Dry-erase markers also work on non-porous surfaces, but they are not suitable for wet surfaces and tend to fade quickly. Dry-erase markers are also easier to wipe off than liquid chalk markers.
5. Are chalk markers the same as chalk?
Traditional chalks are dry and easy to wipe off. They are suitable for writing only on hard, textured surfaces, such as chalkboards. Chalk markers, on the other hand, have a smooth, liquid texture and are made from pigmented inks.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have researched and reviewed multiple products across the market to bring you a list of the best chalk markers. These markers are user-friendly, stain-free, and high-quality. We have considered user feedback to offer you an unbiased opinion. Each product includes pros and cons based on the various reviews, and the included buying guide can help you choose the right markers.
The Bottom Line
Chalk markers come in different colors and textures, and you can now choose from glossy whites to metallic colors and vintage hues. The best ones are non-toxic, odorless, easy to erase, long-lasting, smudge-free, and come with a chiseled and reversible two-in-one tip. When looking for the right chalk markers, consider your requirements, the porosity of the surface you will be using it on, toxicity levels, and child-friendliness so you can have an easier time educating children in a way that leaves an impact. Our favorites include the highly pigmented Chalkola Liquid Chalk Markers and the smudge-free Arteza Liquid Chalk Markers. We also recommend the Vaci Markers Liquid Chalk Markers, which feature reversible tips.
Infographic: How To Use Liquid Chalk Markers Properly?
Liquid chalk markers are versatile writing tools that provide vibrant and smudge-free creations on various non-porous surfaces. Unleash your creativity with these easy-to-use and mess-free markers by using them correctly. Check out the infographic below to learn about tricks and techniques that can help you get the most out of liquid chalk markers.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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