Image: MomJunction Design Team
It might be difficult to write on glass objects with ordinary pens or regular markers. So, if you are planning to draw or write on glass, here’s our list of the best markers to write on glass for you. These markers provide you with much creative control and are reliable.
You might also need to mark the measurements on glasses during cutting or joining operations. Though other markers would also work, their ink would leave behind a stain on the glass or wipe off too easily, making the marking illegible. These special markers for glass stay on and provide bright, smudge-proof colors for your convenience. The ink doesn’t bleed or streak, and you can choose between temporary and permanent options to suit your requirements.
So, take a look at the options below to find some suitable markers for your project.
Top Picks
13 Best Markers To Write On Glass
1. Best Smudge-Proof:Kassa Fine Tip Liquid Chalk Markers
Kassa chalk markers come in a wide range of vibrant, rich colors that dry quickly and do not smudge as long as they are not exposed to water. The opaque ink of these markers also facilitates the easy blending of 2 or more colors. Each chalk marker comes with a reversible bullet and chisel point nib and all you have to do is simply pull one out and switch it with the other. These 3mm nibs are durable and the chisel nib is great for detailed lettering and writing while the bullet point is suitable for broad strokes. As a bonus, each pack comes with 2 extra nibs. These chalkboard markers can be erased easily from non-porous surfaces like glass boards, glass doors, chalkboards, mirrors, and windows with a damp cloth or paper towel. They can be ideally used for restaurant board signs, chalkboard lettering, home decor, and for other numerous purposes. This video showcasing a tester’s experience while testing the product may help you learn more about it.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Water-based
- Dustless
- Odorless
- Metallic and neon colors
Cons
- Some may find erasing it difficult.
"Having used these chalk markers extensively, I've found that their vibrant colors stand out well on all surfaces, including glass. While priming can take some patience, their ease of use once flowing is commendable. Plus, their versatility has made them find a permanent spot in my home."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 10,508 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
Quick tip2. Best Quick-Drying:Sunshilor Metallic Markers
This product comes in a set of 12 vibrant and vivid metallic colors which stand out on both light and dark surfaces, including a black background. These colors are made with water-based, opaque metallic ink and have a durable fine-point tip which is suitable for most surfaces. They are ergonomically designed with a fray-free felt tip and the barrels are such that they are convenient to hold by even the smallest hands. The convenience of using these glass writing markers is enhanced by their color-coded caps and hexagonal ‘anti-roll’ design. The removable markers for glass have a different effect on non-porous and porous surfaces—on non-porous surfaces like glass and ceramics, the ink can be easily removed using a damp cloth, while on a porous surface like wood or paper, the ink stays permanently. Check out this testing video to know more about this product.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Acid free
- Quick-drying
- Fade-resistant
- Water-resistant
- Lightfast formula
Cons
- Can dry out if the markers are left uncovered for long
"I am thoroughly impressed with how well these markers appeared on glass surfaces and dark-colored papers. While the finer tip could have been more sharp, the dual-tip feature made it easy to create minute designs. On the whole, the markers provide smear-and-flake-free performance, and the metallic colors are a nice add-on."
3. Best Wear-Resistant:Zeyar Acrylic Paint Pens
Create beautiful and permanent art on ceramic, porcelain, rock, wood, canvas, plastic, rubber, paper, and glass surfaces with these Zeyar acrylic-based paint pens. These quality-tested paint pens come in 12 assorted colors, providing vibrant hues for your DIY projects. The smooth gliding 1.2mm tip allows you to create aesthetic art using your imagination and creativity. In addition, the fade-resistant and acid-free opaque ink remains durable even in high temperatures, making these high-quality acrylic paint pens ideal for students as well as professionals.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Water-resistant
- Wear-resistant colors
- Fast-drying
- Glossy finish
Cons
- Colors might bleed on some surfaces
"My child was thrilled with these markers' vibrant colors and easy grip. They have been a nice addition to his existing arts and crafts collection. Although the opacity tends to differ based on the surface, the water-based ink is easy to erase from walls and other surfaces. So, if you are looking for markers offering hassle-free use, I will recommend these."
Kassa Fine Tip Liquid Chalk Markers Best Smudge-Proof | Sunshilor Metallic Markers Best Quick-Drying | Zeyar Acrylic Paint Pens Best Wear-Resistant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 10 | 12 | 12 |
| Ink Color | Blue,Gold,White,Pink,Silver | Multicolor | Black, White, Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet, Pink, Gold, Silver |
| Color | Neon - Fine Tip (10 Pack) | - | 12 colors |
| Dimensions | 6.4 x 5.7 x 1 inches | 1.18 x 1.57 x 0.2 inches. | 7 x 5.1 x 0.7 inches |
| Weight | 9 ounces | 2.4 ounces | 9.5 ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 10,508 | 12,222 | 161 |
| Price | $21.95 | $8.69 | $14.89 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Non-Toxic:Crayola Washable Window Markers
Crayola window paint markers come in a set of eight washable markers which are great for all glass surfaces and allow you to express your creativity in the form of writing, doodles, or drawing. They can also be used on ceramic surfaces, tiles, rocks, and more. This expert-approved marker for writing and designing on window glasses and glass boards comes in a variety of colors for creating vibrant and opaque masterpieces. As this product uses washable ink, it’s easy to clean smudges from skin and clothing. Crayola glass markers have the added distinction of being a part of the Eco Evolution by conserving energy and making their products safe for the environment. They use recycled plastic in their products, solar energy for production, and plant a tree for each tree cut to make their products. Before buying, have a look at this video of the tester’s experience for more details.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- High quality
- Versatile
- Unscented
Cons
- Some may find the colors too faint.
"Thanks to these vibrant markers, my little one and I can easily decorate our window panes. They need a few swipes to turn bold, but the clean-up is also a breeze. Hence, they get the nod of approval from this mother and son duo."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 2,836 positive reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Easy-To-Clean:Crafty Croc White Liquid Chalk Markers
This product comes in a set of 4 bright white chalk markers which contain 8 gms of ink that lasts longer as compared to the 4 gms of ink in others. These chalk markers come with reversible chisel and bullet tips that make them all the more versatile as they are good for both fine and bold work, offering more drawing options. These erasable glass markers are easy to use and easy to clean as they can be wiped away in an instant. They have premium quality nibs and amazingly bright colors with the added bonus of having free tips included. They are great to use on glass boards, chalkboards, wood, mirrors, rocks, stones, and all non-porous surfaces.
Pros
- Dust-free
- Non-toxic
- Acid-free
- Versatile
- Suitable for stone painting
Cons
- May not clean off easily
"These markers have provided vibrant white strokes regardless of the surface I used them on. While their tips felt delicate, the dual-tip design made it easy to create intricate designs. The markers even supported horizontal application, and removal was made easy when I used a wet cloth."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 2,260 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
Point to consider6. Best Washable Ink:Chalkola Liquid Chalk Markers & Metallic Colors
The Chalkola markers come in 16 vibrant colors, making them suitable for creating vibrant and eye-catching artwork on various porous and non-porous surfaces, including chalkboards, blackboards, glass boards, windows, glassware, and fabric. This pack includes ten chalk pens and six metallic markers with a six-millimeter bullet and three-millimeter chisel tips, allowing you to create thick and thin lines with precision. In addition, you can easily erase this ink from non-porous surfaces with the help of a damp washcloth. The pens are an excellent choice of markers for car mirrors, wedding cards, restaurant menus, and utensils such as wine glasses and coffee mugs. They help you create letters, drawings, and anything decorative.
Pros
- Washable ink
- Dustless
- Non-toxic
- Reversible nib
- Odorless
- Includes an activity book
Cons
- Colors may not be waterproof
- Some colors might bleed
"I’m very impressed with the vibrancy of these chalk markers on various surfaces. The colors pop on almost every surface, and the smooth application is a big plus. While some metallic shades can be difficult to blend, the overall performance of these markers makes them a decent pick."
7. Best Easy-To-Use: Expo Dry Erase Marker Set
This dry erase marker kit comes with six pens along with a cleaner and eraser — everything you need to get started. Make each page as neat and clean as possible by erasing mistakes without leaving a mark. These markers enable consistent, skip-free writing in many dazzling colors, and the low-odor ink render them a delight to use. Each glass painting pen has a versatile chisel tip that helps your writing look as broad or fine as you need.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Various colors
- Durable plastic
Cons
- Might dry out if left uncovered
8. Best Water-Resistant:Arteza Metallic Markers
One of the best markers to write on glass, these markers come in a set of 8 vibrant metallic colors. Each set includes washable colors of red, blue, purple, pink, silver, gold, and 2 greens. The markers for writing and decorating can be used on a variety of surfaces from glass to plastic, ceramic, wood, paper, and metal. These quality-tested markers are easy to erase, and have a smooth flow of ink, so you don’t have to shake the pen before using it. These water-resistant glass painting pens ensure that your design or writing stays intact without getting washed away or fading. They are safe for even children as each marker strictly conforms to the ASTM D-4236 and EN 71 safety standards.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Quick-drying
- Fade-resistant
- Stain-resistant
Cons
- The ink may be less pigmented for some.
"These metallic markers have worked well on different surfaces, including glass and resin. Despite some shortcomings, such as inconsistent drying time, the markers have successfully added a touch of charm to all my creative projects. Hence, they have me impressed."
9. Best Environmentally-friendly:Emooqi Fancy Paint Markers
Made of highly pigmented acrylic paint, these high quality, oil-based, and opaque permanent markers for glass allow you to express yourself as creatively as you want. Sold in a set of 20 bright and vibrant colors, these markers work well on paper, metal, marble, fabric, stone, wood, rubber, ceramic, and plastic as well. These acrylic-based paint pens have 3mm nibs that ensure a smooth flow of paint which is quick-drying, smear, and fade-resistant. It conforms strictly to EN-71, ASTM D-4236 safety standards and can be safely used by adults and children. Each glass marker pen is packed in a separate heat-shrink film to avoid leakage during shipping and storage.
Pros
- Safe
- Odorless
- Non-toxic
- Waterproof
- Sun-proof
- Suitable for stone painting
- Environment-friendly
Cons
- Hard to open
10. Best Food-Safe:The Wine Glass Marker
This glass marker comes in 5 metallic colors- gold, silver, purple, red, and green. They can be used to personalize wine or drink glasses at a party to avoid mix-ups. As the ink is water-based, it’s easy to erase with soap and water. These markers can also be used to label spices and other things you store in glass jars to nurture your child’s creativity by encouraging them to draw and decorate various surfaces. Apart from glass surfaces, these markers can also be used on ceramic. It’s a good idea to wait for 2-3 minutes for the ink to dry completely before pouring chilled drinks, or it can get wiped off.
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe
- Versatile
- Food-safe
- Easy to erase
Cons
- May rub off when exposed to moisture
"These wine glass markers made it very easy for me to decorate the drinkware during holidays and keep track of them when I lent them to friends or family. While most colors apply vibrantly and wash off without fuss, some may need a gentle scrub to wash off thoroughly. However, I find them very dependable and plan on repurchasing them."
Trivia11. Best Durable:Shuttle Art 48 Colors Permanent Markers
The set of permanent markers by Shuttle Art color is suitable for doodling, coloring, marking, and other creative activities. These fine point markers contain highly pigmented ink compatible with different surfaces, including plastic, wood, stone, metal, and glass. The fine tip helps you create delicate, detailed, and precise masterpieces, and the long-lasting and quick-drying ink makes your artwork durable. Moreover, these permanent markers conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards, making them suitable for adults as well as children aged three years and above.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Acid-free
- Smear-proof
- Fade-resistant
- Waterproof ink
Cons
- Some colors might be lighter than expected
"Whether crafting or writing on glass and other surfaces, these marks have always come in handy. I like how the tip enables smooth application, and the color assortment makes them great for detailed work. While the caps' colors do not match the pens, I find that a minor hassle compared to the functionality these pens offer."
12. Best Versatile:Artistro Acrylic Paint Pens
You can use the Artistro acrylic-based paint pens on rocks, stones, ceramic, wood, fabric, metal, porcelain, and glass to bestow a long-lasting vibrance to any artwork. These tried-and-tested pens for writing and decorating feature a Japanese nylon nib that allows precise control over ink flow without blotting and creating a mess. Since the pens are equipped with a 3mm medium-width tip, you can use them to fill color in a large area as well as create fine colorful details. In addition, this set consists of 12 rich-pigmented and high-quality acrylic paint pens that enable you to customize any artwork or create a new one from scratch. The markers use high-quality Italian ink and render a matte finish. Furthermore, they are easy to use, making them beginner-friendly, while their storage package makes them convenient to stash in your art supplies closet or drawer without getting them mixed up with other paint pens.
Pros
- Quick drying ink
- Prevents flooding
- Transparent barrel
- Even flow
- Non-toxic
- ASTM-compliant
- Ample coverage
Cons
- May be prone to drying up
- May contain ink lesser than expected
"These colorful markers have turned my wine parties into a creative affair. My guests love decorating the glasses and wine bottles whenever they visit. While the markers' performance on surfaces like canvas and metal has been varied, they work well on glass, which was all I was looking for."
13. Best Mess-Free:Rainbow Glass Pen
These erasable glass paint markers with rich pigments are available in ten vibrant colors with a reversible 5mm narrow and 15mm wide jumbo nibs to let you draw, write, or decorate. These are pretty useful markers for mirrors, window panes, glasses, and marker boards with a variety of long-lasting colors. The tip is designed to be reversible, so if it gets damaged or worn out, it can be taken out and flipped over. The advanced, water-based formula of this glass painting pen makes it safe to use by both children and adults. They are resistant to moisture which makes it possible to use them on exterior windows as well. As a plus, the ink can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Water-resistant
- Wipes off easily
- Mess-free
Cons
- The ink may dry up fast.
"These pens helped decorate my windows and mirrors during the holidays. I even use them for other creative projects and write my daily affirmations. Although the ink’s quantity was lower than expected, they have been reliable and continue to serve the purpose well."
14. Best Streak-Free:Cheer Collection Glass Markers
These glass pen markers come in a set of five rich and vibrant metallic colors of red, green, purple, gold, and silver that can really impress your guests as you personalize wine glasses to avoid mixing up glasses. This smudge-free, quick drying ink takes just about 30 seconds to dry, and the smooth tip of the marker ensures that the pen glides effortlessly across the surface. These erasable glass painting pens wash off easily with warm water and can be used to label and decorate mirrors, food jars, and gifts and on many surfaces like metal, plastic, and ceramics.
Pros
- Odor-free
- Streak-free
- Non-toxic
- Easy to use
Cons
- Ink may wear off quickly
"I've enjoyed using these markers for various glass labeling needs, and they have always delivered. The vibrant colors make it easy to identify glasses, and the ink washes off easily. The only hiccup was the dried-out marker I found in the set, but overall, they work great for organizational and creative needs."
How To Choose The Right Markers For Glass?
- Tip size and shape
This will tell you what kind of writing you can do with the pen. For thinner writing or detailed designs, you would need fine-tip pens, but for regular everyday writing, the bullet tip would work better. A chisel tip marker is great for bolder lettering and for writing on mirrors and windows as decorations. Brush tips can be used to create thin strokes and can be flattened to fill in larger surfaces. Double-ended markers have a central ink reservoir with tips at both ends. There is a brush tip at one end and a chisel tip at the other end, or a bullet tip along with a chisel tip at the other end. At the end of the day, what kind of tip size you will get will depend on your writing requirements.
- Water-based markers vs. alcohol-based markers
The next choice you’ll have to make is whether you want to buy water-based markers or alcohol-based markers, in which the dyes are suspended in either water or alcohol respectively, which then dries and leaves the color behind. This difference affects everything from cost to blendability and longevity. Typically, alcohol-based markers dry faster and last longer than water-based ones, and are sometimes referred to as ‘permanent’ markers.
- Lightfastness
The ability to resist fading is called lightfastness. If you’re writing something that you hope to preserve, it’s a good idea to buy a marker labeled as archival or lightfast, which can retain color for years. The vast majority of markers are not truly lightfast as they get their color from dyes rather than pigments, which is more likely to fade.
- Color options
There are marker sets that can offer you more color options, and what set of colors you buy depends on your personal preference. If you want to get super creative, it’s a good idea to buy markers with a lot of color options so that you never get bored when writing on glass.
- Usability
Simple things like whether the pen is easy to hold or whether the cap is easy to take off or if it rolls off the tables need to be considered. Also, ensure that they are easy to clean. Avoid buying markers that leave streaks or residue behind.
- Erasable or permanent
Markers come with a description of whether they are temporary or permanent. Choose an erasable marker pen if you need to wipe off the ink later or a permanent one if you need to keep the art or writing for longer. Some brands offer markers which are both erasable and permanent at the same time. Some types of ink are erasable but become permanent after you bake them.
- Opacity of ink
A lot of brands sell markers with vibrant but thin colors and need multiple layers to make the writing visible. Always go for the ones with thicker ink.
- Other features
Not all of the markers for glass out there are resistant to abrasion and water. There are those that get streaky or wash off easily if the glass is damp. So, make sure you look for a marker that lasts long, and sets and dries quickly. It is also very important for your marker to be leak proof because if not, it can leak into your bag or can get smudged while you are writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whiteboard markers on glass?
Yes, markers for whiteboards can also be used on glass, but some may leave a residue. Dry-erase markers can be easily wiped off, while wet-erase markers need to be dampened first. When using whiteboard markers on glass, it is best to look for markers specifically designed for use on non-porous surfaces. If the marker works on surfaces like mirrors and windows, it will likely work on glass.
2. How long do markers for glass last?
To make your writing on glass permanent, you need to buy markers that dry quickly and are marked as permanent. Check the product description to ensure you purchase a permanent marker. The life of the marker depends on how much ink it contains and how often it is used. If used frequently, it may last for about a month. If used occasionally, it could last for several months. To extend the life of the marker, prevent it from drying out.
3. What can I use to write on glass that will wash off?
To write on glass and be able to easily wash it off, use washable or erasable glass markers.
4. What can I use to write on glass that won’t wash off?
You could opt for permanent glass markers, waterproof markers, or fade-resistant markers.
Why Trust MomJunction?
After thorough research about various markers’ durability and efficiency, we have compiled this list of the best markers to write on glass. We believe that markers that write on the glass should be smooth and should not leave behind any marks. After reviewing plenty of products and keeping an eye on customer satisfaction levels showcased through high ratings and positive reviews, we have brought together the most suitable products. A buying guide has also been prepared to help you choose the right product.
The Bottom Line
Special markers for glass surfaces don’t smudge or leave behind a mark while flowing smoothly on the surface. With alcohol-based and water-based markers available, you can consider the benefits of the two to find a suitable one. While water-based ink is easy to rub off, alcohol-based ink is long-lasting or permanent. To ensure the ink stays intact, check whether the markers have the labels lightfast or archival on them. Also, ensure the markers are non-toxic, odorless, quick-drying, and acid-resistant for optimal performance. For metallic shades, we recommend the Sunshilor Metallic Markers with fray-free tips. However, consider the Shuttle Art 48 Colors Permanent Markers for a wide variety of colors. Among the neon options, our top choice is the Kassa Fine Tip Liquid Chalk Markers, featuring a combination of chisel and bullet tips.
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