Adult coloring is an anti-stress activity and a way to express your creativity. But for an optimal result, you still need to choose the right markers . Between water-based markers, alcohol-based markers, watercolor markers or even dual-tip models, it is sometimes difficult to find your way around.
In this article, we will guide you step by step to choose the markers adapted to your coloring style , according to their type, their ink and their rendering. 🎨
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🖍 1. The different types of markers for adult coloring
Not all markers are equal and each type has its own particularities. Here are the main types of markers you can use:
➤ Water-based markers: easy to use, but can leave marks
✅ Ideal for beginners
✅ Can be mixed for subtle effects
❌ May leave marks if you go over the same spot several times
🔹 Examples of brands : Stabilo Pen 68, Crayola Super Tips, Staedtler 120
➤ Alcohol-based markers: intensity and quick drying
✅ Bright and consistent colors
✅ Leaves no traces
❌ Can pass through thin paper
🔹 Examples of brands : Promarker, Copic, Ohuhu
➤ Watercolor markers: perfect for an artistic effect
✅ Gradient effects and subtle blends
✅ Ideal for backgrounds and shading
❌ Requires suitable paper and a water brush
🔹 Examples of brands : Ecoline Brush Pens, Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer
➤ Dual-tip markers: versatility and precision
✅ A fine tip for contours
✅ A brush or broad tip to fill in surfaces
❌ Often more expensive
🔹 Examples of brands : Tombow Dual Brush, Lira
➤ Acrylic markers: optimal coverage and vibrant colors
✅ Opaque pigments , perfect for covering dark surfaces
✅ Good adhesion on different supports (paper, cardboard, canvas, glass, wood)
✅ Smudge-free paint effect
❌ Quick drying , you have to work quickly to avoid streaks
❌ Not very suitable for classic gradients, but perfect for textured effects
🔹 Examples of brands : Posca, Arteza, Molotow
🔍 2. What criteria should you use to choose your markers?
Before purchasing your markers, here are some criteria to take into account:
✔ The type of ink
- Water-based : Great for beginners, but may leave streaks
- Alcohol-based : for a professional finish, but requires thick paper
- Watercolours : for gradient effects and an artistic finish
✔ The tip of the felt pen
- Brush : ideal for fluid effects and flat tints
- Conical : versatile, suitable for classic coloring
- Fine : Perfect for small details and lettering
✔ The color palette
Some brands offer original and deep shades , while others stick to basic colors. If you like pastel shades or skin tones, choose specialized markers.
✔ Sustainability
Some markers are refillable, which can help reduce costs in the long run .
🏆 3. Selection of the best markers for adult coloring
📌 Best markers for a consistent, streak-free finish
✅ Lira : Assorted colors, double tip, leaves no marks
✅ Tombow Dual Brush : Professional quality, original shades
🎨 Best markers for vibrant and intense colors
✅ Staedtler 120 : Rich colors, but be careful with the abundant ink
✅ Faber-Castell Pitt : Indian ink, ideal for deep shades
🖊 Best markers for precise and detailed work
✅ Stabilo Pen 68 : Excellent hold, ideal for small details
✅ Crayola Super Tips : Cheap and versatile
🌊 Best watercolor markers for artistic effects
✅ Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer : Rich, water-dilutable pigments
✅ Ecoline Brush Pens : Ultra-pigmented watercolor markers
📝 4. Tips and techniques for successful coloring
Here are some tips to optimize your coloring and avoid marks :
- Use thick paper (120 g minimum) to prevent ink from bleeding through.
- Test your markers on a separate sheet of paper before starting your coloring.
- Alternate between felt-tip pens and colored pencils to create depth effects.
- Store your markers horizontally to prevent them from drying out too quickly.
- Do not go over the same area too often to avoid streaks.
The choice of markers for adult coloring depends on several criteria: your coloring style, your budget and the desired effect.
🎨 For streak-free coloring : Choose Lira or Tombow Dual Brush markers
💥 For intense colors : Prefer Staedtler 120 or Faber-Castell Pitt
🎭 For watercolor effects : Try Ecoline Brush Pens or Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer
The best way to find your ideal markers? Test and experiment!