The 6 Best Watercolor Markers for Artists in 2024 – Artchive (2024)

Markers hold a special place in the heart of many artists and crafters, the diverse colors, the smoothness when you lay them down on paper, the pigment intensity… There are a lot of different reasons why markers are one of the most popular mediums for creatives.

From arts and crafts to design and architecture, alcohol based, water based and paint based markers are always a must in any creative’s toolkit, however none of these managed to capture the beauty watercolors can add to a piece. That was until watercolor markers were introduced.

These unique markers bridge the gap between the vibrant, bold strokes of traditional markers and the delicate, blendable nature of watercolors. With the ability to dilute, blend, and create gradients, watercolor markers have revolutionized the way artists approach their work, offering a fusion of the best of both worlds.

In this article we’ll talk a bit more about watercolor markers and learn how to identify and choose the best markers for your craft. Additionally, we’ll give you a hand picked and curated list of the best watercolor markers available in the market today so you can easily choose from the cream of the crop.

What Are Watercolor Markers?

As their name suggests, watercolor markers are a fusion of the traditional watercolor medium and the convenience of a pen, they offer artists the ability to paint with precision, without the need for brushes or palettes. Unlike regular markers, they can be diluted and blended with water, mimicking the effects of traditional watercolor paints. The main components of these markers are a reservoir of watercolor ink and a tip (often two different ones) that allows for varied strokes and techniques.

Why Are Watercolor Markers Different Than Water-Based Markers?

Due to the overwhelming number of markers and brands available it’s easy to confuse watercolor markers with water-based markers, especially since some brands started mis-labeling their products, which leads to very disappointed users and ruined experiences.

The terms “watercolor” and “water-based” might sound similar, but they refer to different properties, while both watercolor and water-based markers use water as a solvent, the term “watercolor” specifically refers to the paint’s ability to be diluted and blended with water after application.

Watercolor markers contain pigments that can be reactivated with water, allowing for blending and layering. In contrast, water-based markers, once dry, usually remain fixed and are less blendable.

Pigment-Based Markers vs. Dye-Based Markers

Understanding the difference between pigment and dye-based inks is very important, since it can significantly impact the outcome of your work.

Pigment-Based Inks are made of tiny, encapsulated particles that sit on top of the paper. They are known for their longevity and resistance to fading, making them ideal for artworks meant to last. However, they might undergo slight color shifts over time.

Dye-based inks are absorbed into the paper and are celebrated for their vibrant and bright colors. They offer a broader color range but are much more susceptible to fading, especially when exposed to sunlight.

What to Consider when Buying Watercolor Markers

Presentation and Use

Watercolor markers often come in sets, ranging from basic palettes to extensive collections with a wide spectrum of hues, before thinking of getting any of them, make sure to double check what they include. Depending on your project or style, you might need a basic set or a more comprehensive range of shades, think about whether you want just the primary colors or a broader palette that includes secondary and tertiary shades.

Many watercolor markers offer dual tips – a fine point for detailed work and a brush tip for broader strokes. Consider the kind of work you’ll be doing most often. If you’re into detailed illustrations, finer tips might be more beneficial while for broader washes and blending, brush tips are ideal.

If you’re an artist on the go, consider how the markers are packaged. Some sets come with travel-friendly cases, making it easier to transport and protect your markers, some need to be stored horizontally and some need special care, make sure to double check too whether you can use refills or buy separate units from the brand you pick.

Lightfastness

Lightfastness refers to the ability of a pigment to retain its color over time without fading when exposed to light, this is a crucial factor for artists, especially if the artwork is intended for display or sale.

Lightfastness is often rated on a scale, with I being excellent and V being poor. When choosing watercolor markers, look for those with a rating of I or II to ensure longevity in your artwork, especially if you’re creating pieces that will be hung in well-lit areas or exposed to sunlight, since fading can drastically change the appearance and value of an artwork over time.

While selecting markers with high lightfastness is crucial, you can also take additional measures to protect your work. Using UV-protective sprays or framing artworks behind UV-resistant glass can further safeguard against fading.

Ink and Pigmentation

The ink’s composition in watercolor markers, whether dye-based or pigment-based, significantly influences the marker’s intensity, blendability, and longevity. High-quality markers possess consistent and smooth ink flow, ensuring even application, however even lower quality makers can apply evenly which is why it’s also essential to consider the ink’s stability over time, as some can fade or change color when mixed with each other or hours after the application. Lastly, for safety, especially in shared or enclosed spaces, opt for non-toxic inks with relevant safety certifications.

Remember, the type of paper you use can also significantly impact the performance of your watercolor markers, watercolor markers work best on paper that can handle moisture without warping. Additionally, the paper’s texture can influence how the marker’s pigment is absorbed and how it blends. Experiment with different textures to find what works best for your style.

Color Range

The color range of a set is just as important as the color range of a brand, while a set might offer a curated selection of colors tailored for specific projects or themes, the brand’s overall color range speaks to its adaptability. A brand with an extensive color palette shows its dedication to the art community plus ensures versatility for the artists that use the brand and need or want to get new colors and hues.

Price

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s essential to consider the value you’re getting. Higher quality markers might have a longer lifespan, meaning you won’t need to replace them as frequently.

More expensive markers often have better pigment quality, resulting in brighter, more consistent colors but the price difference can be though on limited budgets.

Best Watercolor Markers

1. Best Watercolor Markers Overall — Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor Markers.
2. Best Watercolor Markers for Professionals — Winsor & Newton ProMarker Watercolour Markers.
3. Best Watercolor Markers for Beginners — STAEDTLER Watercolor Markers.
4. Best Value Watercolor Markers — Chromatek Watercolor Brush Pens.
5. Best Budget Watercolor Markers — ARTEZA Real Brush Pens.
6. Best Watercolor Markers for Lettering — Tombow Dual Brush Watercolour Pens.

1. Best Watercolor Markers Overall — Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor Markers

Selection Criteria

• Presentation: 30 pc box Dual Tips.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Lightfastness: High Lightfast.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Refiles: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Color Range: 120 colors.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Tip: Brush and Bullet.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Pigment Intensity: Very High Pigmented.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Price: $114.61
  • Our Score: 8/10

About the Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor Markers.

For artists seeking precision combined with the classic feel of watercolors, the Faber-Castell Albrecht Durer Watercolor Markers are a top-tier choice. These markers, renowned for their dual-tip design, offer both a flexible large brush tip for broader strokes and a bullet point for intricate detailing. Their high-pigmentation water-based ink ensures vibrant colors that are also impressively light-resistant. The ability to adjust the color intensity with water adds a layer of versatility, making them suitable for various artistic endeavors. Given Faber-Castell’s reputation for quality, these markers are a reliable investment for both budding artists and professionals.

Pros

• Dual-tip design.
• High-pigmentation ink.
• Lightfast colors.

Cons

• Limited set variations.
• Pricey for beginners.

2. Best Watercolor Markers for Professionals — Winsor & Newton ProMarker Watercolour Markers.

Selection Criteria

• Presentation: 12 pc box, Dual Tips.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Lightfastness: High Lightfast.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Refiles: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Color Range: 108 Colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Tip: Bullet and Brush.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Pigment Intensity: Very High Pigmented.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Price: $43.25
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Winsor & Newton ProMarker Watercolour Markers.

Winsor & Newton, a brand synonymous with quality in the art world, brings forth their ProMarker Watercolour Markers. These markers are designed with dual tips, offering both bullet and brush options, and come in a set of 12 fundamental shades. Their high pigmentation ensures brilliant colors that stand the test of time. The markers’ versatility is evident in their application – they can be used on both dry and wet surfaces and blended seamlessly. For artists looking for a blend of tradition and innovation, these markers are an excellent pick.

Pros

• Dual-tip versatility.
• Seamless blending.

Cons

• Limited color range.
• Reported ink flow issues.

3. Best Watercolor Markers for Beginners — STAEDTLER Watercolor Markers.

Selection Criteria

• Presentation: 36 pc Dual Tips.
  • Our Score: 10/10
• Lightfastness: Not Specified.
  • Our Score: 7/10
• Refiles: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Color Range: 36 colors.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Tip: Fine and Brush.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Pigment Intensity: Good Pigmentation.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $21.42
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the STAEDTLER Watercolor Markers.

STAEDTLER’s watercolor markers are a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. With a set offering 36 essential shades, artists have a broad palette to choose from. The dual-tip design, featuring a fine point and a brush tip, caters to varied artistic needs, from detailed sketches to expansive color fills. While they are water-based, their formulation ensures minimal paper saturation, preserving the integrity of the artwork. These markers are ideal for artists who value precision and versatility in their tools.

Pros

• Wide color variety.
• Dual-tip precision.

Cons

• Limited Color Range
• Requires 300 lb+ paper

4. Best Value Watercolor Markers — Chromatek Watercolor Brush Pens.

Selection Criteria

• Presentation: 50 Watercolor Pens, 4 Blending Brush Pens, 15 page Professional watercolor paper.
  • Our Score: 10/10
• Lightfastness: Not Specified.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Refiles: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Color Range: 50 colors.
  • Our Score: 7/10
• Tip: Brush.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Pigment Intensity: Normal Pigmentation.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Price: $39.95
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Chromatek Watercolor Brush Pens.

For those seeking comprehensive watercolor solutions, Chromatek’s set is hard to overlook. The package, boasting 50 watercolor markers, also includes blending brushes, watercolor paper sheets, and a tutorial pad – all at a competitive price point. While the markers offer standard pigmentation, their nylon brush-style tip provides controlled coloring, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned artists. Their versatility in blending and color mixing ensures a wide range of artistic possibilities.

Pros

• Affordable Price
• Wide color range

Cons

• Average pigmentation.
• Nylon tip wear.

5. Best Budget Watercolor Markers — ARTEZA Real Brush Pens

Selection Criteria

• Presentation: 24 pc box.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Lightfastness: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Refills: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Color Range: 96 colors.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Tip: Brush
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Pigment Intensity: Normal Pigmentation.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Price: $24.99.
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the ARTEZA Real Brush Pens.

ARTEZA’s Real Brush Pens are a celebration of variety and quality. Available in sets ranging from 24 to a whopping 120 colors, they cater to artists who crave diversity in their palette. The brush tip, slightly longer than typical markers, ensures a smooth ink flow, making them apt for large area fills. Their water-based nature requires the use of medium to heavyweight paper, but the results are vibrant and lasting. For artists who love experimenting with shades, these markers are a treasure trove.

Pros

• Extensive color range.
• Long brush tip.
• Versatile blending

Cons

• Lightfastness unspecified.
• Tip flexibility issues

6. Best Watercolor Markers for Lettering — Tombow Dual Brush Watercolour Pens.

Selection Criteria

• Presentation: 10 pc box.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Lightfastness: Not Specified.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Refiles: No.
  • Our Score: 8/10
• Color Range: 108 colors.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Tip: Brush and Fine Tip.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Pigment Intensity: High Pigmented.
  • Our Score: 9/10
• Price: $16.99
  • Our Score: 9/10

About the Tombow Dual Brush Watercolour Pens.

Tombow’s Dual Brush Watercolour Pens are a fusion of tradition and modernity. Available in sets of 10 with diverse color assortments, they offer up to 108 shades, providing artists with a vast canvas of possibilities. The dual-tip design ensures precision and versatility in every stroke. Their controlled ink flow, combined with the ability to blend on both dry and wet surfaces, makes them a favorite among artists. Whether you’re into lettering, crafting or art, Tombow’s markers rise to the occasion.

Pros

• 108 color options.
• Dual-tip design.
• Controlled ink flow.

Cons

• Limited set availability
• On the expensive side

Conclusions

Watеrcolor pеncils arе a vеrsatilе and captivating mеdium, bridging the gap between traditional colored pencils and thе fluidity of watеrcolors, thеy offеr artists thе prеcision of pеncil drawing combinеd with thе еxpansivе possibilitiеs of watеrcolor painting. We hope that after reading this article you’ve learned the unique characteristics of watercolor pencils, thеir applications, and factors to considеr whеn purchasing thеm. From thе unparallеlеd quality of Fabеr-Castеll’s Albrеcht Durеr pеncils to thе budgеt-friеndly options from Castlе Art Suppliеs, there’s a sеt made for еvеry artist’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for a new medium to try, embrace the challenge watercolor pencils bring to your art and most importantly have fun.

Happy Coloring!