Sakura Pigma Micron Pen Sizes Explained: Which Tip to Choose

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adminhaanz

2026-10-13

On 2026-10-12

Haanz Art GuideFree, practical advice from the team at Haanz Art & Craft Materials

Sakura Pigma Micron is the fineliner many artists trust for ink drawing, illustration, comics, mandalas and journaling. This guide explains Pigma Micron sizes from the finest 003 to the bold 12, which ones to buy first, and how to make your pens last.

What makes Pigma Micron special?

Micron pens use Sakura’s archival Pigma ink, a pigment-based ink that is waterproof once dry, fade-resistant and chemical-resistant. That means you can paint over your line work with watercolour without the ink running, and your drawings stay sharp for years. The pens are made in Japan.

Pigma Micron sizes at a glance

The number on the cap is the size, not the line width in millimetres. Here is what each size draws:

003: 0.15mm. The finest line, for tiny detail, stippling and hair.
005: 0.20mm. Very fine detail and hatching.
01: 0.25mm. Everyday fine detail and small writing.
02: 0.30mm. Fine outlines.
03: 0.35mm. General drawing.
04: 0.40mm. Drawing and writing.
05: 0.45mm. Outlines and handwriting.
08: 0.50mm. Bolder outlines.
10: 0.60mm. Strong outlines and titles.
12: 0.70mm. The boldest Micron, for thick lines and lettering.

For even bolder strokes, the Pigma Graphic 1 draws a 1mm line, and the Pigma Brush gives thick and thin strokes for lettering and filling in.

Line widths are Sakura’s nominal sizes. The actual line depends a little on paper and pressure.

Which Micron sizes should you buy first?

For drawing and sketching: 005, 01 and 05 give you fine detail, everyday lines and outlines.
For comics and illustration: add an 08 or 10 for bold outer lines, and a Pigma Brush for filling blacks.
For journaling and lettering: 01 or 03 for writing, plus a Pigma Brush for headings.
For stippling and fine detail: 003 and 005.

Prices change, so see each product page for today’s price. Browse all drawing pens.

How to make your Micron pens last

Hold the pen upright or at a gentle angle and use light pressure. Pressing hard pushes the fine tip back into the pen, especially on 003 and 005.
Replace the cap straight away so the tip doesn’t dry out.
Draw on smooth paper. Rough surfaces wear fine tips quickly.
Let the ink dry for a minute before erasing pencil underneath or painting over it.
Store pens horizontally and away from heat.

Good paper matters for ink work too. See our Fabriano Accademia paper guide and watercolour paper guide if you plan to add colour.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use watercolour over Micron ink?

Yes. Once the ink is fully dry it is waterproof, so you can paint over it.

What is the difference between Micron 005 and 01?

005 draws a 0.20mm line and 01 draws 0.25mm. 005 is slightly finer and better for tiny detail.

Are these genuine Sakura pens?

Yes. We sell genuine Sakura Pigma pens, made in Japan.

Do you deliver islandwide?

Yes. We deliver across Sri Lanka in 2–5 working days, with cash on delivery, card or bank transfer. You can also visit our shops in Boralesgamuwa and Horana, open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Not sure what to choose? WhatsApp the Haanz team on 0711 515 515 and we’ll help you choose the right sizes.

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