Art Markers Explained: POSCA, Paint Markers and Dual-Tip Markers

Posted by

Haanz Team

2026-10-18

On 2026-10-18

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

Markers are quick, bright and mess-free, but the word covers very different pens. This guide explains the main types of art markers: POSCA and other paint markers that work on almost any surface, alcohol markers for smooth illustration, and water-soluble dual-tip markers for lettering and blending with water. You will learn what each one does and which to choose.

Types of art markers

Paint markers: pens filled with opaque paint. They cover dark surfaces and work on paper, wood, glass, stone, metal and plastic. POSCA is a well-known brand of water-based paint markers.
Alcohol-based dual-tip markers: smooth, blendable colour with a broad chisel tip and a fine tip. Popular for illustration, manga, fashion and product design.
Water-soluble dual-tip markers: a brush tip and a fine tip, with ink you can blend with a wet brush. Good for hand lettering, colouring and journals.

POSCA markers and tip sizes

POSCA markers contain water-based pigment paint that is opaque and odourless. They show up brightly on paper, card, wood, glass, stone, metal, plastic and fabric, and you can layer colours once the first coat is dry. The model number tells you the tip:

PC-1M: extra-fine 0.7mm bullet tip, for fine details and small lettering. 12 pen set, 8 pen set and 16 pen set, plus single Black and White.
PC-3M: fine 0.9–1.3mm bullet tip, an all-round size. 8 pen set, 16 pen set and single Black and White.
PC-5M: medium 1.8–2.5mm bullet tip, for colouring larger areas. 8 pen set, 16 pen set and single Black and White.
PC-8K: broad 8mm chisel tip, for big areas, signs and bold lettering, in Black and White.

Other markers we stock

Dual Tip Water Soluble Marker: sold individually, with a fine tip and a brush tip.
Touch Dual Tip Art Markers (12 pack): broad and fine tips for smooth, blendable colour in illustration and design.
Acrylic Marker Painter 6 pcs Set: opaque acrylic paint pens for rocks, mugs and craft.
Paint Marker Pen 3mm: in Black, Gold, Silver or White, for signs, glass, cards and labelling.

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

Which art markers should you choose?

Rock painting, wood, glass and decorating: POSCA or acrylic paint markers.
Illustration and manga: alcohol dual-tip markers on smooth paper.
Hand lettering and journals: water-soluble brush-tip markers.
Highlights on dark paper: a white POSCA, or see our white gel pen guide.

How to start a new POSCA marker

With the cap on, shake the marker well. You should hear the ball inside rattle.
On scrap paper, press the tip down gently a few times until paint flows into it.
Test the colour, then start your design.
Close the cap firmly after use and store the marker horizontally.

Tips for good results

Let each layer dry before adding another colour on top.
Test on scrap paper or a hidden spot first, as some inks bleed on thin paper.
Use thicker paper for markers; see our drawing paper guide.
On items that will be handled, such as rocks, a coat of clear varnish helps protect the design.

Frequently asked questions

Are POSCA markers permanent?

On porous surfaces such as paper, wood and stone they are long-lasting once dry. On smooth surfaces such as glass they can usually be removed, so seal designs you want to keep.

Can I use POSCA on fabric?

POSCA works on fabric. For clothes that will be washed often, fabric markers and fabric paint are made for that job; see our fabric painting guide.

Which POSCA size should I buy first?

PC-3M is the most versatile. Add PC-1M for fine details or PC-5M for colouring larger areas.

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 markers for your project.

More Haanz Art Guides