Chalk markers are the modern version of your traditional chalk sticks. But how do you know which one’s right for you? This guide covers everything you need to know about this revolutionary tool.
What Is a Chalk Marker?
A chalk marker is a marker that releases liquid chalk from its tip. This chalk dries up as regular chalk and is a useful and clean way to write or draw on chalkboards without the dust. Many of these chalk markers come in different colors for added variety and customization.
Why is it important to have a Chalk Marker?
It’s cleaner
One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional chalk sticks is that they’re incredibly dusty. Try remembering the days back at school, where you had to clean the erasers and sweep chalk dust off the floor (if your school required you to do so). This not only served as an inconvenience to some but also posed health risks to others due to the presence of dust in the air. It may be nostalgic, but definitely not ideal.
Chalk markers, however, change all that. The markers use a liquid chalk formula that, when applied, do not release dust. Once the liquid chalk dries, it sticks just like regular chalk, and you can remove it fairly easily with a wet paper or cloth towel. Do note that you will need a wet towel to clean the chalk without getting dust everywhere, however, since at the end of the day, it’s still chalk.
It’s easier to write with
If you ever tried writing or drawing on a chalkboard with a chalk stick, you would have noticed the difference in your writing style. You can’t just hold a chalk stick the same way you would with a pen or marker. The stick would often be too short to do so, and even if it was long enough, most handwriting styles would result in the stick breaking from the pressure. The result is you holding the chalk stick in an awkward manner that may make it a challenge to write legibly with.
This is different with a chalk marker, though. Because of its length and durability, you can grip it and write with it the same way you would with a pen or a marker. This opens up more creative freedom for those interested in making chalk art and allows you to write more legibly with your own styles.
Tips When Using a Chalk Marker
Keep a wet towel ready
Chalk markers are cleaner than chalk dust when it comes to application. There isn’t any leftover dust that falls off every time you make a stroke, nor does any excess chalk end up on your hands. However, once the liquid chalk dries, it becomes the same as ordinary chalk, and if you clean it with an eraser, for example, you’ll still end up with some dust. If you’re using chalk markers for the sole purpose of cleanliness, this is the last thing you’d want.
Therefore, you may want to keep a towel ready at all times. This can either be paper or cloth, but it’s important that the towel is damp or wet. The wetness of the towel allows it to easily absorb the chalk without it falling and flying around in the air. Cloth towels are a great reusable material, whereas paper towels are great for instant cleanup and less maintenance. Go with whatever you find is more useful to you.
Chalk Marker Price Range
Chalk markers aren’t made out of just chalk, so they do cost more than your traditional chalk stick. A small pack of markers can cost less than $10, and those with more colors can go for up to $20 depending on the brand. These sets may also come with additional accessories, such as erasing sponges.
Chalk Marker FAQ
Q: Are chalk markers erasable?
A: Chalk markers function very similarly to chalk, and are erasable on non-porous surfaces.
Q: What surfaces can you use chalk markers on?
A: Chalk markers can be used on any flat surface. However, they can only be easily cleaned from non-porous surfaces, as porous surfaces will allow the liquid chalk to settle in and make it more difficult to clean.
Q: Are chalk markers safe for car paint?
A: Chalk markers don’t stick on non-porous surfaces, and as such are ideal for car windows and surfaces.