What Are Art Markers? Nib Types and How to Choose
Art markers (alcohol markers) are popular for illustration and design. Many people tell us, “There are so many kinds that I don’t know which one to choose.”
This article explains, in simple terms, what art markers are, the main nib shapes, and how to choose one, even if you are just starting out.
What are art markers?
Art markers are marker pens that mainly use alcohol-based ink. They have three main features:
- Bright colors that dry quickly: you can layer colors without streaking
- Colors can be mixed (blending): colors merge into each other to create gradations
- Several ways to draw with one marker: many types have a thick end and a thin end
They are used by everyone from hobbyists to professionals, for illustration, design, sketching, manga and coloring books.
The main nib shapes of art markers
The nib shape decides how a marker feels to draw with. Here are the three typical types.
| Shape | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | Draws thin lines | Line art, lettering, details |
| Brush | Gives brush-like thick and thin strokes | Illustration, calligraphy |
| Broad (chisel) | Draws bold lines and fills wide areas | Filling in, solid color, backgrounds |
Most art markers have two nibs in one body, such as “broad + fine” or “brush + fine”.
How to choose an art marker
The key is to choose according to what you want to draw.
- Mainly line art and fine detail → one with a fine nib
- You want to fill wide areas neatly → one with a broad nib
- You want thick and thin strokes and texture in your illustrations → one with a brush nib
- You want to enjoy mixing colors → alcohol markers; start by layering a small number of colors
- Beginners → start with a set of basic colors and a brush or fine nib to avoid mistakes
The nib changes how it feels to draw
Even with the same art marker, the nib material makes a big difference to how it feels. Smoothness, ink flow and springiness depend on whether the nib is made of fiber, felt or porous plastic. Porous plastic brush nibs are also known as “rubber nibs” because of their elasticity.
If you want to draw more smoothly, or your marker skips or releases too much ink, looking at the nib itself can help you find a solution.
▶ For more about our porous nibs for markers: Marker Nibs | Porous nibs for art markers
Summary
- Art markers use alcohol-based ink. Their appeal is bright color, quick drying and blending
- Nib shapes are broad, fine and brush. Choose by what you want to draw
- How a marker feels also depends on the nib material
- Choosing a nib that suits the way you draw is the shortest way to improve and enjoy drawing
▼ For porous nibs, please feel free to contact us
We design and manufacture porous nibs for markers.
| For further information or request, please CONTACT US |
