Sharpie markers: a handy guide for every desk

Sharpie markers are one of the first things we reach for when a label, a note or a sign needs to be seen. The ink is bold, the pens are easy to hold, and they turn up in offices, classrooms, workshops and kitchens all over the country. At A2B Office Supplies, we know a good marker can save time every single day, so we have put together this simple guide to help you pick the right one.

Why people reach for Sharpie markers

The first reason is simple: they are easy to read. A clear black line on a box, a folder or a whiteboard card can be spotted from across the room. That makes these pens handy for anyone who needs to label, sort or organise.

The second reason is how many jobs one pen can do. Many Sharpie pens are known for permanent ink that works on lots of surfaces, such as paper, card, plastic and more. Always check the packaging on the pen you buy, because each type has its own uses. You can browse our full range of Sharpie markers to see what is on offer.

Here are a few everyday jobs where we see them used most:

• Labelling storage boxes, files and folders
• Writing names on bags, bottles and equipment
• Making signs and posters for meetings or events
• Marking up packages before they are sent
• Colour coding notes, diaries and planners

Choosing the best marker pens for your desk

The best marker pens are the ones that suit the job in front of you. A pen that is perfect for a big sign may be too thick for a small label. So before you buy, think about three things: the tip size, the colour and how you like to use the pen.

Think about the tip

A fine tip gives you neat, small writing. It is great for forms, labels and notes where space is tight. A broader tip gives you a bolder line, which is better for signs and headings. If you write a lot of small details, a fine point is usually the easiest to control.

If you like a pen that is always ready, a retractable style is worth a look. There is no cap to lose, and you simply click to start writing. Our retractable black pens in a box of 12 are a good fit for busy desks, shared stationery cupboards and teams that get through plenty of pens.

Think about the colour

Black is the classic choice, but colour can make your work easier to follow. Blue is a calm, familiar shade for notes and everyday writing. If you want to keep things tidy, a box of fine blue pens gives you plenty of spares for the whole team. Choosing one colour for each type of job, such as blue for notes and black for labels, helps everyone know what they are looking at.

Getting the most from your pens

A few small habits will help your pens last longer and work better. None of them takes much effort, and they can save you from reaching for a dried-out pen right when you need it.

1. Put the cap back on firmly after every use, so the tip does not dry out.
2. Store pens as the packaging suggests, often lying flat or tip down.
3. Test a new pen on a scrap of paper first, especially if the surface is new to you.
4. Keep a few spares in a drawer, so you never run out in the middle of a busy day.
5. Use different colours for different jobs, so notes and labels are easy to tell apart.

Red is a useful colour to keep close by. It stands out on a page, which makes it handy for corrections, deadlines and anything that needs a second look. A box of fine red pens means every desk in the office can have one within reach.

It is also a good idea to think about who will use the pens. In a school, a home office or a busy workplace, a larger box means fewer trips to the cupboard. Buying in boxes can make it easier to share pens out and keep track of what you have.

FAQs

Is the ink permanent?

Many Sharpie pens use permanent ink, which is designed to stay put once it dries. Not every pen is the same, so check the packaging on the exact pen you plan to buy.

Will the ink show through thin paper?

It can on very thin paper, as bold ink sometimes soaks through. We suggest trying the pen on a scrap piece first. If you want to protect the page underneath, slip a spare sheet behind it.

How do we stop a marker drying out?

Always replace the cap straight after use and press it on until it clicks or sits firmly in place. Store the pen as the packaging advises, and keep it away from heat and direct sunlight.

Stock up on Sharpie markers today

Sharpie markers are a simple, handy way to label, sort and mark almost anything. The best marker pens for you depend on the tip, the colour and the job, so take a moment to think about how you will use them. A little care with caps and storage will keep them working for longer.

Ready to restock the stationery cupboard? Have a look through the Sharpie range at A2B Office Supplies, pick the pens that suit your team, and add them to your next order today.