Posca pens are an excellent tool that can be used to help you through your artistic journey and help you create beautiful works of art. I have always been fascinated by illustration, even in my school days, which lead me to enroll in art school and become a professional illustrator after finishing at uni. I was initially working for Hallmark Cards before deciding to become a freelance.
My passion is drawing and the tools that I use help me create exactly what I have envisioned. One of these tools I always have around is a Posca pen, which is what I’m going to be discussing today. Despite the immense popularity surrounding Posca paint pens, many people aren’t entirely aware of how to choose the right one or what these paint markers can offer. I’ve jammed everything you need to know to help you get the best out of your Posca paint markers.
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What Are Posca Pens Used For?
One of the first things people typically ask me is what you can actually use Posca pens for when creating. A Posca paint marker can be used on all types of surfaces and are available to offer both temporary or permanent results. Nonetheless, these results depend on the surface you’re drawing on, but these Posca paint markers are commonly used to draw on porous materials, such as fabric, cardboard, pebbles, wood, clay pots, and particular metals and plastics.
The Best Posca Marker Pens in 2023
When it comes to deciding what are the best Posca paint pens markers, you need to consider some features. This is because it’s going to help you order the right type of Posca pen from its wide range of Uni Posca options. Here are some considerations you should make before you use these pens to leave your artistic mark:
The Width of Your Lines
Posca markers come in eight different tip sizes and construction. Here are the types that you can choose from:
- PC-1MR -0.7 extra-fine tip or ultra-fine pin tip
- PC-1M – extra-fine 0.7mm bullet tipped
- PC-3M – fine bullet tipped
- PC-5M – medium 1.8-2.5mm bullet tip
- PC-7M – large 4.5-5.5mm bullet tip
- PC-8k – 8mm broad chisel tip
- PC-17k – extra-broad, 17mm chisel tip
- PCF-350 – innovative and expressive, brush tip
It’s important to understand that all of these tips can be rinsed with water while some can also be reversed.
What You Want to Use These Pens For
The beauty surrounding these markers is that these items offer exceptional adherence to almost all surfaces while providing very little show-through or bleeding. Here are the surfaces you can use these Uni Posca paint pens on:
·Acrylic paintings– are best sealed with vanish and offer permanent results.
·Glass– offers semi-permanent results for glass displays that can be removed with cleaner or permanent results when placed on glass items and baked.
·Paper– offers permanent results for all types of paper and cardboard. This includes photos, tracing paper, and correlated cardboard. The ink in these pens doesn’t bleed through the paper.
·Plaster, concrete, rocks, leather, wax, and stone – offers the best permanent results with sealed on surfaces that are later coated thinly with MSA spray vanish.
·Ceramics –offers permanent results after being baked, but it should be used for light use.
·Fabric and Textiles-offers permanent results after being ironed, but the fabric should be reversed when ironing.
·Latex, plastic, and areas coated with plastic laminate –offers permanent results.
·Wood –works best when used on sealed surfaces and provided with a couple of thin coats of a varnish spray.
·Metal –works best on a sealed surface that has a few applications of MSA spray varnish and is an excellent option for outdoor metal works.
The Color Ranges
You can order by category when looking for a paint pen to add to your shopping cart, as this is more convenient. When selecting from these categories, you can shop by color range. These paint markers come in a range of colors to select. Here are the most common colors to choose from in the United States:
·Gold
·Silver
·Fluorescent Yellow
·Fluorescent Orange
·Fluorescent Red
·Fluorescent Pink
·Fluorescent Green Apple
·Metallic ranges
·And lots of glitter options.
The ink colors available are known to be vibrant and bright while also ensuring long-lasting effects. With that being said, the marks included on non-porous areas, like wax, are said to be removable unless sealed with a varnish.
How Can You Use Uni Posca Paint Markers?
Before applying your uni paint marker to any surface, you should start by shaking the marker up and down. This should be done with the cap on to prevent the ink from spilling. When doing this, you’re going to hear the ball inside the pen jumping around. This informs that the paint inside this marker is being mixed. From here, you can press the tip several times and apply the Uni Posca marker on a spare page of paper until you can see that the tip is filled with ink.
After you have seen this ink filled in the tip of the pen, you can start applying it to whatever surface you would like. With that being said, you must remember that this ink gets hard when it dries when applied to a porous surface. However, the ink can be wiped away with a sponge, wash cloth, or water if it’s still wet. You should account for this if you make a mistake and the ink is still wet.
Are Posca Pens Worth the Money?
Of course, no product is going to be the best option for all consumers. Nonetheless, these Posca paint pens are certainly a worthwhile investment if you want a versatile paint marker that can help you add some finer details to your artwork or spice up your scrapbooking skills. I strongly believe that any person who’s interested in exploring their artistic side is likely to benefit from purchasing these Posca paint markers.
With that being said, illustrators have the reputation of loving bright and vibrant colors, which makes these Posca markers the perfect item that all illustrators should add to their shopping cart. Not to mention, painters also typically use these Posca markers for any fine lines, details, or highlights they have in their artwork, which is why you’re likely to find these pens among their art supplies.
Moreover, sculpturers can use these uni Posca markers to color any outdoor work while curators write information in their show’s windows with these paint market products. Street artists are commonly known to use the larger Posca markers for work on brick or concrete walls. Beginners also find that the product is easy to use and offers incredible quality. The range of options is limitless when it comes to using these items, which makes these paint markers worthwhile and a certain inclusion on your next art materials order.
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best Out of Your Uni Posca Paint Pens
These Paint Pens are Water-Soluble
The paint included in these markers is water-soluble, which means that the ink can be diluted to create an amazing gradient effect. With that being said, this process can take time to ensure it dries properly. One handy tip that you can do is use a brush that’s been soaked in water before starting any project. After applying the paint from the marker, trace over it with the set paintbrush. You should do this before the paint from these markers dry.
Mix-Up the Markers
The colors of the markers can be mixed on the work surface if the paint is wet. This can be done by blurring the paint with a brush or the tip of the marker. By performing this, you can form infinite gradations of the various colors that are being mixed. If you find that the tip is stained by one of the other markers, you can easily clean it and re-prime the pen to re-stock the initial ink color.
Layer-on-Layer
Due to the markers from the Posca range being opaque and dense, the paint included in the body of the pen is ideal for layering, especially on rocks. Not to mention, this offers an exceptional appearance that even beginners can achieve. Dark colors can be applied on top of the lighter colors or the opposite way around. This layering can be performed without any smudges, due to the paint’s incredibly rapid drying time. This makes it an excellent skill for beginners to use before attempting more complex techniques.
Blow, Blow, Blow Away
You can also perform the ‘blowing’ technique, which offers rocks and any other work surface an impeccable gradient effect. You can obtain this appearance by blowing vigorously on the tip of your Posca pen when it’s filled with ink. This is the appearance commonly associated with street art and is similar to the effect offered when using spray paint. With that being said, this blowing technique is known to work best with broad tips, such as the pc-17K, PC-8K, PC-7M, or PC-5M.
Many artists enjoy the appearance of this technique because it looks like you have used a spray paint can to achieve it. Although this final look might seem tricky, it’s actually incredibly simple and even beginners have an easy time performing it. All your need to do is make sure you have the right type of pens and you’re set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Posca paint pens waterproof?
Yes, this product contains non-toxic water-based paint, which is acid-free and is called Opaque. It’s also known for being light-fast, odorless, xylene-free, waterproof, and lead-free when dry.
What is the list price of Posca pens?
Uni Posca markers are available for approximately $60 for the entire product. However, Posca offers a range of products that can vary in price from as little as $5 and upwards. Not to mention, the list price of these items can also vary depending on where you purchase these products. The good news is, many online stationary shops stock these Posca products (especially in the United States) and many of these stationary stores pride themselves on having price lists that are reasonable for our customers to order from.
How long do Posca pens last?
These paint markers are available in a range of sizes, which means that each item has a different period. Nonetheless, each paint marker is equipped with a high-quality nib that makes the pen long-lasting while stopping the pen from running or leaking.
Where can I buy high-quality paint pens?
One of the best high-quality paint pens out there are Posca Pens. In addition to being high-quality, these pens are also widely available online and in many stationary stores. This makes getting your hands on such items incredibly easy and straightforward. Take a look in your local arts and crafts store or scan the web and you’re likely to some fantastic deals on Posca Pens. You can often keep up to date on such items by subscribing to the relevant mailing list by simply submitting your email address.
What type of paint is in Posca pens?
Water-based paint is used in these markers. The pigment ink included in this pen is accompanied by a small ball located inside the barrel, which helps to mix and shake the pigment paint in the pens to the right consistency. When applying this paint inside the Posca paint pens to wood, rocks, metal, a page of paper, window glass, canvas, or any other surfaces, the application is similar to applying acrylic paint, as it’s smooth, fluid, and offers excellent coverage.
The Bottomline
You couldn’t want for anything more when choosing Posca Pens. That’s why they’re a creatives’ number one choice when it comes to picking out high-quality paint pens that are designed with the ability to effortlessly enhance the overall appearance of any piece of artwork. These paint pens work alongside your vision to capture everything you have in mind. Whether it’s highlights, a touch of color, a vibrant blast of diverse imagery, or anything in-between, these pens are the right choice for you.
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FAQs
Everything You Need To Know About Posca Pens | Big Red Illustration? ›
POSCA is a creative tool that can be used on all surfaces, providing permanent or temporary results depending on the surface. It is permanent with no real need for fixatives on porous materials such as wood, cardboard, fabric, pebbles, certain plastics and metals.
What's so special about POSCA pens? ›POSCA is a creative tool that can be used on all surfaces, providing permanent or temporary results depending on the surface. It is permanent with no real need for fixatives on porous materials such as wood, cardboard, fabric, pebbles, certain plastics and metals.
What is the best thing to draw on with POSCA pens? ›Paper – All types of paper and cardboard such as tracing paper, photo paper or cardboard. The paint does not bleed through paper. Stone, concrete and plaster – best on sealed surfaces and then with a few thin coats of MSA spray varnish. Ceramics – permanent (for light use) after baked.
What are some ideas for using POSCA paint pens? ›- Gold 'Dipped' Flower Vase. This metallic gold and white case is very easy to recreate and makes a beautiful decorative object for a table or mantlepiece. ...
- Folk Themed Trinket Box. ...
- Mark Making Box Frame. ...
- Delicate Floral Votives. ...
- Dot, Dash, and Daub HOME Letters.
It is permanent with no need for fixatives on porous materials such as wood, cardboard, textiles, pebbles, certain plastics and metals. Can I recharge my Posca? POSCA is not rechargeable. Extra tip: if your marker no longer works, it doesn't mean it's empty.
Do POSCA pens wash off with water? ›POSCA is an excellent tool for all these projects: on glass, its colours gain new depth and luminosity, and it can be washed off with water whenever you want to start again.
What does POSCA stand for? ›Posca was an Ancient Roman drink made by mixing wine vinegar and water. Bracing but less nutritious and palatable than wine, it was typically a drink for soldiers, the lower classes, and slaves.
Do POSCA paint pens wash off skin? ›POSCA markers have not been tested or certified for cosmetic use. However the paint can easily be removed with soap and water if it comes into contact with skin.
Can you rub out POSCA pens? ›rub the hand sanitizer into the posco paint. you'll see it just simply dissolve. grab some paper towel. gently wipe it off.
Are POSCA pens good for beginners? ›Uni Posca paint pens are easy to learn how to use and the colors blend very well. They are opaque, water-based paint pens.
Do you need special paper for POSCA pens? ›
No special preparation is needed to use POSCA on paper. For cardboard, remove any dust from the surface. All the POSCA techniques can be used on paper and cardboard. For a water colour effect, make sure the surface is thick enough, as the thinner the material, the more fragile it will be.
Why are my Poscas cracking? ›If the ratio of water to polymer is too high, the paint film can become cracked or crazed. 3. Are you sure that the markers were acrylic? Posca doesn't seem to say that they are acrylics.
What age are POSCA pens for? ›Uni Posca PC-3M Acrylic Marker
The quality marker impresses with its great, intense colours, the wide variety of colours and the high opacity. Fine bullet tip with a writing width of 0.9-1.3 mm. Posca is suitable for artists aged 14 and up.
POSCA paint markers work on over 50 surfaces with a wide variety of tip sizes and shapes. Express yourself with vibrant colors that are blendable and lightfast. Playful colors and sizes, easy to use and cleanup, water-based/non-toxic, and washable - a perfect alternative to traditional water-based paints for children.
Are POSCA pens safe for kids? ›Opaque, water-based acrylic paint is non-toxic and acid-free. Odorless, light-fast, Xylene-free, lead-free and waterproof when dry. Safe for use by kids! Use Posca markers on almost anything!
Do POSCA pens bleed through paper? ›Its ink is permanent on porous surfaces and removable on smooth surfaces such as glass, metal or plastic. Whilst its ink is dense and vibrant, it does not bleed through paper.
Does POSCA work on glass? ›Use POSCA on glass to gain new depth and luminosity, and it can be washed off with water whenever you want to start again. Or make permanent by curing your painted surface in an oven for up to 45 minutes at 320°F.
What's the biggest POSCA pen? ›POSCA markers are available in eight nib sizes from the extra fine 0.7mm 1MR to the big and bold 17mm chisel tip.
How do you pronounce POSCA? ›- IPA: /ˈpɔ.ska/
- Rhymes: -ɔska.
- Hyphenation: pò‧sca.
The next size up is the Fine, which draws a 1.3mm line. This is a line similar to a kids texta pen. The barrel is about the size of a fat ball-point pen. The Medium, which is probably the most popular Posca Pen for art work, draws a 2.5mm line and like the two pens before, has a bullet-tip.
Do POSCA pens smell? ›
When I scribbled the white marker through the other colors after they dried, the white reactivated the colors a bit, making them smear. Posca markers are a lot of fun, and their brilliant opacity makes them ideal to use with black and brightly colored papers. Major bonus points for being stink-free!
How long does POSCA take to dry? ›Posca Paint Markers are permanent, waterproof acrylic markers. The drying time varies depending on how thick the ink is applied but can be from 2 to 20 minutes. The ink is high-pigment and light-fast making it the perfect choice for many applications.
How do you seal POSCA paint pens? ›Once your creation is finished and dry, apply two coats of water-based spray varnish. Hold the can about 30 cm from the surface and spray in slow circular movements. The varnish can be matte or gloss depending on the look you want.
How long do you have to shake POSCA pens? ›Shake the marker well for 20-30 seconds; this will restore the correct flow of paint inside. Pay attention, during these manipulations, you should hear the movement of the ball inside. It is this ball that will help distribute the paint over the body of the marker to restore an even flow of ink.
What paper is good for POSCA? ›SURFACES: Posca paint pens work on most anything but for this class I'd recommend you use a multi media surface or watercolor paper 140# or heavier. Try a new surface or work in your favorite multimedia sketchbook.
What is the difference between Uni Posca pens and POSCA pens? ›The Uni Paint Markers do have a different texture to the Poscas. They are permanent and are oil based whereas the Poscas are water-based. The Paint Markers have a more glossy effect. I then moved on to the Uniball Signo Metallic Gel Pens.
Are Poscas waterproof? ›Posca Paint Markers are acrylic paint pens packed with high-pigment, light-fast, long lasting ink. The ink is waterproof, fade resistant, non toxic, with vibrant colours. Posca's can be used on metal, wood, glass, plastic, plaster, canvas and colouring books.
Is POSCA pen flammable? ›Fire fighting : The Product is no flammable. Personal precautions : Not available Environmental precautions : Do not wash away into shower or water way.
Are POSCA pens good quality? ›POSCA pens are absolutely by far the most popular thing the students use! The quality is brilliant, they're great for traditional art but also for crafts like onto glass or different surfaces like for handmade gifts too. They are very pricey, but very worth it!
Do POSCA pens run out of ink? ›Posca markers are a popular and versatile tool for artists, crafters, and hobbyists. However, like all markers, Posca's eventually run out of ink.
Is POSCA pen permanent? ›
Is POSCA paint permanent? POSCA markers are water-based markers with stable pigments that can be applied to all materials. It is permanent with no need for fixatives on porous materials such as wood, cardboard, textiles, pebbles, certain plastics and metals.
What is the difference between POSCA and Uni Posca pens? ›The Uni Paint Markers do have a different texture to the Poscas. They are permanent and are oil based whereas the Poscas are water-based. The Paint Markers have a more glossy effect. I then moved on to the Uniball Signo Metallic Gel Pens.
Does POSCA fade? ›The ink is waterproof, fade resistant, non toxic, with vibrant colours. Posca's can be used on metal, wood, glass, plastic, plaster, canvas and colouring books.
What erases POSCA markers? ›rub the hand sanitizer into the posco paint. you'll see it just simply dissolve. grab some paper towel. gently wipe it off.
How do you seal POSCA pens? ›Once your creation is finished and dry, apply two coats of water-based spray varnish. Hold the can about 30 cm from the surface and spray in slow circular movements. The varnish can be matte or gloss depending on the look you want.
Why is my POSCA paint cracking? ›If the ratio of water to polymer is too high, the paint film can become cracked or crazed. 3. Are you sure that the markers were acrylic? Posca doesn't seem to say that they are acrylics.
What is the most popular POSCA size? ›The next size up is the Fine, which draws a 1.3mm line. This is a line similar to a kids texta pen. The barrel is about the size of a fat ball-point pen. The Medium, which is probably the most popular Posca Pen for art work, draws a 2.5mm line and like the two pens before, has a bullet-tip.
What paper is best for POSCA? ›SURFACES: Posca paint pens work on most anything but for this class I'd recommend you use a multi media surface or watercolor paper 140# or heavier. Try a new surface or work in your favorite multimedia sketchbook.