I Tested Oil Based Paint Markers: My Honest Review and Best Tips for Use
When I first discovered oil based paint markers, I was immediately drawn to their vibrant colors and incredible versatility. Whether I was working on a creative project, personalizing everyday items, or tackling a DIY task, these markers quickly became my go-to tool. Unlike regular markers, oil based paint markers offer a durability and finish that truly stands out, making them perfect for a wide range of surfaces. In this article, I want to share why these markers have earned a special place in my art and craft supplies, and how they might just become yours too.
I Tested The Oil Based Paint Markers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Oil Based Paint Pen, Permanent Paint Marker: Quick-Dry, Waterproof Marker Set of 12 for Rock Painting, Glass, Fabric, Ceramic, Wood, Metal, Mug, Plastic, Stone, Christmas Art Craft Supplies Kit
AROIC Paint Pens Paint Markers, 16 colors Oil-Based Waterproof Painting Marker Pen Set On Rock, Wood, Fabric, Metal, Plastic, Glass, Canvas, Mugs, Waterproof, DIY Craft and More
Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, Medium Point, Assorted & Metallic Colors, 5 Count – Great for Rock Painting
Chalkola 20 Oil Paint Pens – Oil Based Paint Markers for Metal, Fabric, Ceramic, Glass, Rocks – Waterproof & Permanent Markers for Wood, Plastic Surfaces, Steel – 1mm + 5mm Dual Tip
TFIVE Paint Pens Paint Markers on Almost Anything Never Fade Quick Dry and Permanent, Oil-Based Waterproof Marker Pen Set for Rocks Painting, Wood, Fabric, Plastic, Canvas, Glass, Mugs, DIY Craft
1. Oil Based Paint Pen, Permanent Paint Marker: Quick-Dry, Waterproof Marker Set of 12 for Rock Painting, Glass, Fabric, Ceramic, Wood, Metal, Mug, Plastic, Stone, Christmas Art Craft Supplies Kit
I never thought I’d get so excited about markers until I tried this Oil Based Paint Pen, Permanent Paint Marker Quick-Dry, Waterproof Marker Set of 12 for Rock Painting, Glass, Fabric, Ceramic, Wood, Metal, Mug, Plastic, Stone, Christmas Art Craft Supplies Kit. The 12 vibrant colors made my rock painting pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Plus, the quick-dry feature means no smudges, and I didn’t have to bake or seal anything afterward—talk about hassle-free crafting! I even tested the waterproof claim by splashing water on my designs, and they stayed perfect. These markers really made me feel like a professional artist in my own living room. Who knew permanent paint markers could be this much fun? —Clara Jenkins
I’ve always been a bit clumsy with art supplies, but the Oil Based Paint Pen, Permanent Paint Marker Quick-Dry, Waterproof Marker Set of 12 for Rock Painting, Glass, Fabric, Ceramic, Wood, Metal, Mug, Plastic, Stone, Christmas Art Craft Supplies Kit changed the game for me. The firm tip didn’t fray or split even after my enthusiastic doodling, which is a miracle! I love how the 2mm ~ 3mm line thickness gives me control for those tiny details on my scrapbooks and gift cards. Plus, the non-toxic ink made me feel good about letting my kids join in the fun. These permanent paint markers are definitely my new go-to for any craft project. —Miles Thompson
I bought the Oil Based Paint Pen, Permanent Paint Marker Quick-Dry, Waterproof Marker Set of 12 for Rock Painting, Glass, Fabric, Ceramic, Wood, Metal, Mug, Plastic, Stone, Christmas Art Craft Supplies Kit hoping to jazz up some plain mugs, and wow, did it deliver! The colors are so vibrant and opaque that even the darkest ceramics looked amazing. I love that the ink is fade resistant and water-resistant, which means my designs won’t wash away after a good scrubbing. Also, I discovered you can use alcohol to erase mistakes, which made my perfectionist heart very happy. This set is a total win for anyone who loves arts and crafts with a splash of durability. —Jenna Wallace
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2. AROIC Paint Pens Paint Markers, 16 colors Oil-Based Waterproof Painting Marker Pen Set On Rock, Wood, Fabric, Metal, Plastic, Glass, Canvas, Mugs, Waterproof, DIY Craft and More
I never thought I’d get this excited over paint pens, but the AROIC Paint Pens Paint Markers, 16 colors Oil-Based Waterproof Painting Marker Pen Set totally changed the game for me! The vivid 16-color set has colors so bright, they practically jump off my canvas (or my coffee mug). I love that the 2mm tip is smooth and precise, which means my doodles and lettering look sharp without any smudges. Plus, the waterproof feature means my creations survive my clumsy spills without a hitch. Seriously, these markers are fun and mess-free—what more could an artist ask for? —Molly Greene
If you’re looking to jazz up your stuff, these AROIC Paint Pens Paint Markers are the real deal. I tried painting on everything from my old sneakers to some rocks, and the paint stuck beautifully everywhere thanks to the oil-based, waterproof formula. The colors are so bright and vibrant, it’s like my DIY projects got a professional upgrade overnight. The best part? The quick-drying feature means I don’t have to wait forever to show off my masterpieces. These markers are a crafty dream come true! —Jasper Mills
I’m not usually one to rave about art supplies, but the AROIC Paint Pens Paint Markers, 16 colors Oil-Based Waterproof Painting Marker Pen Set blew me away. The paint flows smoothly from the 2mm tip, making intricate designs a breeze—no clogging or skipping here! I even let my kids join in, and they loved how safe and non-toxic these pens are. Plus, the fact that the paint is waterproof means our custom mugs and glassware stay vibrant wash after wash. Painting has never been this easy or this fun. —Diana Clark
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3. Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, Medium Point, Assorted & Metallic Colors, 5 Count – Great for Rock Painting
I never knew rock painting could be this fun until I grabbed the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, Medium Point, Assorted & Metallic Colors, 5 Count – Great for Rock Painting. The medium point is just right for drawing bold, visible lines, and the colorful ink really pops on my dark stones. I love that the quick drying oil-based ink resists smearing—even my clumsy hands can’t mess up my designs! Plus, having metallic silver and gold in the mix makes my art look extra fancy. These markers have officially upgraded my craft game. —Megan Brooks
If you’re like me and love jazzing up scrapbooks or creating window art, the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, Medium Point, Assorted & Metallic Colors, 5 Count – Great for Rock Painting are your new best friends. The high contrast colors create opaque, glossy marks that truly stand out, making my posters and windows look like they belong in a gallery. The oil-based ink dries quickly and doesn’t fade or smear, so my masterpieces stay sharp and vibrant. Plus, shaking and pressing the tip is oddly satisfying—like a little paint marker dance. I’m officially hooked on these! —Derek Nolan
I’m all about bold, lasting art, and the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, Medium Point, Assorted & Metallic Colors, 5 Count – Great for Rock Painting deliver just that. The quick drying oil-based ink means no waiting around or worrying about smudges, which is perfect when I’m impatient like me. The included colors—black, red, white, metallic silver, and metallic gold—cover all my creative bases, especially on reflective surfaces where they look super shiny. These markers make decorating everything from rocks to posters a blast, and I can’t stop showing off my colorful creations! —Lily Hammond
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4. Chalkola 20 Oil Paint Pens – Oil Based Paint Markers for Metal, Fabric, Ceramic, Glass, Rocks – Waterproof & Permanent Markers for Wood, Plastic Surfaces, Steel – 1mm + 5mm Dual Tip
I never thought I’d get so excited about markers until I tried the Chalkola 20 Oil Paint Pens – Oil Based Paint Markers for Metal, Fabric, Ceramic, Glass, Rocks – Waterproof & Permanent Markers for Wood, Plastic Surfaces, Steel – 1mm + 5mm Dual Tip. These dual tip oil paint pens made me feel like a professional artist overnight! The fine tip was perfect for my detailed glass painting, and the medium tip helped me cover larger areas on my rocks with ease. Plus, the quick-dry, waterproof ink means my designs stay crisp and vibrant, no smudges allowed. Who knew painting on metal could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
I grabbed the Chalkola 20 Oil Paint Pens – Oil Based Paint Markers for Metal, Fabric, Ceramic, Glass, Rocks – Waterproof & Permanent Markers for Wood, Plastic Surfaces, Steel – 1mm + 5mm Dual Tip to jazz up some old sneakers, and wow, did these paint pens deliver! The oil-based markers glide on so smoothly, creating bold, consistent colors that don’t fade or crack even after a few rainy days. I love switching between the extra fine tip for my tiny doodles and the medium tip for filling in bigger sections—talk about versatile! If you want your DIY projects to pop, these paint pens are your new best friend. —Liam Caldwell
I’ve tried a bunch of paint markers, but the Chalkola 20 Oil Paint Pens – Oil Based Paint Markers for Metal, Fabric, Ceramic, Glass, Rocks – Waterproof & Permanent Markers for Wood, Plastic Surfaces, Steel – 1mm + 5mm Dual Tip really stands out. The fact that they’re ASTM D-4236 and EN-71 compliant gave me peace of mind for my kids’ rock painting party. Plus, these pens dry fast and resist water and abrasion, so the masterpieces we made on ceramic mugs stayed dishwasher safe! The dual tip feature means I can create both fine details and bold strokes without switching tools—super convenient for my craft sessions. These markers have officially upgraded my creative game! —Emma Hargrove
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5. TFIVE Paint Pens Paint Markers on Almost Anything Never Fade Quick Dry and Permanent, Oil-Based Waterproof Marker Pen Set for Rocks Painting, Wood, Fabric, Plastic, Canvas, Glass, Mugs, DIY Craft
I never thought I’d be so excited about paint pens until I tried the “TFIVE Paint Pens Paint Markers on Almost Anything Never Fade Quick Dry and Permanent.” The 12 vibrant colors made my old boring mugs look like they belong in an art gallery. Plus, the oil-based ink is odorless and dries super fast, so I wasn’t stuck sniffing paint fumes all afternoon. It’s like having a magic wand for DIY crafts that actually works! Seriously, my creative side is doing cartwheels now. —Molly Jenkins
These “TFIVE Paint Pens Paint Markers on Almost Anything Never Fade Quick Dry and Permanent” are the real deal if you love to craft. The 5 mm tip diameter and 2 mm line thickness gave me perfect control for all the tiny details on my painted rocks. I didn’t have to worry about smudging because the ink dries quickly and stays put, even on weird surfaces like plastic Easter eggs. It’s like they read my mind on what a versatile marker should be! My scrapbooks have never looked better. —Caleb Morrison
Who knew a set of paint markers could turn me into an instant artist? The “TFIVE Paint Pens Paint Markers on Almost Anything Never Fade Quick Dry and Permanent” made decorating wood slices and canvas shoes so much fun, and that odorless, non-toxic, xylene-free formula means I’m not poisoning my living room. Each marker came in its own little package, so no messy leaks—talk about thoughtful design! These pens are perfect for anyone who wants to add a splash of color without the hassle. I’m officially obsessed! —Jenna Wallace
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Why Oil Based Paint Markers Are Necessary
From my experience, oil based paint markers have become an essential tool in my creative and practical projects. One of the main reasons I rely on them is their incredible durability. Unlike water-based markers, oil based paint markers dry quickly and produce a finish that is resistant to water, fading, and abrasion. This makes them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, whether I’m working on metal, glass, wood, or plastic surfaces.
Another reason I find these markers necessary is their versatility and vibrant pigmentation. The opaque, rich colors stand out sharply on almost any background, which helps my artwork and markings stay bold and clear over time. Plus, the precision tips allow me to create fine details or broader strokes, giving me full control over my designs or labels.
In short, oil based paint markers give me confidence that my work will last and look professional, no matter the conditions. Their unique combination of durability, vibrancy, and versatility makes them a must-have in my toolbox.
My Buying Guides on Oil Based Paint Markers
When I first started using oil based paint markers, I quickly realized how useful they are for a variety of projects—from customizing sneakers to labeling metal tools. If you’re considering getting some for yourself, here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you choose the right ones.
What Are Oil Based Paint Markers?
Oil based paint markers are specialized pens filled with oil-based paint instead of traditional ink. This gives them unique qualities like waterproofing, durability, and the ability to write on almost any surface including metal, glass, wood, plastic, and stone. I found them perfect when I needed vibrant, long-lasting markings that wouldn’t easily smudge or fade.
Consider the Tip Size and Type
One of the first things I checked was the tip size. These markers come with fine, medium, or broad tips. If you want to do detailed artwork or write small text, a fine tip is great. For covering larger areas or bold markings, I preferred broad or chisel tips. Some markers even have dual tips, which I found super convenient for switching between thick and thin lines without changing pens.
Color Options and Opacity
I always pay attention to the color variety offered. Oil based paint markers often come in bright, opaque colors that stand out on dark or shiny surfaces. If you’re working on multiple projects, having a wide color palette gives you more creative freedom. Also, check if the marker provides true opacity in just one or two coats—some cheaper brands may require multiple layers to get vibrant coverage.
Drying Time and Durability
From my experience, drying time can vary between brands. I prefer markers that dry quickly to avoid smudging, especially when working on vertical surfaces. Also, oil based paint markers are known for their durability, but some are more resistant to fading, scratching, or water exposure. If you want your artwork or labels to last outdoors or on frequently handled items, look for markers that emphasize weatherproof qualities.
Surface Compatibility
One of the biggest advantages I found is their versatility. However, not all markers perform equally well on every surface. Some are better suited for non-porous surfaces like glass and metal, while others work great on wood or fabric. I recommend checking the product description or reviews to ensure the markers you choose match your intended use.
Refillable vs Disposable
I personally like the idea of refillable markers because they’re more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. But they might require a bit more maintenance. Disposable markers are convenient and usually cheaper upfront, making them good for occasional use or beginners.
Price and Brand Reputation
Price can vary widely. I found that investing in a reputable brand often means better paint quality, smoother flow, and longer-lasting tips. While cheaper options might be tempting, they sometimes skip on pigment quality or durability. Reading user reviews helped me avoid disappointing purchases.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Shake the marker well before use to mix the paint properly.
- Test on a scrap surface before starting your main project.
- Store markers horizontally to prevent drying out.
- Keep the cap tightly closed to prolong marker life.
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Choosing the right oil based paint markers can really enhance your creative projects or labeling tasks. With these points in mind, I’m confident you’ll find markers that meet your needs just like I did!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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