Top 18 Best Fabric Markers Reviews

Fabric markers are a simple and creative way to add a personal touch to your accessories and clothes.

They give you the freedom to use your imagination and explore your creativity. Convenience, durability, and versatility are just a few of the benefits they provide.

However, choosing the right set of fabric markers can be hard. It can either make or break your project.

I took the liberty to experiment on test clothes with different sets available on the market to write these reviews and help you choose the right set for you.

Without any further ado, let’s check some of the best markers you can buy in 2021.

What are the Best Fabric Markers to Use?

Let’s throw a quick look at some of the best-selling fabric markers. Hopefully, summarizing their most important features can help you find the most suitable set for your needs.

• Best Overall: Tulip Fabric Markers
  “Suitable for all ages, vibrant colors, fade-proof, easy to use, non-toxic, dry quickly and permanently.”
• Best Budget: Sharpie 1779005 Stained Fabric Markers
  “High-quality, suitable for all fabric surfaces, machine-washable, affordable, fade-proof, permanent ink.”
• Best for Shoes: Blackcat Sales Fabric Markers
  “Permanent markers, durable, a fine tip for detailed work, fade-resistant, non-toxic, color-fast, vibrant.”
• Best for Shirts: Super Markers Fabric & T-Shirt Marker
  “Safe breathable caps, professional-artist quality markers, double-ended design, safe, super-versatile.”
• Best for Denim: Best Fabric Markers
  “Versatile set of 24 colors, bullet tips for precision, works on hundreds of surfaces, machine-washable.”
• Best for Canvas: Crafts 4 ALL Fabric Markers Pens Permanent 
  “Highly-pigmented, perfect for different projects, permanent, non-toxic, flexible, super-versatile.”
• Best for Polyester: Colore Premium Fabric Markers
  “Fade-resistant, premium quality markers, easy to prepare and use, highly-pigmented, weather-proof.”
• Best for Writing on Clothes: Tulip Permanent Nontoxic Fabric Markers
  “Suitable for children and adults, non-toxic, permanent, fine writer bullet tip for writing, permanent.”
• Best for Dark Fabrics: Crayola 588215 Fabric Marker Classpack
  “Great for both light and dark fabrics, 8 each of 19 colors, quick and easy to heat-set, fine tip, versatile.”
• Best for Pillowcases: Luxbon 12 Pack Permanent Fabric Markers
  “Fast-drying, fade-resistant, weather-proof, 12 vibrant colors, double tip for various uses, impressive.”
• Best for Children: Creative Joy Fabric Markers with Permanent Brilliant Colors
  “Perfect for both beginners and professionals, super-versatile, vibrant colors, permanent, easy to use.”
• Best for Clothing: Crafts 4 ALL Fabric Markers Pens Permanent 24 pack
  “Fine writer bullet tip, premium-quality fabric markers, deeply rich pigmented, lightfast, safe, versatile.”
• Best Versatile: US Art Supply Super Markers Fabric & T-Shirt Marker
  “Suitable for different projects, they work well on any fabric, rich pigments, pointed bullet tip, vibrant.”
• Best for Onesies: Crafts 4 ALL 12 Bright Dual TIP Fabric Marker
  “Flexible, suitable for children, high-quality permanent ink, washer-resistant, long-lasting, dual tips.”
• Best for Jeans: Arteza Fabric Markers Black Colors
  “Water-based, cold wash-proof, fade-resistant, durable, dual-tip, suitable for denim and other fabric.”

Top 18 Best Fabric Markers Comparison Chart 2021

Picking the right fabric markers for your next project just became easier thanks to the comparison chart below.

I have compared their most key features in order to help you learn more about each set and determine which one brings more bang for your buck.

Let’s go through the comparison chart before we jump into the detailed reviews.

Best Permanent Fabric Markers Reviews 2021

If you prefer fabric markers over fabric paint, my reviews below contain both acrylic-based and alcohol-based paint markers. Each set has its pros and cons.

With your next project in mind, select the style and type of fabric markers that promise the best results.

The products also range from budget-friendly fabric markers to expensive choices. Select the set in your price range and start making those impressive designs.

Tulip Fabric Markers

(Best Overall)

Tulip produces some of the best fabric markers on the market.

This set is one of them. They’re non-toxic, easy to use and safe. Suitable for all ages, they will provide super vibrant colors that dry quickly and permanently.

You don’t need a heat setting to make these markers permanent. They’re fade-resistant and will stay on your fabrics even after multiple washes.

You can use them on light-colored or white materials for the best results.

The best part? The tips won’t snag your fabric when coloring. Also, don’t forget to allow your ink to dry for 24 hours before wearing or washing.

Sharpie 1779005 Stained Fabric Markers

(Best Budget)

Sharpie is another popular brand with high-quality fabric markers that will blow your mind.

This particular set is made to adhere to a wide variety of materials and fabric surfaces. With brush tips that draw both thin and thick lines, these markers will color your fabrics permanently.

Their ink is fade-resistant and will withstand multiple machine washes.

If you want to make your clothing truly original, this set is the right choice for you. The bold colors work on most types of materials and fabrics.

You will get 8 fabric markers in green, red, blue, black, and pink.

Crayola Fabric Line Markers

(Best Permanent Fabric Markers for Quilts)

If you’re a serious crafter and artist, you probably heard of the Crayola brand.

They produce some of the best fabric markers on the market. This particular set will allow you to draw on any colored fabric.

The markers are made to perform on both light and dark fabrics.

Decorate and personalize your accessories, clothing, and more with these fine line fabric markers. You will get 10 markers to complete your wildest projects including quilts.

Crayola items are available in a diverse range of options including fine line, broad line, emoji stampers, metallic, glitter, and so on. They also produce bulk packs for the classroom.

If you’re interested in detailed coloring, this set is perfect for you.

Crafts 4 ALL Fabric Markers Pens Permanent 24 pack

(Best Fabric Markers for Clothing)

Another popular brand that gained the trust of many customers is Crafts 4 ALL. They deliver premium quality fabric markers.

This particular set includes 24 fabric markers with a fine writer bullet tip for thick writing, underlining, outlining, doodling, easy color picking, creative decorating, and DIY projects.

They make the perfect choice for professionals, amateurs, and children.

If you purchase this product, you will get deeply rich pigmented markers made for use on any fabric. They will let your imagination and creativity bloom.

They’re perfect for canvas, handbags, clothing, wall art, placemats, sneakers, baby gear, bibs, and so on.

The best part? They’re perfectly safe for children, fade-proof, washer-proof, lightfast, non-toxic, and weather-proof.

No matter the time, light or weather, they will deliver booming results.

Super Markers 20 Unique Colors Dual Tip Fabric & T-Shirt Marker

(Best Fabric Markers for Shirts)

Super Markers set includes 20 original, appealing colors at your disposal.

They dry permanently and contain rich vibrant pigments for booming colors on any fabric. These tools are fade-resistant and washer-proof.

If you’re looking for markers with both bullet and chisel tips, look no further than this set.

It contains professional-artist quality double-ended tools that deliver fine detail bullets and lines, as well as broad strokes.

The fine tip is perfect for writing, sketching, and outlining while the chisel tip is made for shading, broad writing, blending and filling in.

The set is easy to use, safe, and fun. It’s suitable for children at the age of 3 and above since they feature safe breathable caps.

You can decorate your shoes, clothing, bags, baby items, place-mats, and t-shirts. They’re ideal to show off your fun side and create your own masterpieces.

Crafts 4 ALL Fabric Markers Pens Permanent 12 Pack

(Best Fabric Markers for Canvas)

Another set by Crafts 4 ALL that will meet the needs of both professionals and seasoned artists is this one. It includes 12 vibrant, highly-pigmented markers in different colors.

But here is the kicker. It’s the first and original set of dual-tip markers with the highest quality fabric ink that is permanent, non-toxic, washer-proof, weather-proof, and lightfast.

It’s made for use on any material and fabric which makes it perfect for different projects including wall art, placemats, clothing, handbags, canvas, baby gear, bibs, and so on.

Thanks to the dual tips, you can outline, underline sketch and draw. It’s flexible, versatile, and brings out the creative side of every crafter.

Creative Joy Fabric Markers with Permanent Brilliant Colors

(Best Fabric Markers for Children)

Are you planning a vacation bible school, bridal luncheon, summer camp, a baby shower or some other important event?

If yes, this set of fabric markers by Creative Joy will provide great fun for your group as each person can customize fabrics to celebrate the event.

This set is perfect for both adults and kids who love making personalized clothing and custom aprons at church schools, camps, and so on.

The possibilities that this kit offers are endless.

You will get premium quality dual-tip fabric markers with permanent ink made for use on any material and fabric. The set includes 12 vibrant markers in the following colors:

• Black
• Warm gray
• Deep violet
• Lemon yellow
• Brilliant blue
• Mint green
• Sky blue
• Orange
• Purple
• Green
• Red

With these markers, you can write, draw, outline or add detail with the fine point. However, you can also fill in photos with a thick point.

They’re perfect for both beginners and professionals.

Best Fabric Markers

(Best Fabric Markers for Denim)

If you’re looking for the perfect set of fabric markers for crafts and arts and creating art on clothing, look no further than this one.

It includes 4 colors of permanent ink that will provide everything you need to complete your project. It’s a versatile set with 24 colors in total in the following vibrant colors:

• Red
• Purple
• Orange
• Yellow
• Green
• Neon
• Black
• Blue
• Pink

They have bullet tips that provide precision for both thick and thin lines. You can color, write, sketch and draw with this set. The set is perfect for art and DIY projects.

It works on hundreds of surfaces including t-shirts, polyester, denim, cotton, and so on. The markers are non-toxic, machine washable, and safe for all ages.

US Art Supply Super Markers Fabric & T-Shirt Marker

(Best Versatile Fabric Markers)

US Art Supply offers a set of super markers for both fabric and t-shirts. They contain rich pigments for strong, vibrant colors that work on any fabric.

These markers are fade-resistant just like the rest of the markers on my list. You can wash them in the machine and not worry about fading.

If you buy this set, you will get a wide range of vibrant, vivid, and bold colors for making artwork on all fabrics and t-shirts.

The markers have pointed bullet tip that can be used for thick strokes and fine details. However, for the best results, make sure to wash your fabric at least 24 hours before washing.

Colore Premium Fabric Markers

(Best Fabric Markers for Polyester)

If you’re looking for high-quality fabric markers that will add more life to your creations, look no further than this set by Colore.

It includes premium fabric markers for decorating personalized shoes, t-shirts, bags, and other projects. They’re super easy to prepare and use.

You can use them on all types of fabric including polyester and cotton. They perform well on both dark and light-colored fabrics.

If you order this set, you will get 20 highly-pigmented markers in the following colors:

• Red
• Pink
• Purple
• Yellow
• Orange
• Green
• Black
• Blue

This set makes the perfect gift for the artist or crafter in your family. It’s suitable for adults, teenagers, beginners, and children.

They bring great value for the price.

The best part? They have a bullet tip for easy color picking, thick writing, pro-grade calligraphic writing, and creative decorating.

They’re weatherproof and fade-resistant.

Crafts 4 ALL 12 Bright Dual TIP Fabric Marker

(Best Fabric Markers for Onesies)

Crafts 4 ALL strikes with another impressive set for those who prefer fewer colors in their set.

They still provide the same high-quality permanent ink made for use on any fabric. They’re perfect for clothing, wall art, canvas, placemats, handbags, baby gear, sneakers, bibs and so on.

This particular set includes 12 vibrant, highly-pigmented fabric markers that make the perfect choice for DIY projects.

The colors are original and long-lasting. If you buy this set, you will get markers with dual tips for various uses including sketching, drawing, outlining, underlining, and so on.

If you’re looking for something flexible and versatile, this is it.

The markers are non-toxic, fade-resistant, weather-resistant, washer-resistant, and lightfast. They help creative souls like yourself express their originality through their artwork.

They’re also suitable for children.

Blackcat Sales Fabric Markers

(Best Fabric Markers for Shoes)

Blackcat Sales offers a selection of 10 beautiful, vibrant colors per set.

The set includes water-based, non-toxic fabric markers with a fine tip for detailed work. They’re easy to use, color-fast, fade-resistant, and safe for children.

You can decorate canvas shoes, linen, shirts, and other pieces without worrying about washing. They’re high-quality permanent markers that can withstand multiple washes.

Order this simple but effective set and get your creative juices flowing today.

Crayola 588215 Fabric Marker Classpack

(Best Fabric Markers for Black Fabric)

This class pack by Crayola offers bright colors specially designed for both light and dark fabrics.

Their fine tip is perfect for detailing on clothing and other fabric crafts. If you want a quick and easy to heat-set markers, buy this product today.

The markers feature elongated and ventilated caps for additional safety. You will get 8 each of 10 non-toxic colors.

It’s perfect for both adults and children.

Tulip Permanent Nontoxic Fabric Markers

(Best Fabric Markers for Writing on Clothes)

You can never go wrong with Tulip products. This particular set contains non-toxic fabric markers that perform on any fabric.

They’re suitable for both adults and children. The best part? The colors can withstand multiple washes and dry quickly. And permanently without heat setting.

You will get fine writer bullet-tip tools in various bright colors that apply evenly and smoothly without snagging your fabric.

They can be utilized for outlining, doodling, and writing on materials. They’re also suitable for children and adult’s coloring books.

ARTEZA Fabric Markers

Arteza fabric markers are permanent, fade-resistant, weather-proof, and lightfast.

If you like what you’re reading, order your set today. You will get vibrant colors ranging from yellow to pink, orchid purple to gray. The markers are non-toxic and suitable for kids.

They have dual tips. You can use the fine tip for detailing and the ultra-fine tip for decorating, writing, and personalizing your next project.

However, for the best results, I suggest that you use a neutral detergent and warm water when washing.

It’s suitable for both adults and children.

Arteza Fabric Markers Black Colors

(Best Fabric Markers for Jeans)

If you’re a fan of black color and want to personalize your crafts with this particular color, order this set by Arteza today.

It offers durable fabric markers with a dual tip for writing, drawing, outlining and making detailed lines. You can use them for shirts, jeans, backpacks, shoes, and so on.

They’re water-based, non-toxic, fade-resistant and cold wash-proof.

Luxbon 12 Pack Permanent Fabric Markers

(Best Fabric Markers for Pillowcases)

Luxbon offers 12 vibrant colors including green, light green, yellow, orange, red, pink, bright blue, sky blue, dark purple, grey, black, and chocolate.

They meet every crafter’s needs of design not only because they come in so many different colors but also have a dual-tip design.

They don’t bleed and can be used for full coverage thanks to the broad tip while the fine tip can be used for bullet points, detailing, sketching, drawing, and writing.

If you’re looking for fast drying, fade-resistant and weather-proof set of fabric markers, look no further than this one.

It’s suitable for both adults and children. You can use them for customizing canvas shoes, wall arts, table cloth, pillowcases, placemats, hats, t-shirts, and so on.

They will deliver impressive, permanent results on any fabric.

Uchida 522-C-1 Marvy Fine Point Fabric Marker

Last but not least, I have a marker by Uchida that has a fine point. It’s perfect for fine detail on most fabric for embellishments, wearable art, and home décor.

The best part? The points bend and snap right back. Also, it requires no heat set and gives permanent results.

The ink is fade-resistant, machine-washable, chlorine-resistant, and dries instantly. It’s ideal for outlines on craft paint projects.

You will get one fine point fabric marker in the color of your choosing. However, you can also purchase more colors because the markers are sold separately.

How to Choose the Right Fabric Markers?

You can choose from multiple types of fabric markers on the market.

You may be looking for a fine tip for detailing or want a chisel tip for more coverage. However, despite which type you pick, there are features you should pay attention to.

Non-Toxic

Make sure that the markers you buy are non-toxic. Every set on my list above is non-toxic. No matter if it’s for you or your kids, you have to make sure it’s safe to use.

Fade-Resistant Ink

It’s important to choose fade-resistant fabric markers because you don’t want your design to wash away easily. Make sure that the ink can withstand multiple washes.

Heat-Setting Markers

I kindly suggest that you avoid heat-setting fabric markers.

Markers that don’t require ironing or heat to set the colors permanently are easier to use. Also, they dry in like 24 hours and provide an outstanding finish.

Smooth Application

Fabric markers should run evenly and smoothly without snuggling on your fabric. Pay attention to online comments about the products.

Customer comments could reveal if some fabric markers are dry and not worth the money. If you don’t, you can receive dry markers that will give you a hard time while working.

Selection of Tips

I believe that it’s better to buy a set that includes a variety of tips.

This way, you will have an appropriate marker for every design. Make sure that you get a chisel, wide-angle chisel, fine-point, bullet, and brush-style tip.

What are Fabric Markers Used for?

Their name pretty much reveals their purpose.

Fabric markers are used for painting, writing or drawing on your clothes, shoes, and other crafts. They’re effective for lettering on fabric and adding a personal touch to creations.

Fabric markers contain ink, paint or dye. They’re created not to wash off immediately, so you can enjoy your designs longer.

They’re just perfect for exploring your creativity and bringing creations to life.

How to Use Fabric Markers?

To begin designing or drawing with a fabric marker, you need press cloth, stencils, masking tape, and iron if the markers require heat setting.

However, first and foremost, you need to prepare the fabric you want to customize.

Wash it and press it to remove any chemical or dust that may prevent colors from drying properly. The next step is testing the fabric to make sure that the colors will stay on after painting.

Let the paint dry before you continue with your work.

After you have determined that the fabric and the marker are compatible, lay flat the fabric on a smooth surface. Make sure that the edges are held intact while you work.

Use masking tape to keep them tight and secure. Shake your marker before using it. Also, take a look at the tip to see if there’s a plastic protector you need to remove.

Once you have finished your design, leave it to dry for at least 24 hours. If you’re not in a rush, I suggest you leave it for more than 3 days.

When you think it’s finally dry, use your iron. Set your iron’s temperature according to the type of fabric.

Press cloth over your design. Move your iron evenly for about 15 seconds. Finally, wash your fabric with a neutral detergent and cool water.

How to Write on Fabric without Bleeding?

This depends on the type of markers you have. If they bleed on the fabric, there is nothing you can do about it. You will need a new set of markers that don’t bleed.

However, it’s good to let a spot of color dry before using another color. Otherwise, the colors may bleed. This is a useful tip you can apply and see if it helps with the bleeding.

Are Fabric Markers the Same as Permanent Markers?

I have noticed that people wonder about differences between fabric markers vs permanent markers.

First of all, they’re not the same product. Fabric markers contain ink, paint or dye that is made to stay on your fabric for a longer period. They’re also labeled “permanent”.

Sets of fabric markers come in many colors, unlike regular “permanent” markers. Also, they’re non-toxic and safe for children. However, some of them require a heat setting, unlike regular

markers.

Can I Use Sharpie on a Shirt?

When it comes to drawing on fabrics, Sharpies are a common choice.

However, unlike most fabric markers, they bleed on the fabric if not used properly. You should hold your fabric taut in order to prevent your Sharpie from bleeding through.

Also, fabric markers provide better results. If you were wondering what is the difference between fabric markers vs sharpie, this is it.

You can use a sharpie on a shirt. However, I would suggest that you buy a set of fabric markers and play with your shirts. They will not bleed on your fabric but provide permanent results.

How to Use Fabric Markers on T-Shirts?

You can use fabric markers to design your shirts however you want. Write an inspirational quote, your name, website, blog name or display your artwork.

First of all, you should buy a set of non-toxic, permanent fabric markers (check my reviews above). Make sure that it’s a high-quality set of markers with different tips.

This way, you will have different tools for different designs (chisel, fine, bullet, and so on). Next, put your t-shirt on a smooth surface with a piece of cardboard underneath.

This way, you will avoid bleeding on your surface. Even if you buy a marker that doesn’t bleed, keep the cardboard, just in case.

Finally, choose your design and get to work.

Determine if you want to make your design with smaller or bigger strokes. That will help you choose the type of marker you will color your design with.

Leave your design to dry for at least 24 hours before washing.

How to Wash Fabric Markers?

Fabric markers contain permanent ink. They also have colors that hold up pretty well and don’t wash off immediately.

It’s recommended to wash your design at least 24 hours after the coloring. Otherwise, the colors might come off. It’s also suggested to use cool water and neutral detergent.

However, the most important tip that actually works is leaving your design to dry for 3 to 5 days before you wash it. If it’s completely dry, it will withstand multiple washes.

How to Make Fabric Markers Permanent?

When you’re completely done with your design, allow it to dry.

After, cover your design with a thin cloth and use your iron to set the design. Iron your design for about 15 seconds. You can also use your hairdryer to low to medium heat for half an hour.

Don’t wash your design for at least 24 hours. And when you do, use a mild detergent and cold water for the first three times.

Are Fabric Markers Waterproof?

Most fabric markers are waterproof, weather-proof, fade-resistant, fast-drying, and easy to apply.

But it depends on the type of marker if it’s waterproof or not. Markers with permanent ink can only be washed out while wet.

However, once they’re dry, they cannot be removed with water. Non-permanent markers, on the other hand, can be wiped away with a wet cloth.

Are Fabric Markers Safe for Baby Clothes?

Most fabric markers are safe for baby clothes such as markers in my reviews.

They’re also lightfast, waterproof, weatherproof, fade-proof, and non-toxic. Make sure that the fabric markers you buy are labeled as “non-toxic” and “safe for children”.

Can Fabric Markers Cover Bleach Stains?

You can’t scrub or wash bleach stains out. However, you can cover them up with a fabric marker. Make sure that you use a permanent fabric marker in a color that matches your fabric exactly.

Can Fabric Markers be Used on Glass?

You can use fabric markers on glass. However, don’t expect them to stick forever. To remove these markers, you will need a wet cloth.

They work well for writing on glass surfaces. However, I strongly recommend that you buy markers with permanent ink, intended for use on metal and glass.

Can Fabric Markers be Used on Paper?

Since fabric markers are semi-permanent, they can be used on paper as well. However, I kindly suggest that you try them out on matte paper.

Can Fabric Markers be Used on Plastic?

Fabric markers can be used on plastic surfaces. However, don’t expect them to last forever. In order to achieve a permanent design on plastic, prepare your plastic properly.

Can Fabric Markers be Used on Canvas?

Of course, fabric markers are suitable for making permanent, detailed designs on canvas fabrics.

They’re available in chisel, thick and fine tip varieties and different colors. Use fabric markers to make unique drawings onto sneakers, canvas bags, and aprons.

Will Fabric Markers Work on Ceramic?

You can try using fabric markers on ceramic. However, you should also bake it to make it stick.

Keep in mind that some shades will get darker after applying heat. You should bake your ceramic in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Put your ceramics in the over before it heats in order to prevent cracks. It’s also recommended to bake your ceramic twice to set your design even better.

Will Fabric Markers Work on Wood?

Every fabric marker has a different consistency. Sharpie markers work well on wooden surfaces.

However, fabric markers won’t. Use wood paint markers instead. Also, don’t forget to apply a cleat coat on your wooden surface before using markers.

Will Fabric Markers Work on Rocks?

You can try using fabric markers on rocks but don’t expect them to last forever. They will eventually fade. Using fabric markers on rocks is not a good idea.

Will Fabric Markers Work on Polyester?

Yes, fabric markers work on polyester and other types of fabric.

You can use fabric markers to customize your accessories and clothing. Once you’re done with markers, put your garments in a dryer to set the design.

Fabric Markers vs Fabric Paint

The differences between fabric markers and fabric paint include painting time and precision. Use fabric markers if you want to add precision to your designs.

However, if you want to cover larger areas, use fabric paint. It’s cheaper. Otherwise, your fabric markers will end up quickly. It depends on your design if you should use markers or paint.

Also, some fabric markers bleed on the fabric if not used properly which is not the case with fabric paint.

Fabric Markers vs Regular Markers

Fabric markers have permanent ink, paint or dye that is made to not wash off quickly with washing.

Regular markers, on the other hand, will not wash off either because they’re also permanent. However, they don’t come in different varieties and shades as fabric markers do.

FAQ

Conclusion

With my reviews of the best fabric markers and the buyer’s guide to help you along, buying the right set of fabric markers shouldn’t be a hard task.

Check the number of markers in the set and the colors present before you spend your money. I wish you all the best as you customize your creations.

I personally recommend Tulip Fabric Markers for professionals and beginners. However, if you’re looking for a reasonably-priced set, look no further than Sharpie 1779005 Stained Fabric Markers.

Blackcat sales fabric markers are one of the best for canvas shoes. They’re vibrant, permanent and have a fine tip for detailed work.

Don’t be scared to experiment and share photos of your masterpieces in the comments if you feel like it. Also, if you find this article informative, share it with your friends.