Sharpies: The Ultimate Guide

Sharpies, with their iconic black ink and unmistakable barrel shape, have become synonymous with writing, drawing, and marking for over 50 years. Whether you're a student, an artist, or a professional, there's a Sharpie product that will meet your needs.

History of Sharpies

The Sharpie story begins in 1964 when the Sanford Ink Company introduced a new felt-tip marker called the "Sharpie." The marker was an immediate success, and the Sharpie name quickly became synonymous with quality and reliability. In 1990, Sanford Ink was acquired by the Newell Rubbermaid Corporation, which continues to produce and distribute Sharpies today.

Types of Sharpies

Sharpies are available in a wide variety of tips, sizes, and colors to meet the needs of any user. Some of the most popular types of Sharpies include:

Fine Tip: Thin and precise, ideal for writing, drawing, and detailed work.
Medium Tip: Versatile and multipurpose, suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Bold Tip: Thick and bold, perfect for making a statement or marking surfaces.
Twin Tip: Features both a fine and a bold tip, providing versatility in a single marker.
Permanent: Resistant to water, fading, and smudging, ideal for permanent marking.
Metallic: Shimmering and vibrant inks, perfect for adding a touch of sparkle or creating eye-catching effects.
Gel: Smooth and pigmented ink, known for its rich and vibrant colors.

Uses of Sharpies

The uses of Sharpies are virtually endless. Here are just a few of the many ways people use them:

• Writing: Sharpies are perfect for writing notes, letters, and lists. Their bold ink is easy to read and won't smear.
• Drawing: Sharpies are a popular choice for artists of all levels. Their fine and bold tips allow for precise line work and detailed shading.
• Marking: Sharpies are great for marking tools, equipment, and other objects. Their permanent ink is resistant to wear and tear.
• Color Coding: Sharpies are available in a wide range of colors, making them ideal for color-coding files, notes, and other items.
• Craft Projects: Sharpies can be used to create a variety of craft projects, such as painted mugs, decorated fabric, and personalized jewelry.

Benefits of Using Sharpies

There are many benefits to using Sharpies, including:

• Durability: Sharpie inks are water-resistant, fade-resistant, and smudge-resistant. They will last for years without fading or losing their potency.
• Versatility: Sharpies can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, including paper, plastic, metal, glass, and wood.
• Precision: Sharpies have a variety of tip sizes to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
• Affordability: Sharpies are very affordable, making them a great value for your money.

Tips and Tricks for Using Sharpies

Here are a few tips and tricks for using Sharpies:

• Prime the Marker: Before using a new Sharpie, prime it by shaking it vigorously and then writing on a piece of scrap paper until the ink starts to flow smoothly.
• Use the Right Tip: Choose the right tip size for your needs. Fine tips are best for writing, drawing, and detailed work, while bold tips are better for marking and making a statement.
• Store Sharpies Horizontally: To prevent the ink from drying out, store Sharpies horizontally.
• Clean Sharpie Tips: If the tip of your Sharpie gets clogged, you can clean it by rubbing it with a damp cloth or using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Why Sharpies Matter

Sharpies are more than just writing instruments; they are essential tools for anyone who wants to express themselves creatively or get their work done efficiently. Whether you're a student, an artist, or a professional, there's a Sharpie product that can help you achieve your goals.

Stories and What We Can Learn

Story 1:

A group of students used Sharpies to create a mural on the wall of their classroom. The mural was a colorful and inspiring expression of their creativity and teamwork.

Lesson Learned: Sharpies can be used to create beautiful and meaningful works of art.

Story 2:

A businessman used Sharpies to mark the pages of a report he was preparing for a presentation. The Sharpies helped him to keep track of his thoughts and ideas, and they made the report easier to present.

Lesson Learned: Sharpies can be used to organize and communicate information effectively.

Story 3:

A construction worker used Sharpies to mark measurements on a piece of lumber. The Sharpies helped him to make precise cuts, which resulted in a sturdy and well-built structure.

Lesson Learned: Sharpies can be used to ensure accuracy and precision in a variety of tasks.

Comparison of Pros and Cons

Sharpie Statistics

• According to the NPD Group, Sharpies are the number one selling marker brand in the United States.
• Sharpies are sold in over 100 countries around the world.
• Over 30 million Sharpies are produced each year.
• The Sharpie name is derived from the word "sharp," which refers to the marker's ability to create clean and precise lines.

Sharpie Tables

Table 1: Sharpie Tip Sizes

Table 2: Sharpie Colors

Table 3: Sharpie Types

Conclusion

Sharpies are the ultimate marking tool for any need. Their durability, versatility, precision, and affordability make them a must-have for students, artists, and professionals alike. Whether you're writing, drawing, marking, or creating, there's a Sharpie product that will help you get the job done.