Everything from the beauty blenders to makeup brushes, all the way to kitchen utensils and phone covers, is great. Generally, it's flexible, durable, and somewhat resistant to water and heat. Silicone can be found in many items one uses day in and day out. However, things get dicey when marking or writing on silicone involves some method. Whether you want to label your silicone beauty tools or customize your silicone products, finding the right pen that can stay on this slippery surface is a rather uphill task.
Don't miss out on the chance to transform your makeup routine!
In this article, we will go into depth about which pens work great on silicone, why some pens don't work, and provide actionable tips for making your writing last. From there to the end, you will understand which pens to use and how to make your marking last, without fading or smudging.
Why Is Writing on Silicone Difficult?
That is what makes silicone such a useful material, but it is also what makes it resistant to most inks and markers. The nonporous, smooth surface of silicone prevents typical ink from adhering properly, with its flexible nature meaning even if you do get a mark on it, that mark can easily rub off.
Also, as silicone is hypoallergenic and resistant to water, that generally makes it much more challenging to mark with regular pens or markers. You need to use special pens or markers actually designed to cling to the nightmare surface of silicone successfully in order to be able to write on it.
What Pen Stays on Silicone?
Let's dive into some of the best options for pens that work on silicone, so labeling and customizing your items becomes a breeze.
1. Oil-Based Permanent Markers
Above all other writing media, oil-based permanent markers work best on silicone. This will be clearly explained below. Oil-based permanent markers are really designed to write on slick and nonporous surfaces like silicone, glass, and plastic. The pigments of the oil-based marker actually bond to the surface, which makes it much more durable, resistant to water or smudging.
Examples of markers that work nicely on silicone include Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, which are available in various colors, easy to find, and hence convenient for use in labeling or personalizing in silicone. These markers are also quick-drying, with water-resistant ink to keep your markings intact.
Pro Tip: Allow the ink to dry completely prior to using or handling the item of silicone to avoid smudging or fading.
2. Industrial Permanent Markers
Permanent markers in industry are designed to write on everything from silicone to nearly any other material. They are commonly used within a manufacturing or engineering setting since they also wear, water, and fade very well. They would be the best fit for those who are looking for a pen that stays put even with heavy handling.
Example: Artline 444XF Industrial Permanent Marker is quite durable and serves quite well on silicone. It has been designed for difficult-to-write-on surfaces and promises longevity.
Pro Tip: Always test the marker in a small, inconspicuous area of the silicone item to make sure it will stick properly without damaging the surface.
3. Paint Pens
Among other very good options for marking silicones are the paint pens. Unlike those pens, which normally use ink, these pens use thicker, more viscous paint that air-dries into a durable layer on the surface of the silicone. These pens are ideal in cases where labeling should be decorative or colored; several bright shades are usually available for variation.
Example: Uni Posca Paint Pens are considered to be among the most versatile and long-lasting. Their ink is water-based but dries in such a way that there is a very strong bond with silicone, which cannot be rubbed or washed off.
Pro Tip: If you apply paint pens on silicone, apply two coats, allowing proper adherence of the paint. First, apply one coat; let it dry completely, then apply the second.
4. Specialty Silicone Markers
The specialty silicone markers are uniquely designed to adhere to silicone. While common in many industrial and medical areas, it becomes a great tool for the beauty fanatic to label specific silicone products like beauty blenders or makeup brush handles.
Example: Aroic Permanent Silicone Markers are designed to work on silicone and other non-porous materials. They're great for smaller items where precision is important.
Pro Tip: Specialty markers can be a bit more expensive compared to their traditional siblings, but the longevity and precision make them more than worth the investment if you find yourself writing on silicone with any sort of regularity.
How to Make Ink Last on Silicone
That being said, even with the right pen in hand, getting ink to stay on silicone requires a little extra care. Following are actionable tips that will make your markings last longer:
1. Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Before trying to write on the silicone, the surface should be free of oils, dust, or any other kind of residue. Take rubbing alcohol and pass it over the silicone to clear it of any contaminants that could interfere with the ink's grapple.
Pro Tip: Where possible, avoid using soaps or cleansers that might be left behind on the surface because it can impede proper bonding between the ink and the silicone.
2. Give Adequate Time to Dry Properly
Once you apply the ink, allow it to dry for a while. This is because even if it feels dry to the touch, it may not be bonded very well to the silicone. For better results, let the marked item untouched for at least a full day of 24 hours for the setting of ink to take place.
3. Apply a Sealant as an Added Protection
Put a clear sealant over the writing if you would like your markings to last as long as possible. Sealants compatible with silicones include a clear silicone adhesive or a spray sealant. These will help by not allowing ink to fade or rub off.
Pro Tip: If you're sealing items that will be coming into direct contact with skin, like beauty blenders or makeup brushes, make sure to use a non-toxic option that's friendly to the skin. That's all on achieving long-lasting results on silicone.
Writing on silicones could be rather tricky, but with good tools and techniques applied, one should expect lasting and vivid results. Some of the best options to mark on this tough surface include oil-based permanent markers, industrial markers, paint pens, and specialty markers in silicone ink. By following the below actionable tips, such as thorough cleaning of the surface, adequate drying of ink, and application of sealant for added protection, you will be assured that your markings last longer and look great over time.
Be it labeling silicone beauty tools or customizing other silicone items, the right pen can make all the difference in how professional and durable the result will be.
Don't miss out on the chance to transform your makeup routine!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will regular permanent markers work on silicone?
While some regular permanent markers may leave their mark on silicone to begin with, most of them fade out or rub off rather quickly. Oil-based or industrial permanent markers usually tend to work more satisfactorily for longer-lasting results on silicone.
2. What if I make a mistake and have to take some ink off of silicone?
You can attempt to use either rubbing alcohol or acetone to take ink off of silicone. You would not want to use acetone on the surface of some silicone items because it could destroy the item.
3. Can I use a paint pen on silicone?
Yes, paint pens work well on silicone. They produce a robust layer of paint that clings well to the surface and does not rub or wash off easily.
4. Can oil-based markers be used on silicone beauty tools?
In labeling the beauty tools like silicone beauty blenders, one needs to utilize only those markers which are nontoxic and skin-friendly. Check the safety information for every marker.
5. How long does the ink take to dry on silicone?
Ink can be dry to the touch in mere minutes, but for the best results, let ink cure for about 24 hours before handling the item made from silicone.
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