When Sharpie markers first came on the market in 1964, you could have them in whatever color you wanted, as long as that color was black. The marker was aimed at office workers, industrial workers and retailers, as it could write on anything from paper to glass and industrial materials. Interestingly, it became the go-to writing implement for celebrities signing autographs; it worked equally well on glossy photorgraphs, clothing, and bare skin.
It wasn't until the 1980s that Sharpie started adding colors, like red and blue. Now you can get the alcohol-based markers in dozens of colors.
But they never did target professionals and move into Copic's neighborhood, and if you're a classically-trained industrial designer, the only Sharpies you own are for marking up prototypes or labeling samples.
Instead Sharpie's gone in the opposite direction, leaning into the craft market with their new line of Creative Markers. These ditch the alcohol for a water-based acrylic ink with a paint-like consistency. They don't bleed, they're a bit more blendable, and they can be used to write on materials as diverse as ceramics, rocks and metals.
Those launched late last year, and were apparently a hit; the company has now followed up with a line of Creative Markers in Earth Tones flavors.
The company says markers in their Creative line don't need to be shaken up and primed, but that you do need to store them horizontally.
The Creative Markers run $18 for a 12-pack.
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