Sharpie facts for kids
Sharpie is a very popular brand of permanent markers. These special pens are made in the United States by a company called Newell Brands. People use Sharpie markers for many things, like writing, drawing, and labeling, because their ink stays on surfaces for a long time.
Contents
What Makes Sharpie Markers Special?
Sharpie markers are known for their ink that does not easily fade or wash away. This is why they are called "permanent" markers. The ink in a Sharpie is usually alcohol-based. This means it dries very quickly when you write with it. Once the ink dries, it becomes resistant to water and most smudges.
How Does Permanent Ink Work?
The ink in a Sharpie contains special dyes and a solvent, like alcohol. When you write, the solvent helps the dye stick to the surface. As the solvent evaporates into the air, the dye is left behind. This dye then bonds with the material you wrote on, making it hard to remove. This is why Sharpies are great for writing on many different surfaces, not just paper.
Different Types of Sharpie Markers
Sharpie makes many kinds of markers, each with a different tip or special feature. The tip of a marker is the part that touches the paper or surface. Different tips allow for different kinds of lines.
Fine Point Sharpies
The most common and popular Sharpie is the Fine Point marker. It has a tip that makes clear, medium-sized lines. This size is great for everyday writing, drawing, and signing. It is a good all-around marker for many tasks.
Ultra Fine Point Sharpies
For very detailed work, there is the Ultra Fine Point Sharpie. Its tip is much smaller than the Fine Point. This allows you to write tiny letters or draw very small details. It is perfect for adding small notes or intricate designs.
Other Useful Sharpie Tips
- Extra Fine Point: This tip is slightly larger than the Ultra Fine but still great for precision.
- Brush Tip: These Sharpies have a flexible tip that looks like a paintbrush. You can make thick or thin lines depending on how much pressure you use. They are popular for calligraphy and art.
- Chisel Tip: A chisel tip is flat and angled. You can use it to make wide lines or thin lines by changing the angle you hold the marker. These are often used for bold writing or creating different styles of lettering.
- Retractable Tip: Some Sharpies have a tip that can be pulled back into the marker. This means you do not need a cap, which is handy when you are on the go.
Where Are Sharpies Used?
Sharpie markers are used by people of all ages for many different reasons.
For School and Art Projects
Students often use Sharpies for school projects, posters, and art. They are great for outlining drawings or adding bold titles. Artists also use them for illustrations, comic books, and street art. The wide range of colors available makes them very versatile for creative work.
For Home and Office Tasks
Around the house, Sharpies are useful for labeling boxes, organizing items, or writing on plastic containers. In offices, they can be used to mark files, sign documents, or create signs. Their permanent ink ensures that labels and notes stay clear and readable for a long time.
For Special Occasions
Many people use Sharpies to get autographs from their favorite athletes or celebrities. The ink dries quickly and does not smudge, making it perfect for signing jerseys, photos, or other memorabilia.
A Brief History of Sharpie
The first Sharpie marker was introduced in 1964 by the Sanford Ink Company. It was called the "Sharpie Fine Point" marker. It was the first pen-style permanent marker that could write on almost any surface. Over the years, Sharpie grew to offer many more colors and tip styles, becoming a household name around the world.
Important Safety Tips
While Sharpies are fun and useful, it is good to remember a few safety tips. Always use Sharpie markers in a place with good airflow, like near an open window. This helps to make sure you do not breathe in too much of the ink's smell. Also, try not to get the ink on your skin or clothes, as it can be hard to wash off!
