Art markers are a fantastic tool for artists of all skill levels, offering vibrant colors, smooth blending, and precision. However, beginners often face several challenges when learning to use them effectively. Mistakes can lead to frustration, but understanding these common pitfalls can help you improve your skills quickly. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common mistakes beginners make with art markers and how to avoid them.
Choosing the Wrong Type of Markers
One of the first mistakes beginners make is choosing the wrong type of marker for their needs. Art markers come in different types, including:
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Alcohol-based markers (e.g., Copic, Prismacolor, Touch Twin): great for blending, vibrant colors, and professional results.
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Water-based markers (e.g., Tombow, Crayola, Sakura): Ideal for brush lettering, calligraphy, and watercolor effects.
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Oil-based markers (e.g., Sharpie, Uni Posca): suitable for painting on different surfaces like glass, metal, and plastic.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Before purchasing markers, understand your goals. If you want smooth blends and professional results, alcohol-based markers are the best choice. If you prefer softer, watercolor-like effects, go for water-based markers.
Not Using the Right Paper
Beginners often make the mistake of using regular printer paper for art markers. This can lead to issues like bleeding, feathering, and poor blending. Regular paper absorbs too much ink, leading to inconsistent colors and damaged marker tips.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Use marker-friendly paper such as:
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Marker paper: specially designed for alcohol markers to prevent bleeding.
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Bristol board: smooth and thick, great for blending.
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Mixed media paper: works well for both markers and other art mediums.
Applying Too Much Pressure
Many beginners apply too much pressure when using markers, thinking it will make colors more vibrant. Instead, this damages the marker tips and makes blending more difficult.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Use a light hand and let the ink flow naturally. Layer colors gradually instead of pressing down hard.
Not Understanding How to Blend Properly
Blending is one of the key advantages of using art markers, but beginners often struggle with it. Common blending mistakes include:
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Using too much ink creates blotches.
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Not layering colors correctly.
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Letting the ink dry too fast before blending.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Use similar shades when blending.
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Work while the ink is still wet to achieve a seamless transition.
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Use a colorless blender to help smooth out edges.
Ignoring the Importance of Layering
Beginners often use one thick layer of color instead of building up layers gradually. This results in uneven tones and patchy areas.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Start with a light base layer and gradually build up color intensity.
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Use multiple light strokes instead of one heavy coat.
Using the Wrong Marker Tips
Markers come with different tip types, including:
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Brush tips: flexible, great for smooth blending and soft strokes.
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Chisel tips: best for covering large areas and making thick lines.
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Fine tips—good for details and precision work.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Choose the right tip for your artwork. If you're focusing on blending and gradients, brush tips are ideal. For detailed work, go with fine tips.
Ignoring the Importance of Swatching
Beginners often rely on the marker’s cap color, which can be misleading. The actual ink color on paper may differ from what is shown on the cap.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Always create a swatch chart by testing each marker on your preferred paper before starting your artwork.
Not Allowing Ink to Dry Before Adding Layers
Applying multiple layers too quickly can lead to muddy colors and streaks.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Wait a few seconds between layers to let the ink dry slightly.
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If blending, work while the ink is still wet, but if adding details, wait until it is fully dry.
Not Cleaning Marker Tips
Ink buildup can cause markers to stop working properly, making it hard to get clean strokes.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Wipe marker tips with a scrap piece of paper or a clean cloth if they seem clogged.
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Store markers properly (horizontally for dual-tip markers, vertically for single-tip markers).
Forgetting to Use a Scrap Paper Underneath
Art markers tend to bleed through paper, which can stain surfaces and ruin other pages.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Always place a scrap piece of paper or a protective sheet under your artwork to absorb excess ink.
Overcomplicating the Drawing
Beginners often try to use too many colors or overwork their drawings, which can make the artwork look messy.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Stick to a limited color palette.
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Plan your artwork before starting.
Not Practicing Enough
Like any art medium, mastering markers takes practice. Many beginners give up too soon because they feel discouraged by early mistakes.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
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Keep practicing small exercises, such as shading, blending, and creating gradients.
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Watch tutorials and learn from experienced artists.
Final Thoughts
Art markers are a powerful tool for creating stunning artwork, but avoiding these common beginner mistakes can make your learning process much smoother. By choosing the right materials, practicing proper techniques, and understanding how markers behave, you can quickly improve your skills. Keep experimenting, enjoy the process, and most importantly—have fun with your art!
