Permanent or Fabric markers?

Question

Having a sleepover party for my daughter, I want to have everyone autograph pillowcases as an activity which will be taken home as a party favor. Should we use Permanent markers OR fabric markers? Why? What are the pros and cons? Thanks!

Answer 1

Fabric markers and permanent markers are of course both permanent, both will eventually fade over time with repeated washing. BUT, fabric markers are less likely to run or bleed when you first use them. The type of ink that is used to make the fabric marker will stay where you put it instead of running along the threads.
Does this make sense?

Answer 2

I'd like to echo what was just said about bleeding... some permanent markers will bleed or change color with washing/drying (not talking about fading here).

Also the composition of the fabric can matter for some markers, crayons, etc.... some do best (fade less) on 100& natural fibers like cotton, some do best on synthetics (read the packages for which).

In addition to washing first to remove any sizing, I'd also recommend that you not wash them for at least a week, and also not use a harsh detergent (like Tide) when you do...something more gentle like Cheer or All, I think, will keep the color better.
It might also help to turn them inside out when you wash, use a gentle cycle, and air dry (or wash by hand of course).

OTOH, the kids will love what they've done and they'll probably last long enough for them to have had their "experience."

Also, it can be a good idea to stretch the fabric tightly over something stiff and flat so they can "sign" more easily... that's especially true if you want them to be able to draw on the fabric a bit too.
When I once did this with kids for quilt squares, I sprayed repositionable adhesive on squaares of matte board, let it dry, then pressed the fabric square onto it without wrinkles (and taped on the back) before having them do their artwork. Worked well.

Hope they have fun!

Diane B.

Answer 3

Fabric markers fade less. Both markers make permanent marks on clothing (even though they may fade over time as in the case of permanent markers).

Make sure that this is an age appropriate activity. Markers can be toxic. Kids like to use markers for tattoo art and prefer markers that promise to make the tattoo last. Be very sure that the kids are fully informed about any dangers and consequences. And watch the ones with an attitude, they are likely to have tuned you out and will mess up.

Answer 4

I haven't used fabric markers for a really long time, I remember when I did I wasn't terribly satisfied with the results - although it has been about 8 years, and something better might be on the market now.

What I do really like that marks on fabric really really well and permanently is Sharpie markers, which you can now get in a rainbow of colors. And even cooler, when your party is over, you can still use them! My nieces and I have used them to color clothing and shoes permanently. They could each draw a picture on the pillowcases along with their autographs too.

Wash the pillowcases first to remove any sizing, which might interfere with the ink absorption, and as with any art project, try it before you set everyone up to do it. You might even want to have a 'tester pillowcase' or similar piece of fabric they can 'practice' on before tackling the project. We've drawn all over t-shirts as physical memories too.

Sounds like a really fun time, luck with it!!

Answer 5

Fabric markers are best. When washed,they will fade less than permanent markers.

Answer 6

Fabric Markers are great. I wouldn't use the Permament ones. Sounds like a fun Idea.. You could also have them make t-shirts. Get X-Large shirts for them to sleep in!!!

Answer 7

Fabric markets - they will last well through washings.