lockrefundfacebookinstagram documentsearch

How to Remove Stubborn Marker Marks

Like it or not, artwork can spill over to hands, to the table, or on your clothing. Washable or ultra-washable markers can be removed in normal conditions.  Permanent and special markers like metallic and glitter markers, are more difficult to remove.

There are three general types of marker removal methods:

  • Alcohol
  • Fats/oils
  • Abrasives

Many of these items are home and personal care products, such as:

Alcohol

  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Makeup remover

Fats/oils

  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Baby oil

Abrasives

  • Sea salt scrub
  • Whitening toothpaste

Alcohol-Based Removal Methods

Alcohol and solvents can remove paint and varnish, so take care and test the cleaning method on a less-visible spot.

Dab the alcohol or solvent with a clean cotton pad or cloth. 

Fats

Some solvents are removed with fats or oil, such as milk, olive oil, and baby oil. If possible, soak the stain in one of these substances for a half hour or longer and then gently scrub it with something soft like a makeup removal pad.

Abrasives

We do not mean using a belt sander on the mark! Whitening toothpaste, sea salt scrubs and soda bicarbonate are incredibly fine abrasives that brushed gently over a mark will remove it layer-by-layer.

Color Swell Markers and Other Art Supplies

Head over to the Color Swell store for different types of markers and other art supplies.

Back to Journal