If you are a dedicated autograph-hunter, then you know how important it is to have the right writing instrument. The last thing you want when you meet a favorite celebrity or athlete is for your pen to fail. Just as bad is selecting the wrong pen for the item that is being signed. Because we understand how frustrating these problems can be, we embarked on a quest to identify the best markers for autographs.
Dozens of markers were tested. Some of them dispensed permanent ink while others dispensed paint. Moreover, we examined which pens performed best on which surfaces. For instance, a marker that works great on a photograph isn’t necessarily the right marker to use on a jersey.
Read on to discover our selections for the best pens for collecting autographs.
Contents
- 1 10 Best Markers for Autographs on the Market:
- 1.1 1. AmazonBasics Fine Point Tip Permanent Markers
- 1.2 2. Sharpie Metallic Permanent Markers, Fine Point
- 1.3 3. Sharpie 39108PP Fine Point Metallic Silver Permanent Marker
- 1.4 4. Dyvicl Metallic Markers Paint Marker Pens – Medium Point
- 1.5 5. Frienda Gold and Silver Metallic Marker Pens
- 1.6 6. PILOT Metallic Permanent Paint Markers, 1 Each Gold & Silver
- 1.7 7. Krylon K09901A00 Leafing Pen
- 1.8 8. Sharpie Retractable Permanent Markers, Fine Point
- 1.9 9. Uchida of America 350-CGLD DecoColor Premium 3 Way Chisel Point Pen
- 1.10 10. Sakura 44181 Identi-Pen Blister Card Permanent Marker
- 2 Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Markers for Autographs
- 3 Markers for Autographs FAQ
- 4 Making the Decision
10 Best Markers for Autographs on the Market:
1. AmazonBasics Fine Point Tip Permanent Markers
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This 12-pack of black markers is ideal for autograph hunters. Equipped with permanent ink, any signatures captured with these pens will stand the test of time.
Another characteristic that makes this the best marker for autographs is the durable, fine-point tip. It makes clean, bold lines that are easy to read.
Another important factor for autograph markers is how quickly their ink dries.
Fortunately, these markers have quick-drying, waterproof ink that lets you capture signatures in any weather conditions without fail.
It’s also worth noting that this ink works on virtually surface include photos, glass, plastic, metal, stone, wood and more.
All of these factors make these markers not only ideal for autographs but also for general use around the house. The ink is an intense black that shows up on anything with ease.
What Consumers Are Saying
Most people who have purchased these pens give them high marks for affordability and for the genuinely waterproof ink. Nonetheless, some users warn about the caps not always easily clicking into place.
- Durable fine tip
- Makes bold and slender lines
- Works on a variety of surfaces
- Must use care when replacing caps
Summary
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to brand names, this is a great choice.
2. Sharpie Metallic Permanent Markers, Fine Point
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
Manufactured by the trusted Sharpie brand, these are the best pens for baseball autographs thanks to the metallic sheen of the ink.
The gold, brown and silver variety pack is ideal for the white background of a baseball, but it can work just as well on items like photographs, posters and more.
The fine point of each pen is surprisingly durable, and it is excellent for use on hard surfaces.
With ink that flows easily from the tip, there’s never a need to shake or prime these pens to get them working.
The ink itself is specially formulated by Sharpie so that it is permanent and opaque.
Whether used on light-colored or dark-colored surfaces, this ink will definitely stand out.
These made in the USA pens include the best silver marker for autographs. That’s because the ink dries fast and resists both water and fading. Coverage is excellent, even when used over larger surfaces.
What Consumers Are Saying
Not surprisingly, many people swear by these Sharpie markers for collecting autographs and millions of other uses. However, several people complain that the gold version just doesn’t pop like the others.
- Reliable Sharpie quality
- Excellent fade resistance
- Durable tips
- Gold ink appears dull compared to others
Summary
Anyone looking for a silver marker for autographs will love this option.
3. Sharpie 39108PP Fine Point Metallic Silver Permanent Marker
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This blister pack of two silver metallic Sharpies is an excellent choice for the autograph hunter.
The sheen on this ink is amped up for amazing results on both light and dark surfaces. Opaque and permanent, you’ll never have to worry about this ink fading.
These are the best pens for autographs because the ink is so pleasingly bold. Plus, the fine points are capable of making both detailed and bold strokes, making them perfect for signatures.
The quick-drying ink is a major plus when you’re collecting autographs. Also, it’s worth noting that the ink flows with ease without any shaking or other preparation.
What Consumers Are Saying
Saying that these pens leave behind marks that are incredibly easy to read on any surface, many people are devoted to these metallic Sharpies. About the only criticism of this product is that they run out of ink fast.
- Unbeatable sheen
- So easy to use
- Bold, permanent ink
- These markers go through ink fast
Summary
It’s impossible to go wrong with these bold and trustworthy markers.
4. Dyvicl Metallic Markers Paint Marker Pens – Medium Point
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This set of 10 diverse colors is your first choice if you’re looking for the best marker for autographs on fabric.
That is because these metallic markers have undoubtedly bright and shiny ink.
Plus, they are odorless, non-toxic and acid-free. Accordingly, your autographs and craft projects will definitely stand the test of time.
These markers have medium tips, which is another factor that makes them ideal for application on fabric.
They make bold, easy-to-read lines, and the ink freely flows.
Plus, it is definitely an advantage to have a choice from 10 colors, which also helps any autographs that you collect stand out on an background.
What Consumers Are Saying
Praising the highly pigmented ink, many people use these pens when to write on a variety of fabrics. They say that the ink stands out really well even on dark fabrics. Nonetheless, critics caution that the ink doesn’t dry particularly quickly.
- Vibrant colors
- Medium tips that are perfect for fabric
- Excellent ink flow
- The ink is not quick drying
Summary
When you’re collecting autographs on fabric items like t-shirts, these markers are winners.
5. Frienda Gold and Silver Metallic Marker Pens
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
If you are a sports fan who loves to collect signed helmets, then these markers are especially for you.
This pack of four pens includes two gold and two silver metallic markers.
Each 1.5 mm tip is perfect for collecting signatures because it’s just a little thicker than usual.
Accordingly, you’ll get bold, memorable autographs every time.
The writing experience with these pens is really smooth. Also of note is how fast the ink dries. Smears and smudges definitely won’t be a problem.
This opaque ink provides great coverage that is absolutely waterproof. Having a fine brush tip on each pen makes this the best marker for autographs on helmets.
Of course, you’re not restricted to using these pens on helmets. They work just as well on fabric, metal, glass, photos, wood and more.
What Consumers Are Saying
People love how these pens are able to leave bold marks. The color saturation is excellent on any color background. Like some other markers, these go through ink really fast.
- Smooth flowing ink
- Fantastic metallic colors
- Can be used on a wide variety of surfaces
- You may run out of ink really fast
Summary
For capturing signatures on helmets, these markers work like a charm.
6. PILOT Metallic Permanent Paint Markers, 1 Each Gold & Silver
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
Pilot is another one of those highly recognizable brand names, so it’s hard to go wrong with this choice.
The price isn’t bad for two high-quality pens that are equipped with extra-fine tips. It is that tip that makes this the best marker for autographs on jerseys.
The bold silver or gold ink that is dispensed from these pens looks great on dark backgrounds and looks almost as good on white or light-colored backgrounds.
Pilot is a trusted name in writing instruments thanks to their more than 100 years in business. Accordingly, these pens perform as well as you would expect them to.
These permanent markers feature a sparkly finish that can make any autograph stand out whether it’s placed on a photo, helmet, jersey or another item. The ink is always bright and vivid, and it flows really easily from the pen.
What Consumers Are Saying
People love these pens, especially because each marker has a ball to stir the ink inside the barrel. This means no separation and the uniform saturation of color. Be aware that you may need to shake or pump the pen to get the ink flowing.
- Excellent construction
- Fine-tip pen that’s perfect for certain applications
- Highly saturated ink that stands out on any background
- Must shake or pump the pen to start the ink flow
Summary
When you’re looking to capture an autograph on a jersey, these Pilot markers won’t let you down.
7. Krylon K09901A00 Leafing Pen
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
The price on this single pen is a little bit high, but most people think that it is worth the price. That’s because of the 18 karat gold paint that this marker dispenses.
Originally intended as a means to add gold leaf to a variety of craft projects, people have since discovered that these are the best pens for book autographs because the ink looks so amazing on the page.
Another point in this marker’s favor is that it has a chiseled tip.
This means that it is possible to write thick, bold lines and small, delicate lines with equal ease. Accordingly, this marker is ideal for capturing signatures.
With a thick, gorgeous sheen, these markers are really popular with autograph hunters because they provide such an easy way to make your favorite signatures even more memorable and valuable.
Be aware that you may experience a bit of dripping from the tip of this pen so use with care.
- Dispense 18 karat gold paint
- Thick, gorgeous sheen
- Easy flow for writing
- Drips and blobs may happen
Summary
If you want to capture an autograph that is memorable on many levels, then use this marker that dispenses 18 karat gold paint.
8. Sharpie Retractable Permanent Markers, Fine Point
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This package of two black Sharpies is a really economical choice, yet you still get that brand-name quality and reliability.
Users sometimes choose this particular model over the competition because the point is retractable.
That can be really useful when you’re in a situation where you’re likely to be jostled by a crowd as you try to collect autographs.
This is the best marker for autographs on cards because the ink is compatible with so many surfaces.
Whether the cardstock is glossy or not, these markers will leave a bold signature.
The ink is permanent, so use it with care. In addition to paper, these pens are great for marking metal, plastic, glass and other materials.
With quick-drying ink that’s resilient and bold, water and fading are unlikely to harm the autographs that you collect.
What Consumers Are Saying
People love the retractable tips, especially because there’s no cap to lose. Nonetheless, they do caution against keeping these markers in a pocket just in case the clicker gets activated, as this will leave a mess.
- Retractable tips
- Water- and fade-resistant ink
- Easy flowing ink
- May not want to store these pens in a pocket
Summary
These markers put together Sharpie quality and the convenience of a retractable tip.
9. Uchida of America 350-CGLD DecoColor Premium 3 Way Chisel Point Pen
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
If you’re looking for a more economical choice in a gold paint pen, then you’ve got to check out this option.
The gold metallic-finish paint beautifully reflects light, which might be ideal if you’re going to be displaying your autographed items for all to see.
The paint dispensed by this marker is saturated with pigment so that it always leaves a bold mark.
It is oil-based, and this means that it should be applied with care.
It’s definitely better not to get this paint on surfaces that you don’t intend to mark because removing those marks will involve chemicals like turpentine or acetone.
What Consumers Are Saying
Users love the chisel tip because it enables them to make both bold and delicate lines. That’s really ideal for getting autographs. Some critics do warn that this pen works best when it’s used slowly.
- An inexpensive marker with gold paint
- Makes really bold marks
- Super-saturated pigment
- Works best when moved slowly across the surface
Summary
If you want to make an autograph stand out on a dark background, then this is a fantastic choice.
10. Sakura 44181 Identi-Pen Blister Card Permanent Marker
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Review
This multi-surface marker is an excellent choice when you want to make an indelible mark.
With two tips, you get to choose which end of the pen is better for the autograph you want to collect and the material on which it will be captured.
One tip is a fine fiber tip while the other is an extra-fine plastic tip.
The waterproof ink is suitable for use on many surfaces including leather, photographs, plastic, wood, metal, glass and more.
Another really attractive feature is that this marker is low odor. That’s critical if you’re sensitive to smells.
What Consumers Are Saying
People say that these markers are incredibly smooth for writing, and while most enjoy using them, some remark that they have experienced the ink rubbing off of frequently used or touched items.
- Makes bold marks
- Has two tips
- Low odor
- The ink may rub off of frequently used or touched items
Summary
As long as you use these pens on autographed items that won’t be touched or used on a regular basis, they perform like champs.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Markers for Autographs
Whether you’re fascinated by athletes, movie stars or musicians, an autograph is a priceless keepsake that you’ll treasure forever. Of course, if you want that signature to stand the test of time, then it’s wise to use the right pen for the job.
In most cases, some type of marker is considered appropriate for getting signatures. These writing instruments tend to have easy flowing ink and to be reliable. They also create a bolder statement than a mere ballpoint pen, so that you’ll actually be able to see that signature from across the room.
Ink or paint
One of the first considerations you’ll have to weigh with an autograph marker is whether it dispenses ink or paint.
Ink is preferred by most people as it dries quickly and is less prone to clumping and blobs. Still, others swear by paint pens because of the incredibly bold marks that they make.
If you go this route, be prepared to allow plenty of drying time for your autographs.
Surface
You’ll also want to give some thought to the surface or material to which the autograph will be applied.
While some markers are suitable for almost any surface from fabric to metal, others are admirably suited to just one or two materials.
Before choosing a marker for a particular autograph, take a look at the item you’re having signed.
You may want a different marker depending upon whether you’re having a t-shirt or a helmet signed.
Сolor
Another critical factor to think about is the color of the ink or paint. In general, it’s not wise to use colors other than black, blue or silver for autographed items.
These colors tend to show up best on a wide variety of backgrounds, and they also tend to be more fade resistant.
Markers for Autographs FAQ
What color ink is best for autographs?
In general, it’s wise to stick with blue, black or silver when collecting autographs because these colors tend to show up best against a variety of backgrounds. Moreover, they tend to resist fading better than other colors.
Should I use an ink marker or a paint marker when collecting autographs?
Ink markers typically provide the best in reliability and function. You can nearly always trust them to start flowing as soon as the pen’s tip touches the surface. Paint pens can still be great, but they occasionally are subject to clumping or flow problems, which means you really have to know your marker so that you’re ready to collect an autograph. It may be necessary to prime your paint marker before you hand it to the celebrity who’ll be signing the autograph to avoid any awkwardness.
Can autographs fade?
If you use the right marker, then you’ll have little reason to fear fading. That’s because the ink and paint that are used in autograph markers are formulated to resist fading. To further protect your keepsake, be sure to protect your memorabilia from direct sunlight and to display it in a protective case or covering.
Making the Decision
When it comes to the best in functionality and reliability, you can’t go wrong with the Sharpie Fine Point Metallic Silver Permanent Marker. The ink dispensed by this pen is simply outstanding, and you can always trust this marker to get the ink flowing without hassle. The quick-drying ink also is a huge plus for autograph hounds.
Of course, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention our pick for the best markers for autographs if you prefer paint. Specifically, we recommend the Krylon Leafing Pen. Nothing beats the sheen of this paint, and this pen benefits from better, more reliable flow when compared with other paint pens.
