Markers
For drawing on the balloon, I have used dry erase markers, permanent markers, and paint pens. I’ll explain how each is different.
Permanent markers
You can pretty much use any permanent marker to draw on a balloon. The most common color you’ll usually need is black.
- Permanent markers (especially Sharpies) are so common and easy to find in stores in a variety of colors.
- I prefer the BIC Mark-It pens over the Sharpies, because the BIC Mark-It pens actually say they are acid-free, and so you can also use them on photos and other things too. (The acid from the ink can cause your balloon to deflate prematurely.)
- Permanent markers look quite nice and bold on the balloon.
- If I am twisting for kids, I prefer using dry erase markers. With permanent markers, if the balloon is popped, the ink isn’t quite so “permanent” and can rub off. (But it usually doesn’t really matter.)
- My newest find are the Cra-Z-Art markers. They are acid-free, the metallic colors are quite nice, and they can be washed off with soap and water.
BIC Mark-It Markers Fine Point, 36 Markers |
BIC Mark-It Markers Ultra Fine, 36 Markers |
Sharpie Markers |
Sharpie Markers |
Cra-Z-Art Markers Metallic colors |
Dry Erase Markers
- Dry erase markers also work quite well on balloons.
- The reason I prefer dry erase markers (over permanent markers) for kids is that if you pop the balloon, the ink won’t rub off.
- I like the fine tip Expo markers for more precise drawing.
Expo Dry Erase Markers Low odor, black |
Expo Dry Erase Markers Low odor, fine tip |
Expo Dry Erase Markers Low odor, fine tip |
Expo Dry Erase Markers Low odor, fine tip |
Expo Dry Erase Markers Low odor, fine tip |
Paint Pens
If you want to draw on dark colored balloons, you’ll need to use a paint pen.
- I often use them for drawing eyeballs.
- I’ve tried a couple paint pens and am still figuring out which one I like best. Currently, I prefer the Elmer’s pen because it is acid-free, but both have worked fine.
- You can usually find these pens in craft stores.
Elmer’s Painters Paint Marker Medium tip, white |
Elmer’s Painters Paint Marker Fine tip, white |
Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Marker |