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Are Acrylic Paint Markers Permanent?

Yes, acrylic paint markers are permanent on paper and canvas. However, there are a few things you should know if you plan to work on other materials like fabric, wood, stone, ceramics, and more.

Acrylic paint in general dries to a durable and glossy finish. It will remain opaque and vibrant for a long time, especially if you use it for display pieces like painted rocks and wood. But just like any other paint, it can crack or fade on daily-use items such as mugs, bags, coasters, or pencil cases. You can avoid this by setting or sealing the paint, which will prolong the life of your artwork.

To set acrylic paint on fabric, let it dry completely (at least 24 hours) and heat-press with an iron. Make sure to turn the fabric inside out before pressing and don’t iron directly on the painted surface. This ensures that the paint will hold up even after several washes.

You can also set acrylic paint on mugs and ceramics by baking. Put the painted mug or dish in a cool oven and set the temperature to 350°F. Once this temperature is reached, bake for 30 minutes to ensure a permanent finish. Important: wash painted dishes only by hand!

Finally, you protect your acrylic artworks using varnish. There are plenty of types available ranging from matte, glossy, and satin — and they can be used on surfaces like wood, plastic, and rocks to “lock in” your creations. There are even spray varnishes available for the most convenient application!