Tao of Sharpie

If I've never mentioned this, now seems to be a good time...I love Sharpie's. I use Sharpie's all the time, especially at work. I am often in need of writing on large easel pads or making notes onto index cards, and no other pen will do. If you want people to be able to read your work from some distance, or want to boldly capture a singular thought on an index card or post it, then Sharpie is THE ONLY WAY TO GO. I have tried every other permanent marker available...the Staples knock-off brand, Avery Marks-a-lot, Bic Mark-it, Eberhard-Faber, RediSharp and countless others - and the bottom line is they all stink. Here is why:

• Knock-off brands: low grade quality
• Avery: The Native American name for this one is, "Label that bleeds all over hands"
• Bic: Tip diminishes in less than one page
• Eberhard-Faber: Motto - "We make great charcoal art supplies, oh you wanted a permanent marker? Did we mention we make good charcoal art supplies?"
• RediSharp: They have a soft rubber grip. That's it...soft, rubber grip. Hanging their hat on that one?

I have every size of Sharpie known to man in my bag...not just in the office - but the bag! I use the extra fine point to write notes to people (like I'm some kind of grade-school student - writing notes to people?), I use the retractable Sharpie (prefer orange) to write during group exercises, I use the bold chisel tip to make notes on large easel pads, and the minis I hang in places that I might need to make a permanent mark on - like in the garage.

I am a bit of a writing tool fanatic. I kept one mechanical pencil through high school and college, as an example. So pens matter to me, even though my penmanship might not indicate it. Maybe that is why I like the Sharpie...it's a pen that works - works well, and can be utilized for so many jobs. What would make them better, is if they made a refillable one. I'd spend $40 on a retractable Sharpie that I could buy refills for.

Comments

[Jill]

knock off Sharpies at OC Marketplace in Orange County, CA. Beware....look for brand name "Chao Neng" But hey, it's only $1 for a pack of seven. ;)

[Ginger]

I use the paint pens on my art. Everything from sneaks to my computer. Whatever I want to tweak. Keep up the good work.

[a.brain]

Mr. Orange....actually I do prefer the RT fine point...not to be confused with the extra fine point. And yes...orange or red is the color du jour...

[Game]

The RT is the choice of celebrities world wide - and not black, but red, blue or purple.

[Shadow]

You guys inspire me! I'm gonna start carrying a sharpie around hoping the people near me recognize my potential for famousness.
If that fails at least I'll still leave my mark on society...
okay, that was lame, but at least I went for it.

[Mr Orange]

I know you are a busy guy and all traveling around the country, but it is pretty obvious what you are doing back in your office. That is sooo cool, how do I get a job like that?

Do you love all sharpies equally? Or do you have a favorite? ...might it be orange? Just wondering.

Later,

Mr Orange

[AmyWafl]

My - I'd never expect Sharpies and the like would have such a following... obviously I haven't been taking time to "stop and smell the Sharpies."

[a.brain]

I have not tried the paint pens...but am eager to find a reason too. What kinds of projects do you use the paint pens "Ginger"?

[Ginger Spice]

Everyday! Have you tried the paint pens? They are a bit pricey, they are however, worth every red cent.

[squarerod]

Sharpies are the writing stylus of the famous. They always have one for on stand by for autographs.

Thats why I carry one.

[china]

If you can put your studliness aside, go to the nearest hobby/craft store and get a set of scrapbooking markers. Some have broad and thin tips --one on each end and they come in a variety of vivid colors. They are usually permanent and if you want to save those meeting notes for years--- well they are acid and legin free.

[a.brain]

Yeah, I know what you mean Tom. The extra fine are my least preferred marker as well.

[tom delong]

I prefer the fat markers to the extra fine size...rather use a pen if I have to write that fine.