Hey there! You must be here deciding whether to buy a chalk market or regular chalk for your art. Indeed, they do not offer the same effects.
It would be helpful to differentiate and sketch out the advantages and disadvantages of using chalk markers vs regular chalk. Then, you can make an informed decision about which chalk better suits your stationery needs. So, there’s no time to lose. Follow along!
Table of Contents
First of All, What is a Chalk Marker?
Although chalk markers have the word “chalk” in their name, this marker is not made from the same composition as regular chalk.
Chalk markers, otherwise known as chalk pens or liquid chalk, are made from another liquid substance. Chalk markers use pigment ink placed in a marker container. This ink dries to a powder-like texture.
Like traditional chalks, chalk markers work on chalkboards, too but are not limited to that. They work best on a non-porous surface like a car window, glass surface, whiteboard, ceramics, and many more.
We use the chalk markers just like a marker pen. Just press down on the marker’s nib, and the pigment-based ink flows out of the pen.
So, What is Regular Chalk?
Regular chalk is that slender dusty writing stick you usually see in classrooms, traditionally paired with chalkboards as a medium for writing. However, using chalk is not limited to chalkboards only.
Chalks can be used on any surface similar to a chalkboard, such as a sidewalk, pavement, wood, cardboard, and paper. Besides its classic white color, chalk comes in many muted or low-saturated colors, such as pink, yellow, red, and blue.
It is typically shaped as a cylinder. Although chalk used to be too dusty, most chalks are manufactured nowadays to have less dust.
The Distinction Between Chalk Markers and Regular Chalks
So is there a difference in the chalk materials? Besides mentioning earlier that they are not composed of the same substance and ingredients, chalk markers and traditional chalk also have other differences– which we will discuss further!
- The first distinction is that chalk markers have smooth liquid with a dry-down powdery texture, while regular chalks have a dry and powder-like texture. Because of this, regular chalks are easier to remove or erase than chalk markers.
- Of course, their chemical properties are also different. Chalk markers are made of magnesium carbonate mixed with alcohol, producing a liquid consistency. Meanwhile, regular chalks are made of calcium carbonate, creating a powdery texture.
- As per the packaging, chalk markers usually come in a press-down cylinder vessel with several nib sizes and shapes. Regular chalks are shaped in consumable cylinders with no packaging around.
- Lastly, the medium for writing also differs. Chalk markers target porous and non-porous surfaces. However, regular chalks are only used on rough surfaces.
Pros and Cons
Now that you know the difference between liquid chalk vs regular chalk, we can discuss both pros and cons. Hopefully, this can help you decide which chalk suits your needs better.
Chalk Marker
- After application, the colors will remain vivid and vibrant.
- Dust-free when applied and removed.
- It works on either non-porous or porous surfaces. But for erasable art, it works exceptionally well on non-porous surfaces.
- Difficult to remove.
- More expensive.
Regular Chalk
- More affordable
- Easier to remove or erase.
- Kid-friendly writing material.
- Low-saturated colors
- Dusty and messy when applying and erasing
- Can only work on porous or rough surfaces
- Fade within a span of a few days
- Can leave leftover pigment
Frequently Asked Questions
Are chalk markers better than chalk?
Between chalk markers vs. regular chalks, the markers offer a better user experience than traditional chalk, based on the earlier information.
Chalk markers are ideal for people who are allergic to dust. The colors are vibrant and eye-catching compared to the traditional chalks’ muted coloring.
For instance, if you want to use erasable blackboard chalk markers in a classroom, you would need to use a non-porous surface, such as a whiteboard or a glass board.
Many contemplate the price of chalk marker vs chalk; however, investing in chalk markers is still better in the long run due to its advantages. So, it is a better bang for your buck.
Why use chalk markers?
Due to chalk markers being more versatile in terms of color ranges and application on different surfaces, you may consider using them.
Chalk markers come in many colors and marker nib types. Such as white ink, bolder colors, neon colors, and metallic finishes. The marker nibs come in chisel types, broad types, and even thinner nibs.
Are chalk markers permanent?
Well, it may vary. Chalk markers used for non-porous surfaces can be easily wiped off. However, the marker will remain permanent if used on a porous surface, such as a blackboard, wood, and paper.
That is why there is no such thing as liquid chalkboard markers.
Before drawing or writing on a surface, test out the markers before fully committing to sketching on the surface. If you cannot wipe it off after application, it would be best to use another material to write or draw on.
Can I remove chalk markers?
Suppose you want to erase the liquid chalk from a surface with a cloth. Please note that this method only works with non-porous surfaces.
However, if you are removing the chalk from a porous surface, feel free to use these methods as a chalk marker remover:
- An ammonia-based cleanser
- Baby wipes or wet wipes
- Magic eraser (any generic type will do)
- Vinegar diluted in water
- Windex
- Chalk marker-specific removers
Conclusion
Hooray! Can you now distinguish the two types of chalk? Based on the differentiation and pros and cons list we’ve mentioned above, you already know which suits you best!
But of course, it still depends on how you intend to use it. What type of surface do you want to use? Do you want vibrant or muted colors? Do you wish to purchase the most cost-efficient product?
Our advice? Figure those out first, and then you’ll know what to buy! At least you already know everything you need to know about chalk markers vs regular chalk.
Hi, I am Eveline Kessler, a content creator. My love for colors and arts draws me here to join the Intermediarts team with Leilani. I am responsible for testing new products and techniques with her and providing honest reviews and tips based on our experience. I have gained a lot of knowledge from this, and I believe you will find her suggestions to be invaluable as well.
