Paint markers are an excellent way to apply small amounts of paint in a steady stream. They are impractical for painting an entire figure, but are ideal for eye painting, seam painting, or adding that Correllian Bloodstripe. You can find them under a variety of names at various arts and crafts stores, such as Michaels and Blicks. They are often located with the calligraphy supplies.

Pen tips range from .20 to .50mm (pretty much in .05mm increments). All sizes are available in red, green, blue, and black. Some sizes have a wider color range, including orange, brown, rose, and purple.

The actual paint is called a "micro pigment ink," which seems to dry well on most plastics, unlike enamels.

If you want to experiment with paint markers but aren't sure they'll work for you, JoAnn's sells a very inexpensive brand, "Painters" Ultra Fine Opaque Paint Marker, to try out.

If you've used paint markers and have any additional tips to add, please send them to darthschroeder@copper.net

Step 1

Press the tip lightly onto the surface. A fresh pen doesn't bleed much, but the felt tip will fray with continued use or from excessive pressure.

Step 2

When first applied, the lines are very easy to smear -- or wipe off if you make a mistake. This smudging can actually come in handy for simulating carbon scoring or streaking dirt. Once dried, though, the mark is pretty stable, at least on styrene plastic.