Not only Marks A Lot ... but it’s long-lasting too!
Written: Jun 01 '04
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Product Rating:
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Pros: many colors, non-toxic, water resistant ink, chisel point to write in different widths
Cons: unpleasant ink odor when writing or drawing – permanent ink difficult to remove
The Bottom Line: I’ve outlined the Bottom Line in a rainbow of color. So pretty!
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| dlstewart's Full Review: AVERY - OFFICE PRODUCT GROUP Avery Marks-A-Lot Mar... |
For many years I have used Marks-A-Lot Permanent Markers. I’ve used them at home, at work and at friends’ homes. Despite all the colors available, I always seem to have red and black Marks-A-Lot markers on hand. They are the colors I use the most.
Description
Marks-A-Lot markers come in two sizes: regular and large. I normally buy the large markers but happen to have one black regular marker. The regular size is 5 1/8" long with a barrel diameter of 3/4". The tip is 1/4" long. The only difference I can see between the regular and large markers are the length, which means the larger marker holds more ink.
The two large Marks-A-Lot markers on my desk measure just shy of 6 1/2" long with a barrel diameter of 3/4". The wide barrel makes this pen easy to stand upright on its end. Each marker has a long 1 1/4" long cap, which is designed in a way that makes it look faceted. The top of the cap is an octagon shape and fits into the back of the marker so the cap doesn’t become lost. For such a large pen, you would think the tip would be just as big. However, the tip is only 1/4" long.
Since the tips are chiseled, these markers can write in a variety of widths. The markers also can write on paper, cardboard, metal and plastic. The long barrels hold a lot of ink, and the quick-drying ink is non-toxic and permanent. Ingredients for the inks are: alcohol and colored liquid. The manufacturer states that the ink is “water and rub resistant”.
When uncapped, the markers emit a distinctive, unpleasant odor. However, when the ink is dry, it is odorless. The manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) states: “Signs/Symptoms of overexposure: Irritation to Mucous Membranes, Nausea, Dizziness, Headaches.” The MSDS also says, “Store in cool non-smoking area” as the liquid is flammable.
These Marks-A-Lot markers come in a variety of colors: brown, yellow, orange, purple, green, blue, red, and black.
My Experiences
These are excellent markers, and I always have a few available. I have used the markers on paper, cardboard, plastic and metal with success. The ink stays where it is written, too. The only time I’ve had the ink rub off or smear is when the ink hasn’t quite dried, and this usually happens when applied to plastic or metal. I’ve never had ink smear on paper products. The ink does dry quickly, but especially on plastic requires a few more seconds to set.
If writing on paper materials, make sure the paper has something behind it. These markers will bleed through paper, leaving dots of permanent ink on the surface beneath it. Also allow the colors to completely dry if using multiple colors for a project. When wet, the colors can bleed together and stain the tip of the marker you are using.
Overall, the tips do not fray and last a long time. However, I have had a few of these markers last so long that the tips lost their “sharpness”.
I recommend using the Marks-A-Lot markers in an open area. The smell of the ink has made me dizzy when I’ve used the markers in an enclosed room. If using the markers in an enclosed area, open a window or have the air circulating.
Here are some ways I use these markers:
Envelopes
When dropping material off at a friend’s house, I use the marker to jot a note or the person’s name on the manilla envelope. The marker writes a bold eye-catching line.
Packages
The red marker comes in handy for writing “First Class Mail” on packages. If I don’t have time to type a label, I’ve written the mailing address directly on the carton with the black marker. The ink is water-resistant and will not smudge.
Moving Cartons
When helping friends relocate, I always make sure to have several Marks-A-Lot markers to label the cartons with their contents and the room where they belong. The markers create bold text for easy viewing.
Plastic Bins
I have several plastic bins that are used for recycling. To make sure the bins are used for that purpose, I’ve labeled them using the Marks-A-Lot marker. The marker is also great for placing a name or address on curbside trash containers. That way when the wind blows the containers across every property but yours, the neighbors will know who to blame ... ummmm, I mean return them to.
Tools and Toys
When the kids each bought their own trowels and gardening tools, the marker came in handy for writing their names on their new possessions. That way there are no complaints over who owns what. I’ve also used the marker to jot their names on plastic toys when they receive the same item.
Craft Projects
I’ve participated in various craft projects with adults and children that have specifically stated to use Marks-A-Lot permanent markers. One project was to create a bowl using markers to color a design on a clear plastic bowl. The Marks-A-Lot marker was suggested since the broad tip and ink supply provides enough ink so that only one coat is necessary to color an area ... a thinner-tipped marker (such as a Sharpie) would probably need several coats of ink application.
Signs
While I love using the computer to make signs, sometimes a hand-written sign with permanent water-resistant ink is the only way to go.
These are just a few ways I use these markers. A note: when children are using the markers, always make sure they are supervised. The ink is permanent.
Likes
* Assortment of colors
* Permanent Ink
* Ink dries quickly & is non-toxic
* Chisel tips allow different widths of writing or drawing
* Writes on paper, cardboard, plastic and metal
* Convenient size to throw in a bag or purse
Dislikes
* Permanent ink difficult to remove
* Ink odor can make one dizzy
Purchasing
Staples.com and Office Depot sell a 12-pack of the Marks-A-Lot markers for $7.85, but they do not list what size they are. I have also purchased the markers at local department stores and pharmacies. Buying one marker costs about 75-cents to $1.00. CompUSA.com sells the black markers (regular size) in a 2-pack for $1.59.
Summary
Marks-A-Lot Permanent Markers will always be a staple in my house and work area. They serve so many purposes, and the colors are bold. It’s a comfort knowing the ink is water resistant, too. That way I don’t have to worry about the ink smearing on mailed packages. The Marks-A-Lot markers definitely mark a lot!
I hope you have found this review useful.
Enjoy your day,
Dawn
http://dlstewart.com
Additional Information
Avery Dennison -- Brea, California 92821
Toll Free Phone # 1-800-462-8379
www.avery.com
Product Guarantee
“Avery Dennison is committed to providing you with quality products and will gladly replace any product which does not provide complete satisfaction.”
Please read my other reviews:
Sanford Twin-Tip Permanent Marker
Sanford Major Accent Highlighter
Elmer’s Rubber Cement
Avery Permanent Glue Stick
Tombow Correction Tape
Panasonic Portable Battery-Operated Pencil Sharpener
Stanley Contemporary Electric Pencil Sharpener
Xstamper VersaDater Pre-Inked “Received” Stamp with Date
Stanley Heavy-Duty Stapler for up to 120 Sheets
Good Cook Shake-a-Pick Toothpicks with Holder
Silicone Potholder / Trivits
InterDesign Over-the-Door Valet
Copyright 2004 Dawn L. Stewart
Recommended:
Yes
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