Anyone can use chalk for creative projects, from creating attention-grabbing business signs to sidewalk art to glass art—the possibilities are endless when you are innovative!

Chalk has a long history starting way back in 1438. However, the magnificent chalk marker was invented 500 years later in 1944. Since then, liquid chalk markers have come in several varieties, and artists use them on multiple surfaces. 

Chalk Ink’s liquid chalk markers are perfect for writing and drawing on all surfaces, including glass. Whether you are looking for your next art project or a way to spruce up your office, here is how to use chalk markers on glass surfaces. 

How To Draw on Glass Surfaces Using Chalk Markers

Before creating your outstanding artwork, you want to ensure that your surface is spotless. Clean your glass surface with your favorite glass cleaner or warm, soapy water to remove any dust or stickiness. After cleaning your surface, make sure that the glass is completely dry before beginning to draw. 

Once the glass is dry, it is almost time to draw! Before you start drawing, you must first activate your chalk markers. Activating your markers is super easy! All you need to do is:

1. Hold the marker diagonally with the cap on and shake for about 30 seconds.
2. Remove the cap.
3. On a flat surface, press the tip in and release. Keep doing this until the tip is full of ink. You might have to try this a couple of times, so be patient!
4. Get a piece of scrap paper and evaluate the markers a couple of times before beginning to draw.
5. Start drawing!

Essential Tip: You do not want to use too much pressure when activating your markers because the tip will deform. 

As stated before, the possibilities are endless when working with liquid chalk markers. You can draw freehand or place a stencil under the glass and trace the artwork. Use our semi-permanent chalk markers on wine glasses, shadow boxes, storefront windows, classroom windows, and more! Using a chalk marker is like using a typical marker, except it is more prone to smudging, so be mindful when creating your artwork!

Tips for Using Chalk Markers

When you're designing your artwork, you should consider a few things. Here are tips to remember when you are using chalk markers:

• You can create a combined effect with the markers by adding water to the chalk ink. This dilutes the color, which helps you blend two or more colors. 
• Chalk ink takes a few seconds to dry, so you can erase mistakes with a damp cloth.
• Each pigment reacts differently to different surfaces. Be sure to do a spot test before drawing. 
• When coloring a larger section, take your time to get even coverage and prevent streaks.
• If you have not used your markers in a while, you might have to re-activate them.
• You can mix two colors in a glass or ceramic dish and dip a dry marker tip into the mixture to create new colors.
• When storing chalk markers, make sure they are upright with the cap on tightly.

Best Way To Seal Chalk Marker

If you're not using semi-permanent chalk markers, chalk markers tend to run or smear over time. However, there are ways to seal your artwork to ensure longevity. You can apply three coats of sealer over the chalk ink art or use the following three methods:

• To make your design permanent on a non-porous surface (chalkboard, glass, plastic, metal, or wood), carefully spray a thin, even coat of hairspray on your artwork. Make sure to spray 10 inches away from your design.
• Although liquid chalk pens are resistant to water and rain, you can double down on your design by making it waterproof. Use a clear acrylic spray for a glossy finish or a matte acrylic spray for a muted look.
• Another way to seal your artwork is by using any water or oil-based polyurethane for a clear coat. This material is durable, waterproof, and inexpensive.

After you have finished your art piece, you can use a fixative spray to ensure your work stays in place and doesn’t smudge. Hairspray will also work if you cannot make it to the store. Be sure to do this when you are done with your artwork because it is challenging to add more chalk ink once it has dried. 

How To Clean Chalk Marker off Surfaces

When the life of your masterpiece has ended, you must do the due diligence of erasing your artwork and creating a spotless surface for your next project. Sometimes, the pigment from the ink can get absorbed and cause a shadow to be left behind when cleaning it off.

To ensure a transparent surface, you can do one of the following tricks:

• If a simple wet paper towel is not working, create a mixture of water and vinegar in a spray bottle to clean your surface.
• Use a magic eraser to clean your surface. Magic erasers can help get rid of stubborn ink. These erasers are multipurpose and are safe to use on glass.
• If you have trouble erasing intricate details, you can use a damp Q-tip to erase small streaks or corners.
• Use a baby wipe to erase smaller mirrors or small art pieces.
• Soak the area for about five minutes before wiping off the ink. 
• Use your favorite window cleaner to remove the liquid chalk if the marker is not budging.

To prevent future issues and keep your glass ghost-free, you should always perform a spot test before drawing. 

Learning how to use chalk markers on glass surfaces is not hard at all! Follow our essential tips, and you will fall in love with the endless ways to create beautiful chalk art. 

Our semi-permanent chalk markers are genuinely one of a kind. We have water-resistant and vibrant liquid markers at Chalk Ink to create a lasting image. Plus, our markers are easily erasable with an ammonia-based cleaner.