WHAT ARE DRY ERASE MARKERS?

Dry-erase markers are everywhere—conference rooms, classrooms, and sometimes on the living room floor after a toddler decorates your wall. They help us brainstorm at the speed of writing and erase just as fast. We stack expo markers into impromptu swords when we get bored in class. What can’t they do?

But first, how do they work? When you write, the solvent quickly evaporates, leaving behind a thin film of pigment that adheres lightly, allowing for visible marks. The pigments don’t permanently bond with the surface, so that they can be easily wiped away. Dry-erase markers erase best on nonporous surfaces because porous materials, like paper or wood, absorb the ink.

And there are many types, probably more than you care to know. Wet-erase markers use water-soluble ink that requires a damp cloth to erase—great for making semi-permanent marks that won’t be accidentally wiped away. Liquid chalk markers provide a chalk-like finish and are available in diverse colors. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, eco-friendly option, refillable markers can be replenished over and over to your heart’s delight.

Dry-erase markers can be traced back to the early 1970s when American inventor Dr. Sidney Rosenthal created a glass tube filled with ink with a wool felt wick that could write on any surface. He called it the “Magic Marker.” The first commercially successful dry-erase markers were introduced by Expo in 1975 and quickly gained popularity in schools and offices. The markers were designed with a felt tip and a wide range of expressive colors. Over the years, innovations in marker technology led to new formulations, including low-odor and non-toxic options, catering to modern users.

And they’ve only gained popularity. The global dry-erase marker market was valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow around 5% from 2021 to 2026. It is yet another invention that started decades ago and has never stopped growing in demand. How are dry-erase markers getting more popular? Color us curious—we’re nerds about this stuff, after all.

If you’re wondering which dry-erase marker works best for your board, we’d love to assist you. It’s surprising how much thought goes into choosing the right one. We enjoy discussing the finer points in life and are here to help you discover the best solutions our industry offers. If you’d like to meet for a brainstorm, let us know—we’ll bring the markers.