How to Get Permanent Marker to Stay on Fabric

If there's permanent marker or Sharpie on fabric, whether it's an autograph or your own creation, it will inevitably fade over time through wear and washings. However, there are some tricks you can use to make the marker design last longer. Here's how to make permanent marker ink or Sharpie on fabric stay bold and bright in four simple steps.

How to Get Permanent Marker to Stay on Fabric

When using permanent markers on fabric, opt for a 100 percent natural fiber fabric, such as cotton or linen, which will absorb the ink better than synthetic fibers, such as polyester.

Protect your marker design on the fabric from additional moisture, such as rain and sweat, until you can take steps to preserve it. Aim to preserve it as soon as possible after you create your design. Here's how:

1. Allow the ink to dry completely on the fabric.
2. Get out your ironing board, and heat your iron to the highest temperature acceptable for the fabric type.
3. Place a clean white cotton cloth over the marker design.
4. Using a dry iron (no steam), iron the spot for at least one minute and up to five. Don't rub the spot, which can smear the ink. Instead, alternate between applying firm pressure and lifting the iron to prevent scorching.

Dryer Method

An alternate method to using an iron is to toss the marked fabric into the dryer. Set the cycle to the highest temperature recommended for the fabric, and tumble for at least 15 minutes. This will help to set the ink into the fabric fibers. However, the ironing method does this in a more targeted manner.

When to Wash

It is also best to avoid washing the fabric unless you really need to. For washing, turn the fabric inside out if possible, so the marked portion is on the inside. Use only cold water and gentle detergent; the fabric can be dried in the dryer or hung to air dry. Note that hats should be spot-cleaned or hand-washed.

Fabric Display and Storage Tips

If you've chosen to frame your fabric design or put it in a display box, keep it out of direct sunlight. Even lamps and overhead lights can cause ink to fade. Display or store the piece in a room with consistent humidity and temperature.

For storage, use archival tissue paper to wrap the fabric. The tissue must be both acid-free and lignin-free (a chemical compound derived from wood). It is also important to use the right type of storage container to prevent yellowing. One choice is an archival storage box made of acid-free paper. However, if you are concerned about the box getting crushed, purchase a plastic storage container made of cast polypropylene to store your keepsakes.