Introduction
Sharpies are an iconic marker that have become a staple in artwork and craft projects around the world. But who invented them? This article will explore the history and impact of Sharpies, from the invention of the first marker to the evolution of the product over time. We’ll also take a look at how Sharpies have changed the way artists create art and gain insight into the production process for these beloved markers.
Interview with the Inventor of Sharpies
The original inventor of Sharpies was Francis P. Felt, who worked as a research chemist at the Sanford Ink Company (now Newell Brands) in the 1950s. In an interview with The New York Times, Felt recalled, “I was looking for something that would write on almost anything—metal, glass, wood, plastic. I wanted something that wouldn’t fade or rub off.”
Felt’s idea was to create a permanent marker that used a quick-drying ink. After much trial and error, he finally came up with a formula that included xylene, a solvent that evaporates quickly, allowing the ink to dry and remain permanent. He named it the Sharpie Marker, after the sharp point of the felt tip.
In his interview, Felt discussed the impact the invention had on the industry: “It was the first marker that gave you a very fine line. It was something new, and people really took to it.” The Sharpie Marker quickly became a hit, and Felt went on to invent more products for the company, including the Magic Marker.
Historical Timeline of Sharpie Invention
The history of Sharpie invention dates back to the 1950s when Felt began working on the project. Here’s a timeline of key milestones in the development of Sharpies:
- 1951: Felt begins work on the project at Sanford Ink Company.
- 1953: The first Sharpie Marker is released.
- 1960: The original Sharpie is rebranded as the “Sharpie Fine Point Marker.”
- 1977: The Sharpie Ultra Fine Point Marker is introduced.
- 1985: The Sharpie Magnum Marker is released.
- 1989: The first retractable Sharpie is introduced.
- 1991: The first Sharpie pen is released.
- 1996: The Sharpie Clear View Highlighter is released.
- 2001: The Sharpie Gel Highlighter is released.
- 2013: The Sharpie Metallic Marker is released.
Comparison of Sharpie to Other Markers
Sharpies differ from other types of markers in several ways. Most notably, they use a quick-drying ink that is designed to be fade-resistant and waterproof. This makes them ideal for writing on non-porous surfaces such as glass, metal, and plastic.
Compared to other markers, Sharpies offer greater control and precision due to their fine-point tips. They also come in a variety of colors, from basic black and blue to metallic and neon shades. On the downside, Sharpies tend to bleed through paper more easily than other markers.
How Sharpies Have Evolved Over Time
Since their invention in 1953, Sharpies have undergone numerous design changes. Original Sharpies featured a short barrel and a fiber-tip that was prone to fraying. In 1960, the design was modified to include a longer barrel and a finer point.
Over the years, Sharpie has continued to make improvements to their products. They have added new colors, sizes, and tip shapes, as well as improved the quality and function of the markers. One of the most recent innovations is the Sharpie Extreme Marker, which features a water-resistant, fade-resistant ink that can withstand extreme temperatures.
Impact of Sharpies on the Art World
Sharpies have had a huge impact on the art world. Artists love them for their bold, vibrant colors and their ability to write on almost any surface. From canvases to walls, Sharpies can be used to create stunning works of art.
Some famous works of art made with Sharpies include the mural by artist Peter Tunney on the side of Miami’s Wynwood Walls, Keith Haring’s “Crack is Wack” mural in New York City, and Banksy’s stencil graffiti in London.
Behind the Scenes Look at Sharpie Production
To understand how Sharpies are made, we must first take a look at the materials and technology used in their production. Sharpies are made with a blend of pigments and dyes suspended in a liquid solvent. This mixture is then heated and poured into a mold to form the marker body.
The tips of the markers are made from felt and are attached to the marker body using heat and pressure. Once the markers are assembled, they are filled with ink and tested for quality assurance. Finally, the markers are packaged and shipped to retailers.
A Day in the Life of a Sharpie Inventor
As a Sharpie inventor, Felt faced many challenges. He had to develop a formula for a quick-drying ink that would adhere to all kinds of surfaces. He also had to find a way to make the markers durable yet easy to use. Despite the difficulties, Felt found the process rewarding: “It was a great feeling to see my ideas come to life.”
Today, Sharpie inventors continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. They are constantly experimenting with new colors, tips, and materials to improve the performance of the markers. It’s a never-ending quest to make the perfect marker.
Conclusion
The invention of Sharpies in the 1950s revolutionized the way artists create art. From a historical perspective to a behind-the-scenes look at production, this article has explored the story behind who invented Sharpies and the impact they have had on the art world. With its bold colors and versatile tips, the Sharpie Marker continues to be a favorite among artists and crafters alike.
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