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When Faber-Castell drops a new marker, I, of course, have to give it a go. And these new Goldfaber Sketch markers did not disappoint!
They took a little getting used to, but once I started using them to blend, I was hooked! I used some scrap wood, a traceable template from the Happy Lettering Club, and some light pink acrylic paint to test them out during a live project.
How did they stack up? Let’s find out in this Faber-Castell marker review!
Psssst…If you want to try out these markers, use code Canvassigndesigns at checkout (www.fabercastel.com) to get 10% off!
My Honest Thoughts on the Goldfaber Sketch Marker
I spent a lot of time in the video reviewing my new Faber-Castell marker, so let’s talk about expectations versus first impressions.
My initial thought was that these new Sketch markers might perform similarly to regular Sharpies. I typically avoid using regular Sharpies on signs because the black often turns a purpley color, and they can run through the wood grain.
I wasn’t sure how alcohol-based markers would handle the wood surface, though. But I was pretty excited to try it out because of the main features:
- Dual-tip brush
- Available in 59 colors
- Permanent when dry
- Comes with a colorless blender
I LOVE all my Faber-Castell Markers, so I knew this one had to be good — if not for door hangers and wood signs, with another craft project for sure!
Faber-Castell Marker Review: Testing on Wood
I decided to test these markers on painted wood blocks, which were made from scrap wood from our house build. After preparing the blocks with paint and transferring a design using graphite paper, I did a quick test on a scrap piece of wood first.
I was honestly surprised and impressed by how it turned out! Unlike what I expected from typical alcohol markers on wood grain, these markers soaked up the color way better than the Tombow Dual Brush Pens I’ve used on wood. They also seemed to handle the graphite lines well, blending them in nicely so the tracing lines weren’t visible underneath the marker.
I also noticed:
- Pigmentation: The colors had nice pigmentation and required only one coat.
- Blending: These markers blend beautifully! I was barely running over the surface, and the blender worked SO GOOD at bringing it all together. It gave me a look that you just can’t get with acrylic paint pens.
- Layering: They layer well, allowing for effects like adding polka dots or blending colors on top of each other.
- Dual Brush Tip: The dual brush tip is great. The pointy fine tip allows for super fine lines and slightly thicker lines. The tips seem much better than those on the Tombow Dual Brush Pens, which are longer and narrower.
- Graphite: They handle graphite lines well, mixing them in so they aren’t visible underneath.
Faber-Castell Marker Review: Performance on Paper
When testing the Goldfaber Sketch markers on the sketchbook paper, the ink did show through. This is typical for alcohol-based inks, but for me, I don;t like seeing the ink through the paper.
However, because they’re alcohol-based markers, they dry quicker and are easier to blend than water-based markers.
Faber-Castell Marker Review: Price and Availability
Alcohol markers tend to be on the pricier side, and the Faber-Castell Goldfaber Sketch markers are no exception — the 24-pack is listed at $79 on their website. Interestingly, someone noted during the live video (where I reviewed these) that they were $102 on Amazon, making the manufacturer’s website cheaper.
But I will say, if you’re someone who prefers hand lettering for door hangers versus on paper…this price is TOTALLY worth it. I think these may be some of the best pens I’ve ever used on wood.
Final Thoughts on the Goldfaber Sketch Marker
I was genuinely more impressed with the Faber-Castell Goldfaber Sketch markers than I thought. I LOVE this brand, but again, I wasn’t sure how an alcohol-based pen might work. But I was pleasantly surprised, and if anything, this just solidified my love for Faber-Castell!
They performed very well, dried quickly, blended beautifully, and had good pigmentation compared to other markers I’ve used on wood. While they are a bit pricier, they’re high quality (and if anything like their other products, will last a while, too).
If you’re interested in trying these markers out, use my code Canvassigndesigns at checkout (www.fabercastel.com) for 10% off your entire order.
Learn New Ways to Use Your Faber-Castell Marker Inside the Happy Lettering Club!
Put your new favorite marker to good use inside the Happy Lettering Club! Get traceable lettering templates, product recommendations, and live tutorials when you join. You’ll have plenty of ways to practice your hand lettering skills inside!
