How to Choose the Best Silver Marker for Your Autographs
The carpenter has his hammer. The plumber has his wrench. The grapher has his blue Sharpie.
But sometimes your photo has a dark background. Or your bat is black. Or you have a football. Then, what do you pull out of your toolbox?
If you want your dark item signed in silver—and most often you will—you have a number of choices. Marker? Paint pen? Which brand? These questions continue to confound collectors old and new. Based on trial and error (LOTS of error), I’ve developed this guide to help you choose the right silver pen or marker for your item every time.
GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment and let us know which silver(s) you use and be entered to win one of five packs of Infinity Metallic Permanent Markers. I’ll pick the winners randomly on Friday, July 20 at 10pm ET.
Update: The winners have been notified. Thanks for participating!
THE PLAYERS
Write Dudes Infinity Metallic Permanent Marker (See an example.)
Formerly known as SRX ColorSharp, this silver marker offers the boldness of a paint pen without the prep work and maintenance. It’s the most versatile silver in my bag as well as the most frequently used. Store a new marker upside down for 24 hours before uncapping and keep it inverted between uses for best results. I’ve had some issues with the marker drying out in cold weather.
DecoColor Liquid Silver Opaque Paint Marker (See an example.)
Ubiquitously referred to as a “Deco paint pen” (upon close inspection for this guide I was surprised to see “marker” on the label), its preference among collectors for premium hard surfaced items is similarly universal. Using this pen can result in some beautiful autographs. Conversely, a dry or leaky pen can ruin an item. You’ll see in person graphers constantly testing their Decos on folders and scraps of paper for this very reason. As I alluded to in the Infinity description, these pens require some prep work to saturate the tip with paint—there’s no unwrapping a Deco and putting it to work immediately. Like the Infinity it does not perform well when the temperature drops. I really like that the paint pen comes in a number of widths— Broad, Fine, Extra Fine—to give you more control over the appearance of your autograph. Unfortunately, Decos seem to be getting harder to find in retail stores.
Prismacolor Premier Metallic Silver (See an example.)
Deco loyalists may scoff at the suggestion, but I’ve experienced comparable results with this easier-to-find paint pen. Everything described above applies here except that Prismacolor doesn’t offer an Extra Fine width (incidentally, it’s probably the size you’d use least).
Sharpie Metallic Silver (See an example.)
Inexplicably the silver just doesn’t perform to the level of its blue brother and I rarely see it out in the field. That said, it dries quickly and doesn’t bleed so it’s a viable option for felt jersey numbers and low gloss paper items like CD booklets.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following recommendations are based on my own experience and feedback from fellow collectors.
| Item | Marker of Choice |
| Basketball | DecoColor (Broad Point) |
| Football | DecoColor (Broad Point) |
| Hockey puck | DecoColor (Fine Point) |
| Jersey number | DecoColor (Fine Point) |
| Photo/Flat | Infinity |
| Baseball bat | Infinity |
| Helmet (mini or full size) | Infinity |
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Which silver markers/paint pens are your favorites and on which items do you use them?
I have a Tom Seaver Mitchell & Ness jersey that I’d like him to sign/inscribe on the back felt numerals. Would Deco fine point in silver or white work? I know felt numbers are tricky….
Thanks.
Great question. I’ve never personally had one signed but collectors seem to either use a very fine silver Deco or a big Sharpie autograph on the jersey itself. There’s risk with the paint pen because it has to be signed slowly and the jersey needs to be pulled tight so the surface is as hard and flat as possible. It’s really up to your personal preference and level of risk you’re willing to take on a mail in.
As for any spray, I can’t recommend it because I have no experience, but one collector has said he used the following spray on the numbers before getting it signed. Maybe a starting point to do more research.
http://www.scrap-masters.com/preserveit-digital-photo-and-scrapbooks-paper-prot-p-11203.html
It was kinda funny I came across this chat site by accident. I was actually online looking for the DecoColor metallic paint pens when I saw ur site. Very good read and very informative.
Brief history, I’ve been graphing for some 20 odd yrs doings sports, comic/toy cons and just the past couple years movie celebs. And I’m just fascinated at the evolutions of the autograph utensils thru the yrs from black sharpies to then blue (some ppl will not sign with blue for eBay reasons…crap excuse if u ask me!), then to the various paint pens/markers, etc…
My preference? I swear the DecoColor metallic paint markers are the best thing ever created for us graphers! Such bold, shiny appearance on footballs, basketballs, jerseys and photos, well pretty much anything imaginable and is second to none!! But then for some strange reason…decos were no longer available (my conspiracy theory is that Sharpie wanted to hawk their pens without competition!). And I tell u…sharpie paint pens sux! But that’s just my opinion. Anytime u have to store a pen upside is ridiculous-and it doesn’t always perform when u need it to! Frustrated in not being able to obtain decos any longer, I resorted to using PenTouch gold and silver. They work really well, BUT these seem to lack the same pop as provided by decos. But it was passable. And then I came across the Infinity markers (found @ Kmart in 8 pack for 7.99) and the gold and silver works very nicely on dark photos. But as with Pen Touch it lacks the same shine as decos. But the plus side is it dries so much quicker then metallic paint pens but I will include these pens in my arsenal until the nxt best thing is discovered!
So, very long story short…experiment and draw ur own conclusions. If u worked hard to obtain that graph u should be happy with how it looks right?!?! With that, I wish u all the best graphing experience.
What would be the second best option for an authentic jersey (on the numbers) in terms of durability and overall look?
Not sure about the durability on this- haven’t tried it myself- but I have seen a lot of people use a black sharpie on numbers. There are a few people in Atlanta that almost always use black sharpies for Braves and Falcons numbers (red) and for white numbers. As Matt mentioned in his article, the silver sharpie can sometimes be useful (but I’d avoid it if possible). They have come out with one that has 3 groves on each side of the cap (best way to describe it) that my friend says works for 1-2 uses pretty well. But I would definitely test it before going the route. For something authentic, I’d stick with the Deco and not risk any other option not turning out like you’d like, but that’s my opinion.
Great tips, thanks Maggie. I appreciate your sharing the insight with us. I too have seen black Sharpie work well on numbers. While it may not offer the most bold graph, it’s a safe choice and you know what you’re getting.
Hi Austin, I’d say a high-quality “official” replica or batting practice jersey that are sold online/in retail stores are the best alternatives. Just stay away from the knockoffs you can get online with the shiny numbers.
Does the Infinity work well on glossy photos? I have struggled to find a reliable silver pen for glossy photos. Right now I exclusively use Deco’s on photo’s, pucks etc.
Hi Curtis, I’ve had good success with the Infinity on photos. That said, if you have time to let it dry a Deco will give you the boldest signature.
I have a 1980’s black and white glossy photo and have plenty of time in regards to allowing it to dry… It’s an original photo and hence cannot be reprinted and for this reason I want to be cautious to choose the correct pen. Would you choose Infinity or the Deco and how would you properly prep the pen for signature? Thanks for all your help and great post!
Hi Gabe, if you can have it signed on a light section of the photo I’d go with a blue Sharpie – it’s foolproof. If it’s on the dark part I’d go with a thin Deco. Store it upside down and make sure you do several test scribbles immediately before you use it to ensure the paint is flowing correctly.
Matt
I have a white helmet that I plan on getting signed, which type of black marker do you suggest getting?
Going to a signing and want to have a hockey glove signed it is a a fabric glove, what is your recommendation
Hi Greg, a rougher fabric – like the old felt baseball jerseys – is tough to call because you need something with enough ink flow to show up on the material while running the risk of a paint pen bleeding. If there isn’t too much grain in the fabric you may be able to get away with a Sharpie that has been broken in well.
Let me know how it turns out.
Matt
Hi Matt,
A few questions: When you advise to store the Deco marker “upside down,” are saying that the tip should be pointed up or down? Also, is this storage advice for when the marker is put away and will be out of use for awhile, or do you mean this is the way to store it the night before you are going to a signing, etc.?
For clarification purpose, is the medium/fine point deco paint marker truly the best way to go when getting a dark jersey number signed, as opposed to the broad tip paint marker?
Lastly, have you seen the replica pro wrestling championship belts? If so, would you recommend a fine tip paint marker on the strap or a broad tip paint marker? There isn’t a lot of room on the black strap part, with all the button snaps, plates, etc.
Hi Craig, these are great questions.
– Tip down
– I store mine inverted and haven’t had a problem. Whether your marker has been out of commission a day or a month, always best to test it thoroughly ahead of using it (and don’t wait until you’re out in the field with no other options). Always bring a backup.
– Fine point or broad, it’s subjective. My recommendation is that if you are getting a player who has a lot of strokes in his graph (think Mariano Rivera) then go with fine – you’re less likely to get one blob. For an abbreviated graph like Shaq or Kyrie Irving, go with broad.
– I’d have to see the belt and signing area to make a better recommendation. Again, depends on who (and how many) you have sign it.
Hope this helps.
Matt
Hi Matt
Whats the best marker for autograph on jersey? But not on a number. What do u think?
Hey Tommy, great question. I’d stick with Sharpie.
Matt
Sorry for asking so many questions, but I started my collection recently…
On blue NY Giants jersey which colour should I use? Silver or black? Which one would me more visible and look better?
Hey Tommy,
Are you going to get the jersey itself signed or the numerals? It’s more common to have a number signed and I’d go with black in that case. If you wanted to get the fabric signed, stick with silver.
Matt
I’m getting a Full size Denver Broncos Revolution NFL Helmet signed.
Do the Write Dudes Infinity Metallic Permanent Marker come in different thicknesses? And what thickness would you use for a one player signed helmet?
If a player has a nice autograph and you know he does use a thinner marker so you can read the autograph if it is like a symbol or lines for the autograph like shaq I would use a thicker marker!
I also noticed that the Write Dudes Infinity only seem to come in a 8 pack. And all are FINE tip.
Is a fine tip Write Dudes Infinity pen going to sign nice on a full size helmet?
As far as I know they are sold only in 8-packs in one thickness. My advice on a full size helmet is to go with a broad-tipped DecoColor paint marker if you’re only getting one (or a few) signatures. I may go with a thinner tip for a team signed helmet.
Matt
Hello – I have a dark green hard plastic stadium seat that I will have signed. What pen do you recommend? Thank you for the tips.
I think a silver Deco would look great. Just be sure to give it a while to dry.
Matt
Thank you. I’ll be getting a signatures and I’m concerned about dry time. You think silver Sharpie ok?
I think it’s risky on plastic.
Ok, thanks again. Silver Deco it is.
Is a black Sharpie ok to use for a jersey? I want to make sure it won’t bleed.
It’s a pretty reliable option on a jersey number, bigger issue is possible fading at some point.
Hey Matt,
I’m getting a black guitar signed. I’ve seen some for sale that have been signed with a cool bright blue, pink or silver signature. I can’t figure out what color and marker type to go with for the shiny guitar surface. Hopefully something that will pop!
Your thoughts?
Thanks,
I appreciate your helpful website!
What is the best marker to use on a canvas print?
Hey Dave, if it’s a light background I’d use a blue Sharpie otherwise I’d suggest a silver Deco. Personally, I’ve never had a canvas signed but I’m basing this on what I’ve seen in person. Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
What is the best marker to use on a glossy photo that is mainly dark?
I’d use a silver Deco or an Infinity marker.
Matt
I will be getting a Mini Eagles helmet and a rookie football card signed.
I’m not worried about the helmet although the markers they are using are silver sharpies (hope it works on the helmet). The card is in a soft and hard sleeve, how long should i wait after the signing before putting the card back in the sleeve? If i do it right away it will smudge correct?
Thanks
Craig
I’d give it a few minutes and make sure to prep it with baby powder to take off the top layer of gloss so it doesn’t bubble. You may want to bring a silver Deco for the helmet.
Matt
I’m wondering what kind of pen you would use on an all leather baseball glove? I figure that the oil treatment of the glove as well as friction wear, and age of the leather would present some variables that you don’t find in other items.
Hi Andrew, great question. As you say, a glove certainly presents a greater challenge than your standard items. I asked the guys over at 3 Monkey Sports (http://www.3monkeysports.com) and they recommend a silver Deco on a dark glove or black Sharpie on a light one. Let me know what you decide to use and how it turns out.
Matt
Thanks, Matt.
For a bit of context when I do get around to having it signed, the item is a 1970s rawlings HOH model glove. It’s a tan coloured leather in great shape with no cracking or scuffing from excessive use. It doesn’t appear to be oiled but does have the unmistakable scent of shaving cream. I’m going to stick to black sharpie unless told otherwise and I will be sure to send pictures if it helps everyone else in the community.
Hi Andrew – gloves are tough and I’d love to get your feedback on how it comes out. Thanks for offering! A lot of us would be interested.
Matt
Great advice, thanks!
Three questions: 1) for a blue felt jersey number, would you use a silver DecoColor fine point or a silver metallic Sharpie? And would you ScotchGard the number first? 2) I’m having trouble getting good autographs on NBA game balls with the DecoColor broad point because of the pebbles on the ball. Any advice? I’ve prepped and shaken and depressed the point, etc. Is it simply a matter of them pressing hard and writing slowly?
Thank you!
Hi Jeff, great questions. Felt is tough – as you may know, the risk of bleeding is higher. Normally I’d go with a paint pen on a jersey number but with this materials I’d probably go with a new silver Sharpie. As for ScotchGard, it’s hard for me to recommend spraying anything you’re getting autographed. I don’t have firsthand experience with this technique. Perhaps another reader can share their results.
It seems like you’re prepping the Deco properly – do you test it on paper immediately before and get a good flow? I have had mixed results on basketballs, though I’ve found the Spalding NBA Zi/O EXCEL have a finer grain and produce a more bold signature. Which model are you using? Also, if you’re getting the autographs outside in cold weather you may experience more streaking.
First fantastic site; thank you for having it. Sorry to bother on this as this isn’t an autograph question on the level of seriousness as the others. I’m a parent of a player on a 4th grade girls basketball team and wanted to give the coaches mini-basketballs signed by the girls as a thank you. Keeping in mind throughout these questions it will be 4th graders signing. So is the Deco Paint pen the way to go? What size point, broad, fine, extra-fine? Which color is best for a basketball, black or silver? Sorry again for for the more amateur question.
Hi Tim, thanks for the question – it’s not a bad one at all. Since this is a multi-signature item and a number of people will be handling it, I’d go with a broad black Sharpie – especially considering this is more of a memento than an investment piece. It will work on both a white panel mini as well as a more typical replica if that’s what you have.
If I was getting a basketball signed for my collection I would go with a silver Deco but there is a lot of room for error on a multi-signed item. (Not to mention all of these signers would have never used a Deco before.)
Matt
Thanks for the guidance Raymond. Yes, I was concerned about potential smearing and such from a paint pen given the age group of the signers. Again, the information you host and share here is fantastic.
Sorry to bother again. I just looked through my Sharpies. Is the “broad” Sharpie you recommend a chisel point Sharpie?
Yeah – I’d use that if you have a replica mini (i.e., you’ll be signing over the dimples of the ball). For a white panel, a fine point would be well… fine 🙂
Yep replica mini with dimples. Fantastic, thanks again!
Hello. I have began collecting authentic hockey jerseys and use black sharpies on white numbers and silver sharpies on dark blue and black numbers. The silver on the darker numbers is hard to see sometimes. Is there anything out there I could use on the dark colored numbers that would be more visible? Thank you.
Silver Deco!
what is good for a swingman kevin love jersey?
best sharpie or paint marker for kevin love swingman jersey
If it’s a dark number I’d go with a silver Deco. If it’s a white number, I suggest a black Sharpie.
Matt
Matt,
Do you have any experience with NBA hardwood floor panels? I have a certified piece of the Dallas Mavericks championship season floor. It is from the baseline so the entire piece is solid dark blue. Will be getting Dirk’s autograph at a meet and greet soon. A silver infinity pen or something else? Thanks.
I have a bunch of floor panels signed but they are the blonde parquet flooring signed in blue Sharpie (and nothing official, Home Depot used to sell great panels for graphs). For your dark panel I’d recommend a silver DecoColor. I think the Infinity would come out ok but I think paint is the way to go – give it plenty of time to dry.
Matt
I’m getting Stan Lee to sign a 16×20 matte finish photo at a signing. The photo is very dark in the area that I want him to sign and gold or red are the colors that I feel would go best with the image. My 1st question is which color do you think would stand out better? In your recommendations you list the Infinity as your pen of choice for photos but would that recommendation be different since I’m getting my item signed in a controlled setting? I only ask because it seems like you recommend the DecoColor pen for almost everything. Sorry for the novel and thank you for your time and this great post!
Hi Ben, I think you can’t go wrong with a Deco at a sit-down signing. If you want to get creative with gold or red I leave that to you (and I encourage you to try something different – I think it could be cool, though we see a lot more gold than red). I also have a lot of confidence in the Infinity but it’s not going to give you the bold, bright signature that a Deco would.
Matt
Hey Matt, thanks for all of your help. I’ll go with the Deco but I’ll bring the Infinity as a backup. Below is a link of the image that I’m getting signed. Please let me know if you have any suggestions. I’m planning on having it signed in the lower right and framed/matted so that all text is covered by the matting.
http://artinsights.com/production/spider-man-2002/
That’s going to be an awesome piece!
So I have a hockey stick and want to get the blade signed by my favorite player the blade is black it’s a Easton s13 never been used not wooden it’s composite. Any suggestions what I should use?
Hey Aaron, I’d go with a silver Deco and give it plenty of time to dry. Let us know how it works out.
Matt
I have read that a lot of people use Deco paint pens for football helmets. I have also read that some people don’t use Deco paint pens on the helmets because the paint can chip once dried. From reading yours and other posts I have ruled out the sharpie. I see you recommend a permanent marker like the Infinity for helmets. What would your best recommendation be for a full sized blue official NFL single autograph helmet be? Deco paint pen…or infinity marker? Thank you!
Hi Kristen – just for clarification, I wouldn’t hesitate to use a blue Sharpie on a football helmet. On a blue helmet I’d go with a silver Deco – it’ll look great. If you’re concerned about chipping – and I haven’t encountered this personally – you’ll still get a nice signature with the Infinity.
Let us know what you decide and how it turns out.
Matt
Does anyone know where to buy the Write Dudes Infinity Silver/Gold 2pk? I can only find the 8pk and it seems like a waste since I’m only interested in silver/gold. The Write Dudes website is no help. Not only do they not sell their own product but they don’t tell you who does either. Thanks!
Hi Ben – I’d be interested in a 2-pack as well but I haven’t seen them for sale. I sent them a note on Twitter (https://twitter.com/thewritedudes) and I’ll post an update if I hear back.
Matt
Attending a Nolan Ryan autograph session in 2 weeks. What about a blue jersey number? I would guess either the Deco Color Fine Point (Silver) or the Infinity Silver just from reading your blog. What do you think sir? Thanks for all of this great free info! Much appreciated!
Hi Joshua, thanks for checking out the site. I’d definitely go with the Deco – just make sure that thing is prepped and the paint is flowing before you hand it to Nolan. Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
So cool of you to respond Matt! I actually just got off the phone with the event coordinator of the book signing and she informed me that he will be signing jerseys. I made sure to pass on this great free knowledge of pens/markers with her that you are so graciously providing. I have uncapped the Deco after storing it for 24 hours. It is prepped for use now however the signing is not for another week. Should I store it inverted right side up for a day and upside down a day and alternate until the actual event? Thanks again man!
Hi Josh,
I’d keep it stored upside down until you need to use it, then several minutes before the signing start testing it (and test right up until it’s used). Doesn’t hurt to check on it every couple days to make sure the paint doesn’t pool or leak. Also, make sure you bring a backup in case there is a paint pen catastrophe while you’re testing in line.
Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
Hi! Got a Cliff Lee autograph on my jersey number today using the Deco Silver Paint Pen. Eventually going to frame it for my wall, am going to try to avoid sun exposure but I’m sure at some point it will see some sun.
Do you recommend any kind of heat setting? If so, what is the best way to do it? How much do paint pen signatures fade?
Thanks!
Hi Taylor,
Cool item. I’m never given temperature itself much thought, although moisture/humidity is certainly something to monitor. Avoiding extremes would certainly be favorable (with heat being more of a concern for me than cold). If it’s comfortable for you, it will be comfortable for your autograph. As for paint pens fading, I don’t have any horror stories to share with you but most any signature will be affected by sunlight so keep it indirect and at a minimum.
Matt
Hi Matt, I’ve gotten lots of good tips reading this post and all of the comments. I’m getting ready to send out a 1964 Yankees yearbook for some ‘graphs. The book has a mostly navy blue background. I think silver would look great, I’m just wondering what pen would work the best. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks
Hi Paul, I think one of the Infinity markers would look great. Steiner was recently doing a signing and was using silver Sharpies but I still can’t bring myself to recommend them – they seem to only work brand new. I think a paint pen is too risky on that type of multi-signed item and you really don’t need paint on that surface.
Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
Matt — I’m getting a jersey signed which has a camo style number (auto will be on the number). I don’t think silver will work as camo has a lot of silver in it. Thinking black. My question is will an oil based sharpie paint pen work well? Wasn’t sure if I should get the water based or oil based. Since the deco pens seem to be oil based I figured did be ok. What do you think? And have you tried the sharpie paint pens? Thanks for any advice.
Hey Larry, thanks for the question. I’d probably go with a black Deco to get a bolder signature. I think your gut is right about the silver on camo. I haven’t tried the Sharpie paint pens but I also haven’t heard anyone saying anything positive about them. Deco is pretty much the standard. Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
i getting a Derrick Rose away jersey signed, the jersey is red and the jersey number is black,i see Derrick likes signing on the black jersey number. Im thinking of using a DecoColor (Sliver) but i’m curious how long it will dry?
Very cool opportunity! Give it a few minutes once it signed. Personally, I always allow much more time I think I need just to be safe.
Matt
What’s the deco paint pen fine or broad for a full size batting helmet?
I’d typically go broad but it depends on the signature. If you have someone like Mariano that is every letter you may want a finer point.
What about derek jeter
If you could please respond as soon as you get a chance I’m about to go to a yankees game
He has a pretty crowded signature – either would be fine. I’d probably go with broad. Good luck!
I tried all your recommendations and none of them worked out for me. I was especially disappointed with Deco. So I continued my search and stumbled on to a Upper Deck video showing an athlete signing and looked at what they were using for photos. It was a Uni Paint medium line PX-20 paint marker. I ended up ordering one and it’s by far and away the best looking. Nice and bold, consistent mark, and with minimal prep. I highly suggest you check it out.
Thanks for the tip!
Hi i was wondering is the deco color would work on 8X10 Thanks
I’ve used them successfully on 8x10s, just give it a few minutes to dry.
Hello! I’m having an official NBA basketball signed by a player. However, it will be delivered by my 11 year old who is attending this player’s camp and will be able to have it signed while he’s there. I’m worried that my 11 yr. old may not be able to properly prep a Deco paint pen. Will a Silver Sharpie suffice?
Al, check out a Uni Paint medium line PX-20 paint marker. Prep it once when you first buy it and your son will just have to pull the cap off when he goes to use it.
No, you really need a paint pen for silver. The next best alternative would be a super-sized black Sharpie, in my opinion. http://www.amazon.com/Sharpie-33001-Permanent-Marker-12-Pack/dp/B002764UJW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406247666&sr=8-1&keywords=super+sharpie&dpPl=1
Hi there,
So, most of these questions are about Jerseys and Helmets and such. I’m about to go to a Convention to get a BIG stack of comic books signed which are printed on all kinds of different paper. I have already stocked up on Gel and Ballpoint pens for the books that are printed on the really thin paper (since pens usually don’t bleed through). However, I’m still looking for metallic markers for the thicker, more colorful, and often glossy covers of the other books. It seems like the Infinity is the best choice, but i’m reluctant to buy it because I have read reviews that say it dries out super quick. The people at these conventions use sharpie as if it was the only marker in the world and I don’t want my marker to dry up and then just have them use their sharpie.
To get to the point, does the infinity dry up quickly even when it isn’t exposed to extreme temperatures?
Extra Detail on what I need:
-Needs to dry (relatively) quick. Sometimes it’s like an assembly line with only a few seconds before I have to move along and stack the books on top of each other.
– Bright/Bold colors. Silver Sharpies are so terrible, I’ve got silver on black and it’s practically invisible unless you look at an angle.
-Medium tip. Too thick and it ruins the art, too thin and it gets lost.
I appreciate any feedback.
The silver marker that dries quickly but keeps flowing is the holy grail. The Infinity is the best I’ve used, but admittedly I haven’t had a stack of things signed. My suggestion is to grab a couple knowing you have only have a few signatures in them before you need to rotate. And before you go, maybe it’s worth sacrificing one and seeing how many signatures you can get through on an old comic book you can afford to trash. Let us know what you decide and how it works out.
Matt
Just ordered a pack of Infinitys. I’ll give ’em a try and will report back soon.
Awesome – thanks!
What color and kind of pen would you recommend for a glossy photo that is black and white. Thanks
Hi Terry, it really depends on the available white space. If you’re confident it will be signed in the light area you could go with blue Sharpie. If it has a very dark background/signing area if stick with an Infinity or Deco silver.
Matt
I’m going to a convention and I’m wanting to get my black snapback signed. The signers at the convention though are pretty much used to signing in exclusively sharpie, so I’m worried my hat may be ruined if one of them doesn’t know how to use a paint pen? Thoughts?
Always a risk using a paint pen. You could try going with a silver Infinity marker or a brand new silver Sharpie. Hats aren’t an ideal surface – couple that with a potentially wonky marker (no matter if you go Sharpie or paint pen) and it comes down to how much risk you are willing to assume. Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
What about using a uni orange paint marker or a orange deco paint marker on a black composite football?? Will it have the same effect of a silver paint marker?… gale sayers
I’ve never used orange but I assume it would work just as well. It will just be…orange. I haven’t heard of any difference in quality between Deco colors (like there are for Sharpies). Would love to see how it turns out.
Matt
What color, brand, and width of marker would you recommend for a MLB official base? Thanks for all the expert advice!
What color, brand, and width of marker would you recommend for a official 24kt gold MLB baseball and on a official MLB black baseball? Thanks for the help!
Hi- going to try an get a bulls red authentic rev30 procut signed by derrick rose. two questions, do I go with a silver extra fine point deco or just a regular fine point? second, the material on the number is almost mesh-like on the nba authentics…is that going to be an issue at all? Thanks for the help!
I’d go with a regular Deco for two reasons. First, the mesh is going to give you a more difficult signing surface (make sure you pull that tight and use a backing board!). Second, Derrick Rose has a pretty loopy signature, so I wouldn’t worry about losing any legibility with a finer point.
Matt- Thanks for the suggestions! If I’m grabbing a paint pen last-minute, would you still recommend the Decocolor or should I default to Sharpie? I got an impromptu invitation to a signing tonight and want the best paint pen for the job! (items: jersey, basketball)
Hey Melissa, stick to Deco on those items. Make sure the paint pen is prepped then continuing testing right up until you need to use it.
Matt
I have a Wilson CFL football I will be getting signed. It’s std. top grain leather (lighter brown than the NFL ball and white rings at each end). I think a black or silver sharpie will work. In my case though, I will be having it signed by many of the team players and am not sure what the best size (width) to use. (ie. will a fine point work well?). I have seen this ball with multiple autographs in silver (unknown pen … guessing sharpie) and the look is dramatic. However, whatever width was used made it impossible to even guess at the names,/numbers. Basically my application will be: multiple signatures (readability issue due to size of signatures) on light brown leather football (color issue, and width issue – needs to roll over pebble on leather) and signature will be collected in a fairly short time frame (drying time issue). Thoughts?
Hi Alan, I think your suggestion of the fine point is the correct one. Using a broad will end up being a big smudge. Let us know how it turns out.
Matt
Hi
I will be attending a signing event soon where I will have a rawlings black bat signed. I have never used the infinity before so I much not sure how the autograph will turn out. I was planning on using a silver deco, but I’m not sure if I should use the silver deco broad or the silver deco fine point for my black bat.
Hi Joseph, I would go with Deco. As for the tip, I think it depends on the signature. If the player has a very legible graph I’d go with a finer tip. If it’s one big looping scribble you may want a bolder signature.