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Glitter paint pen guide

Glitter pens come in three quite different kinds: opaque glitter paint markers, glitter gel pens for writing, and clear or tinted glitter brush pens that add sparkle over other colors. Each suits a different job. Here is how to tell them apart and which to pick for cards, lettering, rocks and fabric.

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Updated

Glitter paint pen guide: illustration of an acrylic paint marker drawing a bold stroke

Short answer

For sparkle that also covers, use a glitter paint marker such as Posca’s glitter PC-3M, which Posca sells in 8 glitter colors in the fine tip only. For writing and journaling, a glitter gel pen such as the Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust. To add shimmer over other colors, a clear glitter brush pen. For fabric, use glitter fabric paint or markers sold for fabric.

Glitter paint pens on Amazon

Glitter paint markers, gel pens and brush pens, each listing checked by hand.

Each pick links to an Amazon listing we checked by hand. Prices, colors and pack sizes change on Amazon, so check the listing before you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Three kinds of glitter pen

Glitter pens by type

TypeWhat it doesBest forExample
Glitter paint markerOpaque paint with glitter, covers other colorsLettering, cards, rocks, wood, accentsPosca glitter PC-3M
Glitter gel penThin rollerball line with sparkleWriting, journaling, coloring detailsSakura Gelly Roll Stardust
Glitter brush penClear or tinted shimmer over other colorsAdding sparkle to finished artKuretake ZIG Wink of Stella
Glitter fabric paintSparkle that survives washing when setT-shirts, bags, costumesFabric paints and markers sold for fabric

Posca glitter paint markers

Posca’s range page lists 8 glitter colors: yellow, orange, red, pink, violet, green, light blue and dark blue, each in the PC-3M fine tip only. They behave like other Posca markers: shake with the cap on, prime on scrap, and let each coat dry. Because they come in one fine size, they suit lettering, outlines and accents rather than big fills. Every Posca color family is on Posca colors.

Glitter paint markers on different surfaces

Glitter paint pens for fabric

Glitter paint pens for fabric are usually fabric paints in a squeeze bottle or marker body, not art paint markers. Water-based paint markers such as Posca can be heat set on fabric as Posca directs, ironing inside out with no steam, but glitter particles may make the surface rougher and less flexible. For clothes that will be washed often, use products labeled for fabric and wash inside out.

Making glitter show

  1. Color underneath

    Glitter reads best over a matching color. Paint the shape in a solid color first, then go over it in glitter.

  2. Light coats

    Thick glitter coats take longer to dry and can crack. Two light coats beat one heavy one.

  3. Dark backgrounds

    Glitter sparkles most next to black and navy.

  4. Seal carefully

    Spray sealers can dull glitter slightly. A gloss sealer keeps more sparkle than matte.

Glitter vs metallic vs neon

Metallic markers give a smooth sheen, glitter gives sparkle, and neon gives glow. For sheen, see metallic paint markers and gold paint markers; for glow, neon paint markers. Glitter pink is popular for cards and party decor; more pinks are on pink paint markers.

Questions people ask

What are the best glitter paint pens?

It depends on the job. For opaque glitter color on paper, wood, stone and card, Posca’s glitter PC-3M paint markers, sold in 8 glitter colors. For writing, glitter gel pens such as Sakura Gelly Roll Stardust. For sparkle over other colors, a clear glitter brush pen. Big budget acrylic sets also include a few glitter colors.

Can you just add glitter to paint?

Yes, for brushed paint. Stir fine craft glitter into acrylic paint or a clear acrylic medium, or brush clear medium over dry paint and sprinkle glitter onto it while wet. Fine glitter mixes best; chunky glitter sits on top. Do not add loose glitter to a paint marker, since it will clog the valve and tip.

Does Dollar Tree have glitter pens?

Stock varies by store and season, so we cannot say what a given store has. Discount and craft stores often carry glitter gel pens and glitter glue pens in the school and craft aisles. Check the store’s website or call ahead, and compare against the types on this page so you know what you are buying.

Does Hobby Lobby sell glitter pens?

We do not track any store’s stock, and it changes. Craft chains commonly carry glitter gel pens, glitter paint markers and glitter brush pens in their art supply sections. Check the store’s website for current listings before a trip.

What is the best glitter pen for writing?

A glitter gel pen, because the rollerball tip lays a thin, smooth line that dries with sparkle. Sakura’s Gelly Roll Stardust is a common choice; test it on dark paper first. Glitter paint markers are better for lettering and bold accents than for long writing.

Sources

  1. Sarah Renae Clark, Ultimate Acrylic Paint Marker Comparison (March 2026)
  2. The Posca range (maker)

Last reviewed 2026-10-14. Specs and availability change; check the listing before you buy.