Line width follows how hard you press, which is what makes modern lettering and loose illustration possible and what frustrates anyone expecting immediate results. Nib material decides longevity: felt tips are forgiving and wear to a point, synthetic bristles hold a finer line for longer. Water-based inks are kinder to ordinary paper than alcohol. See art markers, brush markers and calligraphy pens.

Artline paint markers displayed with metal, timber and PVC materials on a bright workshop bench.