POSCA Pigment Marker PC-5M — soft colors, tip 1.8–2.5 mm, waterproof, lightfast

POSCA Pigment Marker PC-5M — soft colors, tip 1.8–2.5 mm, waterproof, lightfast is a water-based pigment marker designed for versatile artistic and craft use. The medium bullet tip produces a consistent 1.8–2.5 mm line suitable for mid-weight strokes, fills and detail work. The opaque pigment ink lays down solid, matte color that becomes waterproof and resistant to fading once dry. The marker performs on paper, cardboard, wood, canvas and many mixed-media surfaces, making it useful for illustration, lettering, sketching and decorative applications.

Advantages

The POSCA PC-5M delivers highly opaque, water-based pigment ink that provides clean coverage and uniform color in soft pastel tones. Its medium bullet tip balances precision and coverage, allowing both controlled lines and broader fills without frequent tip wear. Because the ink is lightfast and becomes waterproof after drying, finished work maintains color stability and resists smudging when layered or varnished. The marker is compatible with many surfaces common to craft, design and fine-art projects.

Suitable for

• Illustration and sketching with medium-width strokes
• Hand-lettering, sign-making and decorative outlines
• Filling shapes and adding pastel accents on paper and cardboard
• Mixed-media work on wood and primed canvas
• Craft projects, school art and hobby applications

When it may not be suitable

Because the tip width is 1.8–2.5 mm, the PC-5M is not the best choice for extremely fine detail or micro-line work where a finer nib is required. Also, while the ink adheres well to many porous and sealed surfaces, it may perform less predictably on certain slick plastics, untreated metals or very glossy surfaces without prior surface preparation.

Key specifications

• Tip type: medium bullet (rounded)
• Line width: approximately 1.8–2.5 mm
• Ink type: water-based opaque pigment ink
• Finish: matte, opaque coverage
• Durability: lightfast pigments; waterproof when dry
• Suitable surfaces: paper, cardboard, wood, canvas, mixed media

How to use

Shake the marker well before use to mix the pigment. Press the tip gently on scrap paper until ink flows consistently, then test the line width and color. For even coverage, apply with steady strokes and allow layers to dry before overpainting. On non-porous or glossy surfaces, lightly scuff or prime the area first to improve adhesion. Cap the marker securely after use to prevent the tip from drying out.

What to consider before purchase

• Desired line width: medium bullet (1.8–2.5 mm) suits mid-weight strokes and fills
• Surface compatibility: works best on porous or primed materials like paper, cardboard, wood and canvas
• Color choice: soft, pastel tones provide opaque coverage but may require layering for deeper saturation
• Drying properties: ink becomes waterproof when dry; allow sufficient drying time before handling

Usage recommendations

For consistent results, store horizontally, shake well before each session, and test on a scrap piece of your chosen surface. Use the PC-5M for mid-width outlines, filling shapes and adding pastel accents; combine with finer and broader POSCA tips to cover a full range of line widths in illustration and lettering projects.