Sharpie is an American brand of writing instruments best known for its permanent markers. Since its introduction in 1964, Sharpie has grown into one of the world’s most recognizable marker brands, offering a wide range of products including permanent markers, paint markers, highlighters, gel pens, rollerball pens, and creative markers. Today, the brand is owned by Newell Brands and is sold in markets around the world. [1]

Origins

Sharpie’s story began long before the brand itself was created. In 1857, Frederick W. Redington and William H. Sanford Jr. established the Sanford Manufacturing Company in Worcester, Massachusetts. Initially, the company specialized in producing inks and adhesives before expanding into writing instruments. [2]

In 1964, Sanford introduced the Sharpie Fine Point Permanent Marker, the world’s first pen-style permanent marker. Unlike bulky industrial markers of the time, Sharpie combined portability with permanent, quick-drying ink that adhered to a wide variety of surfaces, including:

• Paper

• Plastic

• Glass

• Metal

• Wood

• Stone

The product quickly became popular among offices, schools, artists, and consumers. [2]

Growth and Expansion

Throughout the following decades, Sharpie expanded its product lineup.

1979

• Extra Fine Point marker introduced.

1990s

• Became the preferred marker for sports autographs.

• Grew alongside the booming sports memorabilia industry.

Early 2000s New products included:

• Mini Sharpie

• Retractable Sharpie

• Paint markers

• Additional ink colors

• Specialty markers

By the early 2000s, more than 200 million Sharpie markers had been produced. [2]

Originally developed by Sanford Ink Company, Sharpie became part of Newell Brands after Newell acquired Sanford in 1990. Today, Newell Brands also owns several other well-known consumer brands in writing, home, and outdoor products. [1]

Sharpie now offers a broad portfolio of writing products, including:

Permanent Markers

• Fine Point

• Ultra Fine Point

• Extra Fine Point

• Chisel Tip

• Brush Tip

• Magnum

• Mini

• Retractable

Pens

• S-Gel Gel Pens

• Rollerball Pens

Highlighters

• Tank-style

• Pocket

• Accent

Creative Products

• Acrylic Paint Markers

• Creative Markers

• S-Note Creative Markers

• Metallic markers

• Neon markers

• GlamPop collections

The brand frequently releases seasonal colors and special editions aimed at artists, students, and crafters. [2]

Sharpie positions itself as a symbol of bold self-expression. Its long-running branding emphasizes creativity, confidence, and permanence, using slogans centered around leaving a lasting mark. The company markets its products not only for everyday writing but also for art, design, DIY projects, organization, and personalization. [2]

Sharpie products are commonly used for:

• Office work

• School supplies

• Industrial labeling

• Arts and crafts

• Hand lettering

• Packaging

• Sports memorabilia signatures

• DIY projects

• Home organization

Their permanent ink is designed to resist water and fading on many surfaces.

Sharpie has become so well known that, particularly in the United States, the brand name is often used informally as a generic term for any permanent marker, much like some other brands become synonymous with their product categories. This widespread recognition has made Sharpie one of the most iconic names in stationery. [1]

The brand has also appeared in:

• Professional sports

• Celebrity autograph sessions

• Art communities

• Social media DIY trends

• Educational settings

Sharpie products are manufactured in facilities including:

• Maryville, Tennessee (USA)

• Mexicali, Baja California (Mexico)

The brand also works with manufacturing partners globally. [1]

Sharpie is widely recognized for:

• Durable permanent ink

• Fast-drying performance

• Wide color selection

• Reliable writing on multiple surfaces

• Strong brand recognition

• Versatility for both professional and creative use

The brand consistently ranks among the best-known marker brands in North America and is commonly found in schools, offices, studios, and homes.

1. Sharpie (marker)

2. About Sharpie | Sharpie