Can I use Sharpie markers on metal to make an outdoor sign?

Here is a description of a permanent sharpies marker sold at Home Depot.

The Sharpie Magnum is an industrial strength permanent marker that can be used on wet and oily surfaces. This marker has a durable aluminum barrel and a felt tip. It is suitable for use on concrete, stone, tile, brick and metal.

• Recommended for use on concrete, stone, tile, brick, metal, plastics, wood, foil, boxes, poster board, vinyl and wax paper
• Works well on wet and oily surfaces
• Durable aluminum barrel and felt tip can stand up to heavy use, even on rough surfaces such as cement
• Industrial strength solvent based permanent marker

Yes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLVgwFiaJxo

I don't see why not!

The sun fades them out quickly. Know by experience.

You may want to spray with polyurethane when finished.

I believe you can, but make sure it is uv safe!

Getting permanent marker to stick to metal for the long haul can be tricky.

With Sharpie marks on wood, the ink of the marker gets embedded into the pores of the wood.

Metal that has been polished smooth has fewer “nooks and crannies” for the ink to get stuck.

Metals with rougher, textured surfaces will hold the ink better than smooth metals.

The tiny indentations will trap the ink and “protect” it from rubbing off.

To make Sharpie marks more permanent on smooth metal, I would recommend these steps:

1. Apply the Sharpie and allow it to dry completely.
2. Use a clear spray-on finish like Rustoleum Clear Coat over the top of the marking. This will add a protective layer.

Over time the spray-on coating will wear away a bit, but you can always apply another coat.

Hi Kathy, you sure can, but you will need to seal it. You can use a spray on clear coat to do this.

https://www.amazon.ca/Rust-Oleum-Painters-Touch-Ultra-Semi-Gloss/dp/B081FMDXRY/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=clear%2Bcoat&qid=1696872713&sr=8-13&th=1

Not the best choice. The sun will fade them.

Yes but if you don't seal it with time the marker will fade.