How To Write On Metal Surfaces

Whether it’s for DIY or commercial work, finding out how to write on metal surfaces is hard.

Why? Well, there are many different finishes to consider! So here are some simple options for both permanent and removable marking:

How To Write On Metal Surfaces: Permanent Markings

First off, let’s tackle writing on metal permanently. Below are some of the ways you can achieve a permanent mark on metal surfaces for both commercial and DIY users.

1) Laser

Depending on what you’re trying to do, this can be a good option. For things like serial numbers and logos it’s perfect as it involves expensive machinery which can be incorporated into the manufacturing process. If you’re doing a DIY project, this might not be for you, though some companies do offer this as a standalone service.

2) Engraving

Many small stores can engrave metal for you but basic tools aren’t that expensive if you wanted to do it yourself. The only problem is, if you get it wrong, it’s permanently on your piece of metal… Probably best to get a professional to do it.

3) Letter Punching

An easy method of getting writing onto your metal surface. All you need is a hammer and some metal letters, which you can pick up relatively inexpensively online. One problem with these is that they usually only come in certain sizes, so your metal could end up with writing that either looks tiny or huge. Another problem is that they can be quite hard to get in a straight line, leaving you with very wiggly sentences!

4) Acid Etching

This is the most complicated method to do as a DIY and the most dangerous as it involves acids which can cause serious harm to you. We’d recommend steering clear of this method unless you have professional help.

For commercial use, however, this can be a good option.

How To Write On Metal Surfaces: Removable Markings

1) Steelwriter Pens

These pens are purpose built for writing on non-porous metal surfaces.

The non-toxic, Chloride free formulation is ideally used on metal surfaces as it won’t react and turn different colours. The pens come in a bright range of colours which is great for marking out areas that need to be cut or welded. The ink can be removed with a damp cloth and will leave no visible staining after going through the galvanisation process.

Commercially, you may want to use these pens for marking up metal that needs to be cut. For home use, they’re great for changing metal surfaces into unique canvases.

2) Permanent Markers

These pens aren’t designed to write on metal surfaces but can have some success.

The colours can appear less vibrant than a water-based chalk pen and removing the marks can also be difficult in comparison to specially designed steel writer pens. If there are no other options, you can just about get away with this.

3) Paint

Painting onto metal can work, though it’s harder to remove than using a steelwriter pen and it can easily chip off. Drying times are also a lot longer with paint, and the result is permanent. Not ideal if you’re just trying to write measurements or temporary order numbers.

Rainbow Recommends:

Well, our own products, of course! . If we didn’t believe in them, we wouldn’t sell them!

Our Steelwriter pens are the perfect tool for writing on metal and come in many different colours. They also come with a 10% discount for first time buyers, just use the code ‘ftb10’ when you get to the checkout.

So, take a look at our selection of Steelwriter pens here, or use the product boxes below to order yours now.