Markers for laminated surfaces

[Unregistered]

What works best to write kids names with on laminated surfaces if you want to re-use the items next year (such as name plates, mailbox slots, etc.). I have heard dry expo markers, vis a vis, or even Sharpie markers can be used if you clean with rubbing alcohol. What do others suggest? I really don't want to re-purchase a bunch of things next year that may not match with my room decor.

[Dru]

It's been working for me for the past 5 years.

[Cameron G.]

I love Vis-a-Vis too! It doesn't destroy the surfaces either.

[Unregistered]

I use expo or sharpies because they don't rub off as easy as vis a vie pens do, I have used these for years and clean my posters with no problems.

[Unregistered]

I use a permanent Sharpie Marker....it comes off easily with hairspray or fingernail polish....I have had some trouble getting off dry erase and wet erase markers from laminated surfaces.

[Unregistered]

I saw a clear contact paper at Staples that was designed for dry erase markers and cleans much easier. If I used this product, I would laminate the surface first and then cut out a piece to go over it. I find with both Vis a vis and Expo markers that the spray used to clean them can weaken the laminate if you're not careful and have had to change my bulletin board paper a lot from the run off.

becky

[Unregistered]

Permanent markers work great...use Alcohol to take it off....piece of cake!!

[Unregistered]

IF a surface does not clean a permanent mark easily take a dry erase marker and write over the words or scribble over them with an erasable markers. Then erase and it disappears. Discoverd this when i accidentally wrote on my marker board with a permanent marker. Students (YES atudetns ) told me how to erase it and it worked.

[Unregistered]

i will never forget the look my professor gave me when he accidentally wrote an entire two-hour lecture's worth of notes on a white board with magic marker... and it all came off when he wrote over it with dry erase. works wonders!

[Unregistered]

You can also use washable markers, though those work best for shorter-term things. However, they come off far easier than the others and won't damage the kids' clothes!

[Unregistered]

I used Sharpie markers and discovered that the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser sponge worked on removing Sharpie from surfaces easier than alcohol or other solvents, and it didn't damage the surface. Also, it's non-toxic!
Lori