You can write on BOPP colored tape by hand, but whether the writing can be easily erased depends mainly on the type of pen and the condition of the tape’s surface. Since the BOPP substrate itself is a low-surface-energy plastic film, ordinary water-based pens, gel pens, and ballpoint pens tend to slip on it, skip, or smudge easily when wiped.
Which pens work best for writing on colored BOPP tape?
We recommend using oil-based markers or paint markers. For example, the Deli Double-Ended Oil-Based Marker, Zebra Paint Marker, and Sharpie oil-based markers are all suitable for writing on smooth surfaces such as plastic, glass, and tape.
Black oil-based markers offer the highest contrast and are clearest on light-colored tape; white or silver paint markers are best suited for dark-colored tape, such as dark blue or dark green. Fine tips are ideal for writing numbers and dates, while broad tips are best for marking off areas.
Which pens are prone to fading?
Water-based pens, whiteboard markers, and standard gel pens aren’t well-suited for writing directly on BOPP tape. Their ink is water-based and has poor adhesion, so it can smudge easily with just a light touch of a finger.
Although pencil marks leave a trace, they can be easily smudged; ink with a high alcohol content can also be wiped off with alcohol or organic solvents. If the surface of the tape is covered with dust, grease, or release agent, the adhesion of the writing will be further reduced.
Dark-colored tape is harder to write on than light-colored tape.
The color of BOPP colored tape comes from the film layer or the pigment layer; a dark surface makes it harder for regular ink to show up clearly. Even when using a permanent marker, it is recommended to test it on a corner first to check the drying speed and clarity.
For light-colored tape, such as yellow, white, or light blue, a black permanent marker will suffice; for dark-colored tape, such as red, black, or dark blue, we recommend using a white or silver paint marker for better coverage.
You can verify this during procurement and use as follows:
Before making a bulk purchase, you can ask the manufacturer to confirm whether the base material has undergone corona treatment. Corona treatment increases the surface energy of BOPP, resulting in better adhesion for both printing and writing; untreated film typically has lower surface energy, making writing more prone to smudging.
Once the product arrives, you can perform a simple test: write a code using an oil-based marker, let it sit for 30 seconds, then gently rub it with your finger, followed by gently wiping it with a damp cloth or an alcohol swab. If the writing remains largely intact, it is suitable for everyday marking; if it rubs off immediately, you should replace the marker or adjust the surface of the tape.
relative product infomation
- Does the color of OPP colored tape fade, and how long does it retain its color when used outdoors?
- Does ordinary colored tape leave adhesive residue on the surface of an object when it is removed?
- Can you write on BOPP colored tape by hand? Will the writing come off easily?
- Do OPP colored tapes of different colors vary in terms of adhesive strength and tensile strength?
- How do I choose a type of OPP colored tape that is tough and resistant to breaking?
