The Best Markers for Your Acrylic Calendar or Board (Dry Erase vs. Chalk Markers — Explained)

If you've ever picked up the wrong marker and ended up with a scratched-up board or ink that won't budge, you already know: not all markers are created equal. Acrylic boards have a smooth, non-porous surface that's gorgeous to look at — but it does require a little know-how when it comes to what you write on it.

Here's the definitive breakdown.

The Two Types of Markers That Work on Acrylic

1. Liquid Chalk Markers 

Liquid chalk markers like the Chalk Ink markers we carry here at Girl Friday — are hands-down the most popular choice for acrylic calendars and boards, and for good reason.

They write beautifully on clear and white acrylic surfaces, producing bold, vibrant lines that look crisp and intentional. Because the ink sits on top of the surface rather than soaking in, it wipes off cleanly with a damp cloth or paper towel. No ghosting, no residue.

Best for:

• Clear acrylic wall calendars
• Fridge calendars (clear or white)
• Any board where you want a clean, decorative look

Tips for using chalk markers on acrylic:

• Shake the marker well and pump the tip on scrap paper before you start writing.
• For extra-fine detail work (like writing dates in small calendar squares), reach for a fine or extra-fine tip marker.
• Let the ink dry completely before closing a fridge door or touching the surface — it only takes a minute.
• To erase, just use a damp cloth. For stubborn marks that have been sitting a while, a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol works perfectly.

What NOT to do: Don't use chalk markers on matte or frosted acrylic — the ink can absorb into textured surfaces and become very difficult to remove.

2. Dry Erase Markers

Yes, dry erase markers do work on acrylic — but with some caveats.

Standard dry erase markers (like Expo) erase easily when the ink is fresh, but they can ghost over time, especially if you leave writing on the board for weeks without wiping. If you use your acrylic calendar as a long-term planning tool that you only update monthly, dry erase ink may leave a faint shadow behind.

Best for:

• White acrylic boards and fridge boards (where ghosting is less visible)
• Frequent writing and erasing (daily task lists, weekly planners)
• Office or business boards where speed matters over aesthetics

Tips for using dry erase markers on acrylic:

• Wipe the board clean every time you update it — don't let ink sit for more than a few weeks.
• Use a dry erase eraser or a microfiber cloth for best results.
• Avoid low-quality markers; they're more prone to staining. Expo and similar name brands perform better.
• If you notice ghosting, wipe the board with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a soft cloth.

What About Regular Markers (Sharpies, etc.)?

Don't do it. Permanent markers will stain acrylic and are extremely difficult to remove without damaging the surface. Stick to products made for dry erase or chalk ink use.

Which Should You Choose?

The Markers We Recommend

At Girl Friday, we carry chalk ink markers specifically chosen for use with our acrylic boards. They come in fine tip and extra-fine tip, plus a range of colors — from classic white to fun multicolor sets. We also carry wet-erase markers for surfaces that need a more permanent mark between deep cleans.

When in doubt, go chalk marker. Your board (and your future self, who doesn't want to scrub ghosted ink) will thank you.

Shop Girl Friday's full marker collection →