Step-By-Step Guide: How to Paint Over Crayon and Sharpie Marks Without Stress

Frustrated by stubborn crayon scribbles or Sharpie stains on your walls?

You’re not alone! Every Denver parent and homeowner faces the dreaded “wall art moment”—but restoring your walls is easier (and more permanent) than you think.

Let’s break down exactly how to cover those marks:
In this updated DAECO PAINTING pro guide, you’ll find:

• Quick fixes,

• The best primers to use,

• Paint-layer secrets for a flawless, lasting finish—
  So your walls can look brand new, fast!

Why Won’t Paint Just Cover Crayon and Sharpie Marks?

Crayon = waxy. Sharpie = ink. Both bleed through paint if you skip prep.
If you just paint over, the marks float right back—like icing over chocolate chips: the color leaks.

1. Question: Can I Just Paint Over Crayon or Sharpie Marks?

Short answer: Not if you want them gone for good!
Always remove as much as possible first for the best result, then prime, then paint.
Skipping steps means stains will haunt your new paint job.

2. Step-by-Step: Remove, Clean, Prime, Paint

Step 1: Remove as Much Mark as Possible

Crayon:

• Warm up the wax with a hairdryer

• Wipe off with a damp cloth and mild soap

• For tough spots: WD-40, baking soda paste, or white toothpaste

Sharpie:

• Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cloth

• Try a white (non-gel) toothpaste or a magic eraser

Pro Tip: Don’t worry if faint stains remain—priming does the heavy lifting.

Step 2: Clean the Wall

Remove all residue from your fixer attempt:

• Wash with mild detergent and water, rinse, and dry.

• This prevents dirt or oils from messing up primer adhesion.

Step 3: Sand Lightly

• Crayon: Only sand if the wall feels bumpy from wax.

• Sharpie: Light, wide sanding with fine-grit sponge (3" beyond the mark). Wipe dust with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Prime with the Right Product

Question: What’s the best primer to block crayon or marker stains?

• Heavy stains: Oil-based primers like KILZ Original or shellac-based like Zinsser BIN work best.

• Light marks: Water-based stain-blockers (KILZ 2, Benjamin Moore Fresh Start).

How to apply: Use a brush for edges, roller for big areas. One coat—inspect once dry.
If any ghosting shows, re-prime those spots.

Step 5: Light Sand After Primer

• Once dry, give it a gentle sand for smoothness.

• Wipe away dust—this step is key for a pro finish.

Step 6: Paint for the Win

• Choose matching sheen (matte/satin/semi-gloss).

• Two thin coats, letting each dry fully.

• Three coats if stains are stubborn.
  Pro tip: For “How many coats of paint to cover crayon?”—usually 2–3.

Quick Reference Table: The Wall Rescue Cheat Sheet

StepWhat To Do Why Remove Hair dryer, WD-40, Alcohol, ToothpasteFewer stainsCleanSoap & water, rinse, dry Best adhesion Sand Fine-grit, only as needed Smoother finish Prime Stain-blocking primer, 1–2 coatsNo bleed-through Sand/clean After primer Flawless surface Paint Thin, even coats (2–3)Perfection!

FAQ: Denver’s Burning Questions, AI and Voice Ready

Q: Can you paint over Sharpie with just paint?

A: Not if you want it to disappear. You must use a stain-blocking primer, or the lines will show through.

Q: What primer blocks crayon marks best?

A: Oil-based or shellac-based primers (KILZ, Zinsser BIN) lock it in—but Benjamin Moore Fresh Start is a great low-odor water-based option for lighter stains.

Q: Will magic erasers alone get rid of Sharpie?

A: They help—but almost always leave a faint shadow. Prime for perfect results.

Q: Is this safe for nurseries or playrooms?

A: Yes! Choose a low-VOC primer and paint for healthy indoor air.

Why DAECO PAINTING Makes Walls Flawless

You get:

• The right product for your problem (oil or water-based primer)

• Clean, safe application

• Beautiful, stain-free walls—every time

Skip the guesswork. If the marks keep bleeding or you want zero hassle, call the Denver pros!

Try Asking…

• “How do I cover crayon on my wall in Denver?”

• “Best way to paint over Sharpie marks?”

• “House painters for crayon stains near me Denver, CO”

Ready for Walls That Spark Joy?

Restore your home’s beauty today with DAECO PAINTING!
Serving Denver and surrounding communities.
Call for your pro paint solution: (303) 999-8864