Glitter Markers vs Glossy Highlights: Which Adds More Shine
By Crafter's Companion | Craft Supplies | Papercraft & Art | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Not sure whether to use glitter markers or glossy highlights for your next papercraft project? This comparison breaks down the key differences in finish, application, and best uses so you can choose the right shine.
Quick answer
For a shimmering, colorful accent that blends into your artwork, choose glitter markers. For a clear, dimensional gloss that can also act as an adhesive for loose glitter, choose glossy highlights.
Finish and texture differences
Glitter markers deliver a fine, sparkly finish directly from the pen tip. The micro-pigments in the ink create a shimmering effect that works well for coloring and adding metallic accents. The finish is relatively flat and smooth, with the sparkle coming from the glitter particles suspended in the water-based ink.
Glossy highlights, on the other hand, provide a clear, raised gloss coating. When applied, it dries to a smooth, protective, and slightly domed surface that catches light differently than a flat glitter layer. It adds physical dimension, not just visual sparkle.
Application and versatility
Glitter markers are straightforward: uncap, shake, and draw. They come in a range of colors, allowing you to add sparkle directly to your design without extra steps. The clear overlay version can be used over other colors to add a subtle shimmer without changing the base hue.
Glossy highlights require a bit more precision. The fine tip applicator lets you apply the clear gel exactly where you want it, but it works best as a top coat or accent rather than a full-coverage shimmer. A key advantage is that it doubles as a glue, making it useful for sticking glitter or small embellishments.
When to use each
Reach for glitter markers when you want to color an entire area with sparkle, add shimmering details to a coloring page, or create metallic lettering. They are ideal for mixed media projects where you want the glitter to be part of the ink layer.
Use glossy highlights when you want to add a clear, glossy accent over an existing design, create a raised dot or line, or need a spot adhesive for loose glitter. The clear finish means it won't alter the color underneath, just add shine and dimension.
Glitter Markers vs Glossy Highlights: Trade-offs
- Finish type: Glitter markers produce a flat, sparkling finish; glossy highlights create a raised, clear gloss.
- Color options: Glitter markers come in multiple colors (including metallics and clear overlay); glossy highlights are clear only. If you need colored sparkle, glitter markers are the way to go.
- Application method: Glitter markers are applied like a pen; glossy highlights use a precision tip applicator for controlled placement.
- Dual function: Glossy highlights can also act as a glue for loose glitter and small embellishments; glitter markers cannot. If you need an adhesive, glossy highlights offer more utility.
- Best for: Glitter markers excel at coloring and adding shimmer to large areas; glossy highlights are best for accents, dots, and dimensional effects.
Product details
- SN-Glossy Highlights-Clear 60ml - Pack of 2: The Spectrum Noir Glossy Highlights Clear 3D Medium is a durable, clear gloss coating with a precision tip applicator. It is non-toxic and acid-free, and can also be used as glue for sticking glitter and small embellishments. This means you can use one product for both adding a glossy, dimensional accent and for adhering loose glitter, simplifying your crafting process.
SN-Glossy Highlights-Clear 60ml - Pack of 2 - Sparkle by Spectrum Noir (3pk) - Metallics: The Sparkle by Spectrum Noir (3pk) - Metallics set includes three glitter markers in metallic shades, part of the Spectrum Noir range, ideal for coloring and mixed media work. The metallic colors give you a ready-to-use shimmering palette for adding sparkly accents directly to your papercraft projects without additional steps.
Sparkle by Spectrum Noir (3pk) - Metallics
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Crafters who want to add colorful, sparkly accents directly from a pen
- Projects that need a raised, clear gloss coating or an adhesive for loose glitter
Not for
- If you need a full-coverage colored shimmer, choose glitter markers instead of glossy highlights
- If you want a flat, non-dimensional sparkle, choose glitter markers over glossy highlights
