When your hard-working tag is ready for some sprucing up, the following tips will help you refresh it.
THE 'BLACK' INSIDE THE DESIGN HAS FADED: Your tag can be touched up using a black Permanent Sharpie Marker.
You'll need:
- Dish soap, water and an old tooth brush
- Black Permanent Marker (regular or industrial)
- 90% or greater strength isopropyl alcohol OR acetone nail polish remover
- Cotton balls, paper towel, OR a soft cloth rag
Here's my own dog's tag, covered in mud and with the ink faded.
There's bound to be debris trapped inside the crevices of the design. An old toothbrush helps to coax that out as you scrub it with soap and water. You'll want to get it as clean as possible, so the ink can adhere well.
Be sure to let the tag dry fully. You don't want any water remaining, since it's likely to dilute the ink you're going to apply next.
Cover both the front and backside of your tag with the Sharpie marker. Don't be afraid to press hard to get the felt tip of the marker to release plenty of ink to fill the design.
Set aside and let dry for 10 minutes.
Use cotton balls, a paper towel or a soft cloth rag, dabbed with some acetone nail polish remover, OR some isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher strength recommended), to wipe off the excess marker from the surface.
The marker will easily rub off of the flat surfaces, while remaining within the crevices of the design.
If you accidently remove too much ink, simply re-colour with the marker. There's no limit to how many times you can ink it!
Helps to rinse the tag under warm water afterward, and use your thumb to rub any leftover marker haze from the flat surfaces. Avoid rubbing any trees in the the design.
Voila! Your tag is ready for more wild dog adventures!