🎨 Colouring Without Bleeding: The Best Pens for Jungle Milestone Disks

It all started with a quiet Saturday morning, a big cup of tea, and the joyful chaos of little hands reaching for pens and paints. We had just unpacked a fresh batch of our Jungle Milestone Disks—those raw, unfinished little circles that hold so much possibility.

My daughter was the first to grab one. She traced the engraved lion with such care, her tongue peeking out in concentration. Then came the colour—bold, bright orange—but before I could warn her, the ink had feathered into the grain of the wood. That’s when I knew it was time to put together a proper guide for all of you.

Because here’s the thing: decorating basswood can be magic, but only if you’re using the right tools.

What Pens Work Best on Basswood?

We trialled. We tested. We accidentally ruined a few disks. And now we know: acrylic paint pens are the clear winner for colouring and for writing, Ball Point pens are perfect way to go as they write cleanly and don't bleed.

These pens are perfect for colouring in the jungle animals, writing baby's name, or letting big brothers and sisters get creative. The ink sits beautifully on the surface, dries quickly, and most importantly—it doesn’t bleed.

Our Go-To Colouring Favourites:

• Anko (Kmart and Target) - Acrylic Paint Markers, cheap, no odour 

• Uni-Posca Paint Pens – Water-based, vibrant, and smooth.
  

• Molotow ONE4ALL Acrylic Markers – Great opacity and eco-conscious too.

• Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers – A bit stronger in scent, but amazing for detail.

You want something that glides, covers well, and doesn’t sink into the soft, open grain of the wood. That’s the secret.

⚠️ How to Avoid Bleeding (Even With the Best Pens)

Even with the perfect paint pen in hand, a few simple steps can make all the difference. If you want to keep those crisp lines and fine details, here’s what we always recommend:

1. Start Smooth

Give each disk a quick once-over with some fine-grit sandpaper. Basswood is soft, and even a gentle sanding helps seal the grain just enough to prevent bleeding.

2. Test First (Always!)

Every pen behaves a little differently—especially if it’s been sitting in a drawer or shaken too hard. Try it on the back of the disk first. It only takes a second, and it saves disappointment later.

3. Stick to Fine or Medium Tips

Thicker brush pens look fun but often lay down too much paint. The finer the nib, the more control you’ll have—and the less likely it is to soak in too far.

4. Let It Dry

This one is hard with kids around, we know. But rushing it leads to smudges, smears, and blurred edges. Give it a few minutes to settle.

5. Seal It (If You Want To)

Once your disk is decorated and completely dry, a light mist of matte spray sealant or varnish will lock in those colours for years to come. This step is optional, but worth it if you’re planning to keep your milestone disks as a lasting keepsake.

🌿 Making Moments That Matter

These little disks might seem simple at first glance. But when you sit down with your kids, or your best friend at a baby shower, and you each decorate one—it becomes something more.

It’s a moment.

And we believe those moments deserve to be captured with care.

So, whether you’re colouring in the leaves of a tiny jungle tree, or writing a sibling’s message to their new baby brother or sister—take your time. Choose the right pen. Let it dry.

And enjoy the magic of creating something truly yours.

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Shop our Jungle Milestone Disks here

Have questions about which paint pens to buy? Want to share a photo of your decorated disks? We’d love to see! Tag us @todaytomorrowalways_au on Instagram or drop us a message. We’re always here to help you create memories. 💛