In December 2023, Family Handyman published "Amazon Finds: Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pens – My Wall Repair Journey," a comprehensive hands-on review of the Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen. Senior Shopping Editor Caroline Lubinsky independently tested the product over several months in real-world conditions, evaluating its performance on walls, ceilings, furniture, and trim throughout her home. The Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen received strong recommendations for its ease of use, refillability, and ability to keep paint fresh for extended periods. Read the original feature here: https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/touch-up-paint-pen/
At a Glance
- Publication: Family Handyman
- Article: "Amazon Finds: Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pens – My Wall Repair Journey"
- Author: Caroline Lubinsky, Senior Shopping Editor
- Published: December 5, 2023
- Review Type: Independent purchase and multi-month testing
- Product Featured: Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen (refillable)
- Availability: Available in 2-pack and 5-pack options
- Link: https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/touch-up-paint-pen/
What the Article Covers
The Family Handyman review provides an in-depth, real-world evaluation of the Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen based on months of actual use. Key aspects covered include:
- Product Overview: The pen-like design features a see-through plastic reservoir for paint, filled using an included syringe, with a brush-tip applicator similar to traditional paint brushes
- Testing Methodology: The reviewer used the pen extensively on multiple surfaces including walls, ceilings, furniture, chair rails, and a headboard
- Ease of Use: The article emphasizes the straightforward filling process and simple twist-to-dispense mechanism
- Refillability: Detailed instructions on how to clean, dry, and reuse the pens for different paint colors
- Paint Freshness: Discussion of Slobproof's claim that paint stays fresh for up to seven years when properly stored with the included cap
- Versatility: Notes the pen works with latex and water-based paints and can be used on various surfaces
- Value Assessment: Reviews the pricing (around $20 for a two-pack) and compares features across the 2-pack and 5-pack options
- User Testimonials: Includes feedback from multiple verified Amazon purchasers who praise the product's effectiveness
Why Family Handyman Featured Slobproof
Family Handyman selected the Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen for independent review as part of their "Amazon Finds" series, which highlights useful products for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. The review emerged from the editor's personal experience as someone who frequently needs touch-up solutions—describing herself as someone who "can't bring items up the stairs without dinging them on the wall."
The publication chose this product because:
- It addresses a common homeowner pain point: dings, scratches, and nicks on painted surfaces
- The refillable design offers environmental and economic benefits over disposable alternatives
- The pen format provides precision application that traditional brushes and paint cans cannot match
- The product had generated significant interest on Amazon with strong customer reviews
- It represents an innovative solution to touch-up painting that differs from conventional methods
The reviewer specifically noted: "Using this pen was so easy that I wanted to do each nook and cranny in my home, leaving no stone unpainted."
Key Takeaways from the Review
Pros Highlighted by Family Handyman:
- Reasonably priced at approximately $20 for a two-pack
- Long-lasting paint freshness with claimed 7-year shelf life when properly capped
- Refillable and reusable design reduces waste and allows use with multiple paint colors
- Simple to use with intuitive syringe-filling system and twist-dispensing mechanism
- Versatile application works on walls, ceilings, trim, furniture, and drywall
- Compatible with common paints including latex and water-based formulas
- Precision application with small brush tip for detailed touch-ups
- Portable and convenient can be stored with painting supplies for quick access
Reviewer's Final Verdict:
"Whether you own or rent your home, the Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pens are a staple I recommend. Keep them alongside your primer, roller and paint brushes. They're about to become your handy best friend."
What to Consider:
The review notes that the small brush tip, while excellent for precision work on dings and scratches, may not be ideal for touching up larger damaged areas. For extensive repairs, traditional painting methods may be more efficient.
Real User Experiences from the Article
The Family Handyman article included testimonials from verified Amazon purchasers:
Sarah Lynn (5-star review): "Highly recommend these touch-up pens. Easy to use. I've been using them in my new construction home for around eight months now on the drywall and trim. With dogs and young children, these are a must-have to fix little spots. Love these pens."
Samantha W.: "I am IN LOVE with this product. It made touching up my house so easy before I listed it for sale. It was super easy to use and the paint blended seamlessly, it looks like there was absolutely never anything stuck into my walls. Love it, definitely a gem."
L. Grimes: "These are the coolest little things. The paint stays 'fresh' and the brush doesn't dry out in between uses. This is literally the perfect paint pen for everyday touch-ups and scratches. You get two in a package, so you can fill them with two different paint colors to have on hand for the higher traffic rooms of the house."
How Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pens Work
The Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen features a simple yet effective design for homeowners and professionals:
Filling Process:
- Use the included syringe to draw paint from your existing paint can
- Insert the syringe into the clear plastic reservoir at the top of the pen
- Dispense the paint into the reservoir (visible through the transparent housing)
- Close the pen and twist to prime the brush tip
Application:
- Twist the upper portion of the pen to dispense paint to the brush
- Apply to damaged areas with brush-like strokes
- The small tip allows precision application to dings, scratches, and nicks
- Cap immediately after use to keep paint fresh
Maintenance and Reuse:
- Turn the end piece until it pops out for cleaning
- Remove and wash the brush to prevent color mixing
- Dry thoroughly before refilling with a different paint color
- Store with cap on to maintain paint freshness for up to seven years
Applications for Homeowners and Professionals
Based on the Family Handyman review and user testimonials, the Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen excels in these scenarios:
For Homeowners:
- Quick touch-ups on walls after moving furniture or hanging artwork
- Repairing scuffs and dings from daily living with children or pets
- Pre-sale home preparation to present a well-maintained appearance
- Maintaining painted trim, doors, and baseboards
- Touching up furniture projects between major refinishing
- Fixing ceiling damage from furniture moves or accidents
For Renters:
- Security deposit-saving repairs before move-out inspections
- Maintaining walls in high-traffic areas without full repainting
- Quick fixes that don't require opening full paint cans
For Professionals:
- Final touch-ups on painting projects before client walkthroughs
- Maintaining model homes and show properties
- Quick repairs on rental properties between tenants
- Detail work where precision matters more than coverage area
For DIY Enthusiasts:
- Arts and crafts projects requiring controlled paint application
- Furniture restoration and upcycling projects
- Decorative painting with multiple colors
- Small-scale creative projects
Product Specifications
- Capacity: Refillable clear plastic reservoir
- Application Method: Brush tip (similar to traditional paint brush)
- Dispensing Mechanism: Twist upper portion to release paint to brush
- Compatible Paints: Latex-based and water-based paints
- Included Accessories: Syringe for filling, plastic cap for storage
- Paint Freshness: Up to 7 years when properly capped (manufacturer claim)
- Reusability: Fully cleanable and refillable for multiple paint colors
- Package Options: 2-pack or 5-pack configurations
- Price Point: Approximately $20 for 2-pack (as of review publication)
Where to Purchase
The Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen is available through multiple retailers:
- Amazon: Featured in the Family Handyman article as an "Amazon Find"
- Slobproof.com: Direct from manufacturer at www.slobproof.com
- PaintPen.com: Specialty site at www.paintpen.com
- MyPaintPen.com: Available at www.mypaintpen.com
About Slobproof
Slobproof™ is a Maryland, USA-based company specializing in innovative paint application solutions for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals. The company's flagship product, the Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pen, was designed to address the common frustration of maintaining painted surfaces without the hassle of opening full paint cans, cleaning brushes, and dealing with dried-out touch-up paint.
The refillable design reflects Slobproof's commitment to creating sustainable, cost-effective solutions that reduce waste while providing professional-quality results. By enabling users to keep their existing paint fresh and accessible for years, Slobproof helps homeowners maintain beautiful spaces with minimal effort and expense.
Full Citation
Lubinsky, Caroline. "Amazon Finds: Slobproof Touch-Up Paint Pens – My Wall Repair Journey." Family Handyman, Trusted Media Brands, Inc., Dec. 5, 2023, https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/touch-up-paint-pen/. Accessed January 2025.
