What have you found that last when marking your mini-blinds. I have tried #2 pencils and Sharpies "super permanent ink". As long as the labels are inside they keep, but outside in the sun they seem to last 1 year or less.

Does anyone use a brother's label maker? If so, what is the number on the tape. I have a QL-570 but been unable to find tape that is waterproof to purchase.

Thanks

Paint Pen[white] on the outside of the pot

I use an oil base paint pen, fine line black. Made by Mitsubishi Pencil, conforms to ASTM D 4236. Its fast drying. I think it comes in a couple different colors. Its actually a little metal cylinder about six inches long and half inch diameter that has a ball bearing inside that slides back and forth similar to an aerosol paint can. Probably same type Anthony is using. Last for years ouside. Some so called paint pens wash off or fade so you have to be cautious when you buy-these are not 'kiddie' pens. Spring loaded valve action tip. Pictures added for visual reference only o5/07/12

Paint pens, Oil Based, available at Staples and the like as well as crafts stores like Michael's. Asked at my local nursery and received a .

I use a Brother printer with the TZ tape which is laminated for outdoor use. You'll need to check their website to see what they have for tape that work with your model.

I also use TZ tape but so far only for my daylily markers. 4 years and they still hold on in all types of weather. I do have a Brother P-Touch which I believe is different from your QL model. Hope you can find a tape meant for outdoor use for your model.

Thanks, this information will help...

Not sure why your #2 pencil isn't working better. Press hard. I use it most of the time on the vinyl/plastic blinds and it stays completely readable for a minimum of 4 years in full sun in my pots, way longer if protected from sun or underground. Since I cram a lot of information on my tags, I need a fine line utensil. Paint pens from Michael's last longer, but their fine point isn't very fine. The tip looks the same as in Lorn's pic. Not sure if it is oil based or water based. Not sure (and no one has said point blank) if one (oil or water) is better than the other.

Pencil does not work on metal blinds, even when they are coated.

I use Avery clear address labels run through a laser printer and then I put them on my Eon markers. Best used when making a bunch of labels since there are 30 in a sheet. But I can dump everything into a word document and print it off that way. I've had some in the gardens 10 years of better... They marker disintegrates before the label usually does.