You Know the Markers, But What About the Workshop? Why I Swear by Neuland Estatics

You probably already know of Neuland's legendary markers, but what do you write on?

If you’ve ever seen me run a workshop or joined one of my Lean Six Sigma training groups, you’ll notice I have a secret weapon on my wall. I’m talking about Neuland Estatics, and honestly, I don't know how I ever managed without them.

Beyond the Markers: Importance of Quality Surfaces

If you already use Neuland markers, you're likely using Neuland paper too. If not, you should try it. Whether it's Neuland's flipchart paper or their large graphic wall rolls, the quality is head and shoulders above the rest. However, even high-quality paper is only part of my essential kit. In a workshop or training situation, delegates often need to add information during an exercise.

There is another aspect when running workshops & training sessions. It's not always possible to control the amount of workspace you have, particularly when running exercises. This makes material reliability essential.  Before finding Neuland, I, like many, would use Post-Its with varying degrees of success. As training and workshops became more popular, the need to professionalise my kit became more critical. I started with Neuland markers; you can never have enough! Then I moved to Neuland Flipchart paper, the tiny faint crosses tidied up my writing. After that, I moved on to Neuland Stick-it Cards.

The Problem with Traditional Stickies

The most significant pain point in my work as a trainer and facilitator used to be watching paper sticky notes curl up and abandon the wall halfway through a crucial training exercise. It was incredibly frustrating and disruptive, especially when I returned after lunch to find half the Post-Its scattered across the floor. I turned to Neuland Stick-It Cards. These are great; they are more reliable with a wider or double-stick strip. They are a higher-quality paper that doesn’t bleed through, and, best of all, they come in various sizes and shapes. I still use them in every session.

Another factor to consider. When delivering training or workshops at client companies, I always have to be careful not to damage their walls with sticky residue or have marker ink soak straight through the notes.

The Estatics Solution

The Estatics range from Neuland solved these issues overnight. They use static electricity, not glue. I can slap them on glass, a painted wall, a whiteboard, or even paper. They cling instantly and reliably to virtually anything.

Best of all, I can move them a dozen times during a workshop—sliding an idea from the 'Brainstorm' column to the 'Prioritized' column—and they never lose their charge. No glue means no mess, no residue, and no ruined paint. It’s brilliant. 

Versatility in Action

The versatility of Estatics is fantastic. The coloured side is perfect for outlining main ideas with the Neuland marker made especially for the job; the ink dries quickly and looks vibrant on the wall. I can then add shadow and colour with the rest of the Neuland marker range.

During training, I can set up a pre-drawn frame on the flipchart paper and then use the Estatics to complete the poster with ideas generated by the group or from pre-written Estatics. This saves significant time and paper, making my approach more sustainable because I don’t have to remake the entire poster or Estatic each time.

The Reusable Backside

But that’s not all. Flip them over, and the back is a glossy white surface where I can use a dry-erase marker. This is huge for quick iterations during training exercises. Participants can jot down temporary thoughts, wipe them clean, and reuse the same 'card' instantly. Again, this saves time and reduces waste.

Using these makes my training sessions and workshops run more smoothly and look cleaner. The colours keep energy levels high, and the fact that they don't fall off the wall prevents those awkward pauses where I’m scrambling for tape.

They are durable, easy to pack in my kit, and honestly, they make my work look more professional and polished. They’re a simple tool that delivers massive results.

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As a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Trainer and Coach, David Hirst helps individuals and teams discover smarter, more effective ways of working to better serve their customers. Find out more via: https://qualityexcellence.co.uk/lean-six-sigma-training-and-coaching/