To get optimal performance from your Sharpie Metallic marker, the tip, as indicated on the barrel, must be stored downward. Since these markers contain tiny metallic flecks that make up more than ten percent of Sharpie Metallic ink, tip down storage allows these flecks to travel down to the tip, giving the user a vibrant, shiny mark on dark and light surfaces. For other metallic markers to achieve a similar high quality metallic mark, a valve-action ink system is required to keep the metallic flecks from settling or clogging within the marker. The benefit of using Sharpie Metallic markers is that tip down storage is the only requirement to keep the metallic flecks free flowing and there is considerably more control over the ink flow to the paper versus valve-action markers.
As a result of these unique properties, if a Sharpie Metallic marker has been stored tip-up and it does not write effectively, the most likely cause is that the heavy flecks of metal have settled away from the marker's tip. Simply storing the marker tip-down to allow the metallic flecks to travel back down to the marker's tip can easily rejuvenate the marker. Rejuvenation of the marker will take approximately as long as the marker was stored tip-up. If the marker was stored improperly for more than a day, allow up to 24 hours for full recovery to marker's optimal performance.
In the event you have just opened your Sharpie Metallic marker and found that the ink is not flowing appropriately, simply write with the marker, held at a normal writing angle, and apply moderate pressure - similar to how you would start a ballpoint pen when it is not working properly. This will loosen the ink flow and allow the metal flecks to return to normal after having most likely settled into the marker's tip while shipping.