What makes Copic Markers so Unique?

Copic markers are the first marker created entirely with the designer in mind. The ink formula and colours haven't changed since they were first designed over 25 years ago. They are low-odor, so they won't overwhelm you when using them in small rooms. Body markings are embossed onto the pen so they won't rub off. Copic markers are environmentally friendly- you never throw them away, you just keep refilling them and replacing the tips. Markers can be airbrushed with and are blendable. Copic markers are filled with a dye suspended in alcohol and they become acid-free as soon as the alcohol evaporates.

How does the Colour-Number system work?

If we look at any marker, the first number stands for the Saturation, or how vibrant the colour is. 0's will be very vibrant, while 9's will be more dull or gray. The last digit tells you how light the marker is within that saturation group. For example, a BG01 will be light and make a nice bright highlight colour. BG05 is a vibrant mid-tone, or middle color. BG09 would be a strong shadow that matches that colour group. If you substitute a BG99 for your shadow, it will add a lot of gray for that colour blend and may look out of place.

How do I Blend colours?

The easiest way to blend colours is to start with the lighter colour, then colour over it with a darker colour, of similar tone, while the lighter colour is still wet. Then go back over the edge where the two colours meet with the lighter colour again. Or you can go with the colourless COPIC Blender over the area between the two colours until they blend smoothly into each other.

What types of surfaces do they work on?

Alcohol inks are permanent on many surfaces - paper, leather, wood, fabrics, plastic, faux fur, and more. On glossy surfaces, such as glazed ceramic and glass the ink can be scratched off, so use a sealant to protect the surface. Make sure that the sealant does NOT contain alcohol, ethanol, or any other form of alcohol as these will ruin your colouring.

What types of Ink / Paper work best when Colouring Stamped Images?

Alcohol inks will bleed through most papers stocks, so for best results, use clean white or ivory cardstock. Some popular choices are Prism Simply Smooth, Neenah Classic or Copic Illustration Paper. (avoid watercolour papers) Copic Markers are alcohol based and are not campatible with solvents inks like StazOn. Stampin' Up inks and papers are intended for water-based media and do not work well with Copics. For best results, use a dye based ink when stamping, such as Tsukineko Memento or Rangers Adirondack Inks. For consistant results, try heat-setting your image before colouring. You can also add clear embossing powder and heat set to prevent inks from bleeding. Avoid coloured embossing powders as they react with the markers.