Copic Markers
Copic Markers contain alcohol based ink as opposed to waterbased ink and even if you don't use them often, they have guaranteed shelf life of at least three years provided the cap is secured properly. Copic
Ciao Markers have a brush tip on one end and a nib tip on the other and
will work fine whether stored horizonally or vertically.
What is the difference between alcohol and waterbased markers?
Alcohol ink does not tear up paper and create balling when worked in one area. They are acid free and waterproof once dry and wont wash away.
The ink is permanent and suitable for paper, wood, leather, fabric, faux fur and more.
Can you cross-contaminate markers?
Copic Markers will not ruin other Copic Markers. You can colour directly on to other Copic Marker tips and it will not discolour or ruin your marker. It is actually a fun way to produce great colour blends! Custom colour markers can be made by mixing various inks in an empty bottle then transferred into an empty marker.
What ink and paper should I use with Copic Markers?
As these markers are alcohol based, they will disolve some inks. A tried and tested favourite throughout the stamping world is Momento ink by Tsukineko.
Colours appear best on papers specifically designed for these markers. Copic has developed a variety of special marker papers. Sketchbooks come in a variety of sizes and Marker Pads come in a wide range of weights and textures so you can have the right tools for the job.
COPIC COLOUR SYSTEM
The letters on your marker tell you what family they belong to:
B - Blue
BG - Blue Green
BV - Blue Violet
G - Green
YG - Yellow Green
Y - Yellow
YR - Yellow Red
R - Red
RV - Red Violet
V - Violet
E - Earth
C - Cool Gray
N - Neurtral Gray
T - Toner Gray
W - Warm Gray
The numbers following the letter system explain the qualities of light, dark and gray colours in that marker.
How do I pick colours that will blend naturally together?
Choose colours that have the same letter and first number. Then choose darker markers and keep 2-3 digits between the last digit. This will ensure gradual steps in colour and you know they will blend well together! Start with the light colour then gradually add in darker tones.
What is the difference between black 100 and 110?
100 is a 'true' deep blue black. 110 is a slightly neutral gray black. It comes down to what pigments were used to make up each colour. 110 would be equivalent to T11 if such a number existed. The two blacks may look different on some papers.
What is the difference between grays?
Cool grays are bluish or cool. Neutral grays have no tone, warm or cool. Toner grays are slightly warmer or brown than neutral.
~ These FAQ's and many more are available on the Copic Marker website at www.copicmarkers.com.au ~
