We have been carrying these little beauties for a while now and still get a lot of questions about these markers. So I thought I would devote a blog post to them and their super power capabilities! Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to those questions....
Q: What’s the difference between markers?
The basic chart below gives you a quick comparison between marker types. For more specific information you can go to the info pages for each type.
Q: What makes Copic markers so unique?
Copic markers are the first marker created entirely with the designer in mind. The ink formula and colors 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.
Q: Why is alcohol based different than water based?
When water-based markers are layered and blended they tear up the surface of most papers. Alcohol inks do not harm the paper surface. They can be layered and blended on surfaces other than paper as well. Alcohol inks are waterproof and will not wash away.
Copic markers are filled with a dye suspended in alcohol and they become acid-free as soon as the alcohol evaporates.
Q: What do you mean by Shelf Life?
Copic Markers and inking pens will not dry out if they are not used and the caps are securely closed. This is guaranteed for at least 3 years.
Q: Should I store my markers Horizontally or Vertically?
Copic markers will work fine when they are stored either direction.
Q: What 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 coloring.
Q: What other media can you use Copic markers with?
Copic markers are used most commonly with colored pencil and watercolors. We suggest doing your marker work first and adding other media after the marker is dry. If you use colored pencil, acrylics, guache, or white-out and go over it with your markers it may discolor the tip. To avoid a permanently discolored tip, immediately scribble quickly on a separate piece of paper or tissue to clean the tip. Even if your tip is discolored it will still give you a clear ink flow.
Q: How do you clean marker ink (from tables, fabric, hands)?
Use a little colorless blender, rubbing alcohol, or hand-sanitizer.
So there you have it..a little bit of info on these inking and colouring wonders. You do not have to be a stamping pro to learn how to use these markers. Remember what we always tell our children--all it takes is a bit of practice!
We offer a wonderful Blending and Shading with Copics ($35) Class. This class is taught by Tobi, a certified Copics Instructor and blending whiz. If you have been curious about Copics than this is the perfect class for you. We do have a class running this Sunday, August 15th and it is filling up. You can register here or by calling (604) 514-2229.
Now if you already have experience with Copics or would just like to try your hand at using them, then we have some amazing classes coming up.
Clouds and Banners ($20) with Tobi is coming up on Sunday, August 15th from 2-4pm. You can register here or by calling (604) 514-2229.
Now if you are in the mood for a little Christmas card action then here are a couple of classes for you...
Whimsical Wonderland $20--Classes starting in September. Can register here or by calling the Store.
Are you ready to get started on your holiday cards? Now is the time! Whipper Snapper makes some of the cutest Christmas and winter-themed stamps, and we get to play big-time with Flower Soft, Glitter, and Copic markers! Bright, bold colours and lots of glitter and glam are sure to invoke the holiday spirit. Along with this class Tobi has designed “Snow Much Fun” and they will be quick sell-outs. Copic experience is an asset but not a necessity, these classes are all about having fun!
Here comes Snow much Fun Cards $20. Can be registered online or by telephone (604) 514-2229
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This is the second class of a line-up of super cute Christmas and holiday cards that guarantee to bring a smile to your face. Come out and play with Whipper Snapper’s adorable stamps as well as Flower Soft, Glitter, and Copic markers. Come learn some of Tobi’s secret techniques for making “Wow-factor” cards and have a blast while doing it!. Copic experience an asset but not a necessity, these classes are all about having fun!
Please feel free to stop by and check out the class samples or the markers. At Clipper Street we are always here to assist you--whether it is simply by sharing some product information or assisting with your project. When deciding which pen to carry in the Store, we asked Copic which pen they recommended for Stampers, they said the Sketch Copic markers and those are the markers we carry. Thank you for visiting our Blog and we hope to see you soon! |
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