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I've been reading a lot about Copic markers and have read a lot of threads on them. Can you tell me which you prefer - Ciao, Sketch, or Original - and why? I know the differences regarding the air brush system, refilling, nubs, etc. But what are people using? Which type do you prefer and why?
I've only used Sketch and Original so can't comment on the Ciao. I love the brush nib on the Sketch pens, it's really very flexible and delivers the ink beautifully. With practice, you can get a light enough touch that you can do very fine detail with it (or use more rigid edge of the chisel nib if you prefer). I think the Ciao sketch nib is the same but I'm not sure - having use the Original as well though, I'd always pick the pen with the brush nib.
I was between Ciao and Sketch I finally deceided on the sketch because of the color code being on the ends of the barrels and the larger color choices although I will never buy all 344 colors. I found them at carpediemstore.com for $3.95 ea on sale a few weeks ago. You have to put them in your cart to see the finally price. They also hade super fast shipping!
The sketch and ciao are the same nibs, just a different shape. The sketch is bigger so it costs a little more.
For me, I started with the Ciaos because of the price and I never thought I'd need more than the 144 colors they come in. HOWEVER, not too long after I got my set, I realized there were color gaps that I wanted to fill. So I was forced to buy Sketch markers to fill those gaps.
Another big difference is that the Sketch markers have the numbers on the caps so it's really easy to find what you're looking for. With the Ciaos, you can kind of guess colors from the coloring on the caps, but to make sure, you need to look at the numbers on the barrels.
Also, you can use the Ciaos in the airbrush system, but have to do a little modifying. So if I want to use the sketch in the airbrush, I have to take out the foam tape and it's a bit of a hassle to modify and undo everytime I want to switch marker types.
If I had to do it over again, I'd probably just start with the Sketch, but that's totally just me.
I totally agree with Maureen. If I could sell my Ciao's for close to the price I paid I would buy all Sketch. I know, though, that a lot of people love the Ciao's and don't mind the number/name not being on the end but for me it is an easy find.
Thanks, Jodi
One other nice thing I've seen others mention about the Sketch markers is that they have a sort of rounded rectangular barrel so they don't roll (off the table, etc). Plus I like the color range.
I really think you have to hold and try the different styles out yourself to decide which are best for you. The Ciao have a round barrel, the Sketch an oval barrel, and the Original a square barrel. Plus, as you mentioned, they have differences in color availability and nibs, etc.
I use the Originals because I like the small nib option. There aren't as many colors available, so when there is a color that I *have* to have, I get it in the sketch. I also like the square shape of the barrel, but some people may not like how large they are.
I started out with Sketch and most of mine are those...I have been filling in lately with Ciao's however. Having the number on the end is definitely quicker when looking for a specific color, but really not that big of deal to me. The only ones that I don't think I would like is the Originals...I think those are the square ones, right? I would think they would be a bit awkward to hold on to, but have never actually tried them.
I have to add that I did find a great storage solution though. I bought one of those restaurant style sliverware holders with the individual cylinders. They sit at just the right angle for easy viewing. Love it!
I have to add that I did find a great storage solution though. I bought one of those restaurant style sliverware holders with the individual cylinders. They sit at just the right angle for easy viewing. Love it!
What a brilliant idea! Where did you get it? I think I might have a place in mind. Thanks so much for sharing.
Jodi
What a brilliant idea! Where did you get it? I think I might have a place in mind. Thanks so much for sharing.
Jodi
I actually purchased mine off of Ebay...if you happen to have a restaurant supply place near you, you could probably just go there. I purchased the 6-cylnder...it will hold A LOT of copics...probably more than I will purchase. I believe they make smaller ones too!
I prefer the oval barrel & nibs of the Sketch. I started out with the Ciao (same nibs) but then fell in love with airbrushing and the Ciaos always rolling off my table irritated me, so I switched! Plus, the availability of ALL the Copic colors with Sketch is a big plus.
I love the numbering system on the ends of the barrels, too, and when trying to keep them in some kind of order in the plastic cases drove me nuts, I switched to this storage (photo below). Now I just use a chart to select what colors I want to work with and then take them out of my cabinet. Clean up is a breeze -- just throw them back in their color family cubicle!
ETA: Blank color chart for all Copic colors available for download here: Copic Color Chart.
Thought I would add a picture of my storage also, so you can get a better idea...also wanted to add that printed the Copic Color Chart that StamperSharon has posted...it is a lifesaver. I used to have a piece of scrap paper that I would always "test" my colors on before using (I don't feel the lids are that accurate). Wow, I am sure that I wasted a ton of ink doing that. Anyhoo, I printed it on cardstock, colored in the squares, slipped it into a page protector and work with it right in front of me...love it~
Thought I would add a picture of my storage also, so you can get a better idea...also wanted to add that printed the Copic Color Chart that StamperSharon has posted...it is a lifesaver. I used to have a piece of scrap paper that I would always "test" my colors on before using (I don't feel the lids are that accurate). Wow, I am sure that I wasted a ton of ink doing that. Anyhoo, I printed it on cardstock, colored in the squares, slipped it into a page protector and work with it right in front of me...love it~
Thanks for that info. What are your stickles in? That looks like a cool storage thing too?
StamperSharon-Where did you get that form? I have one but it is pages long-I like the idea of it all being on one page! Thanks.
What are your stickles in? That looks like a cool storage thing too?
LOL, gotta love the Target $1 section. This little plastic container actually had a lid so I took it off. It has all the individual departments...it is probably supposed to be for storing beads, jewelery, etc...but this works for me. I like storing the Stickles upside down. Of course, I should have bought two, duh ;) !
I'm happy to have any Copics & I do like the Ciao's a lot, but I know eventually I will have to branch out to Sketches because I inevitably will *need* a color only available in the Sketch.
I have both, because my Hobby Lobby only sells Sketch, but online I've bought Ciao. One thing I'll say is that you don't need the refill kit to refill them. I did about 6 of them the other day, and it was SO easy!! And the refills last forever. Most of my SU markers (and note that I love the colors) seem dry. I love how my Copics always seem juicy!
I have both Sketch and Original markers and if I could afford it, I would have the same colours in both type of markers. The Originals are great for those small areas. They have a smaller nib, so it's easier to colour in the small spaces. The Sketch markers are great for the larger areas as it's just like using a paint brush. I wish I could win the Lottery, because I know what I would do with some of the money!!
Thought I would add a picture of my storage also, so you can get a better idea...also wanted to add that printed the Copic Color Chart that StamperSharon has posted...it is a lifesaver. I used to have a piece of scrap paper that I would always "test" my colors on before using (I don't feel the lids are that accurate). Wow, I am sure that I wasted a ton of ink doing that. Anyhoo, I printed it on cardstock, colored in the squares, slipped it into a page protector and work with it right in front of me...love it~
COPIC Markers - Which do you prefer and why?
