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I am tired of my pens drying out before I get a chance to really use them. I've tried several brands and I seem to have the same issue with most of them.
I have no interest in the fancy blending techniques most use Copics for, they seem nice enough but I'm just not that talented.
Does anyone else here use Copics for basic coloring just for the sake of having pens that don't dry out and can be refilled? I'm thinking of getting a "starter pack" with a coupon at Hobby Lobby, but even then they're a little pricey initially.
Any thoughts?
I sometimes use my Copics just for a solid area of colour without doing any blending or anything just because they're great for streak-free coverage which is not quite what you asked but kind of close! I do love the fact you can refill and I haven't had any issues with unused markers drying out.
What kind of colouring do you do with your markers? Will all the colours in a starter pack get used or might you be better considering open stock from somewhere? I'm on the wrong side of the Pond to recommend anywhere for you but there are lots of discussions here on SCS if you look. I think lots of people use Marker Pop or Dick Blick.
If I were buying Copics again I would buy them AGAIN from Oozak. Apparently you can use Michaels coupons etc as well https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbRNWjp70yk FANTASTIC customer service, I have had my markers the next day after ordering.
Now, that said, Copic may be overkill if you don't want to blend. What I like about Copics are their brush nibs and that they are refillable.
If I were buying now I would probably buy the new (make certain you get the new barrel as there are issues with the old barrel) Spectrum Noir markers. They are alcohol based and refillable and very affordable especially with a coupon. They have a bullet and chisel tip. I have been very impressed with the work I have seen with them. Oozak carries them as well. His prices put them at about $1.67 per marker. They are out of stock at the moment but I think you can be notified when they are back in stock. Rusty has just got back from vacation so is running about 3 days behind on orders. But I'm sure he will answer an email if you want to know when they are expecting their next shipment of them.
If I were buying now I would probably buy the new... Spectrum Noir markers.
This raises something in my mind - we all like different things so before you make a significant investment, you might do well to try a few different brands if you can. Like Kristen, I've seen lovely work done with the Spectrum Noir markers but I tried them when they came out and simply couldn't get along with them. If you don't have anywhere local or buddies with markers you can try, maybe see what's available online without spending too much? (I actually bought a few Copics and Trias in an eBay auction to try out when I first used these markers - there are some bargains if you're willing to wait for the right lot.)
The old barrel of the Spectrum Noir allowed the alcohol to evaporate and made them dry out and difficult to work with from what I have read. I definitely would find somewhere to test some if possible. And if buying from big box craft store make certain I bought the new barrels.
The old barrel of the Spectrum Noir allowed the alcohol to evaporate and made them dry out and difficult to work with from what I have read.
For me it was the nibs and barrel shape. I really should have anticpated it as I don't really like the Copic Originals either. I just don't find the square barrel comfortable to work with and I much, much prefer the brush nib to the chisel and bullet ones. But those are things you learn from the experience of using them rather than looking at work done with them or reading reviews, I guess - we're all different!
For me it was the nibs and barrel shape. I really should have anticpated it as I don't really like the Copic Originals either. I just don't find the square barrel comfortable to work with and I much, much prefer the brush nib to the chisel and bullet ones. But those are things you learn from the experience of using them rather than looking at work done with them or reading reviews, I guess - we're all different!
Totally get that! I was surprised that I love Ciaos over other sizes as I have a large hand (over an octave reach on a piano). I often wonder who designs some of these shapes and who tests the designs.
I often wonder who designs some of these shapes and who tests the designs.
Interesting thought! At a guess, mostly men (both design and testing) - the Copics market was originally graphic designers and all elements of design are pretty skewed gender-wise, I believe. Like you, I'm happiest with Ciao although my hands are smaller than yours by the sound of it (span of 8.25" thumb to little finger tip). Maybe it's partly familiarity? (they're closest in shape to the felt tips we used as kids!)
Sorry craftycarrie, we've digressed a bit! hope this is adding up to letting you know that there's no wrong/right here - there's just personal preference!
I agree with the ladies, I would try a few markers from different vendors or if you can try a Friends
On the subject of size never thought about it but you are right..and I had to measure my hand span lol, I only measure at 7" at a push from thumb to top of pinkie...maybe one thing on this old body of mine is small lol!
__________________ Encourage, Empower and Embrace
Last edited by jukie; 07-10-2014 at 09:51 AM..
Reason: spelling
My friends and I DO use the Copics for basic coloring. Sometimes we do shading, but not usually. I've had mine for about five years and have only had to replace a few colors...the ones I use most. I agree with a previous poster...if you decide to buy Copics, go with Oozak. Best price and very fast shipping. I've used my R29 and E34 for Santa and Rudolph many times over (at least 50 Whipper Snapper big designs) and have only had to replace them once. We prefer the Original style..square shape with fine tip/broad tip.
I use my copics for basic coloring. I have had bad luck with the Spectrum Noir markers being dried out when I first opened them. I have thrown several away, that were brand new.
Just a suggestion: I have a couple of sets of Sharpies and Bic Mark Its that I've had and been using for several years. They have not dried out, and you can do some nice coloring with them. You can usually find the bigger sets at Target, although I got mine at Sams.
I use them to color stamped images, and have some Copics to fill in for the pale pastels. That is my only complaint about the Sharpies and Bics - the colors are quite intense.
Here is a set of 36 Bics on Amazon for only $22.99:
Thank you all so much for the replies! I appreciate all of the input. After having all my stuff in storage for a long move process I have to replace a ton of pens and ink pads... again.
I know the Spectrums are cheaper and initially thought they would be the route to go, but since I doubt I'll do the blending techniques, and I think you have to buy a whole color family at a time, I figured at least the Copics can be bought individually.
I have a few more hours at work before heading home. Maybe I'll just get 1 Copic in a good color for now.
thanks again!!
Just a suggestion: I have a couple of sets of Sharpies and Bic Mark Its that I've had and been using for several years. They have not dried out, and you can do some nice coloring with them. You can usually find the bigger sets at Target, although I got mine at Sams.
I use them to color stamped images, and have some Copics to fill in for the pale pastels. That is my only complaint about the Sharpies and Bics - the colors are quite intense.
Here is a set of 36 Bics on Amazon for only $22.99:
The Back to School supplies are being put out in all the stores . I saw some great prices on Colored packs of Sharpies . I just got 2 packages of Black Fine Sharpies with 5 markers in each pack at Office Depot for $1 . That is 20 � per marker . :cool:
I used my Copics for solid coloring without shading when I originally bought them and I loved the way they color so smoothly with no streaks.
__________________ "I have not failed . I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work" --Thomas A. Edison
Thanks again! I ended up getting a multi-pack of Bic Mark-Its and a single Copic sketch (I think ordering online and shipping would have been quicker than waiting for someone to unlock the case!!).
Can't wait to play with them tonight.
are copics good if not using for blending?
