Copic Markers - In depth view at Copic

Copic markers are one of a kind markers used by artists and illustrators all over the world. They have gained a special kind of popularity over the years among creatives. Introduced by a Japanese company named Copic back in 1987.

A brief run through history shows us the humble origins of the markers were for the manga culture with a few colors available, 71 colors initially and then 144 expanding the range with more colors added every iteration. As of now there is around 358 permanent, non-toxic, alcohol-based ink colors.

Copic markers are unique in a way that they have refillable cartridges which allow you to refill the market when one is run out. These refills can be brought separately from either the copic website directly or a local arts supply store, although it is slightly more difficult to find in most stores. There is a smooth and watercolor like experience using the copic markers. The quality of work is quiet unmatched, at least in the marker space. These combinations of refillable cartridges and smooth unmatched quality of work give these markers quiet a steep price tag.

However, the price tag is justified by the simple fact that these pens are refillable, meaning you can purchase a few extra cartridges for the pens instead of having to buy new ones every time. Now I don’t know about you but I run through a few of these a month but the investment for someone in this field is never in vain.

Copic Classic

• Classics are the first of it’s kind

• Most customizable set that offers 9 different nibs

• Includes classic original and empty markers that allow you to build the color as per your choice using various ink

• 214 colors including colorless blender

• Alcohol based ink

• 2 sided - Broad and fine nib

• Compatible with airbrushing system

Copic classics are Lesser used compared to copic sketch. This range of the marker would be between ciao and sketch. It seems to have a wider shade range compared to the ciao but less than the sketch.

Dual sided with nibs that are unique with a standard broad and standard fine tip. The standard broad is very similar to the medium broad on the other markers, slightly bigger in size but results in same firmness. The standard fine nib is more rounded and smaller and used for detailed work. The classic is less suitable for blending however it is the most versatile marker since it can be customized with multiple nibs available.

Largest in size of this lot and can be refilled over nine times.

Copic Sketch

• Most popular and widely used

• Medium broad and flexible super brush, ideal for illustrations, craft caricatures etc

• Refillable with Various ink

• 358 shads including colorless blender

• Oval barrel

• Empty marker available

• Compatible with aribrushing

• Available individual and in sets of 3/6/12/24/36/72

Sketch is a versatile collection. The unique shape of the marker gives it a solid grip, the wide shade range allows extensive detailing to achieve realism making it great for shading. The flexible super brush nib allows non streaky and clean finish on both small and wide areas also controlled results, the medium broad provides defined coloring.

These ones last much longer, since they can be refilled up to 12 times. ( varies from person to person, but average use personally achieved was 12 )

Copic Wide

• 36 colors including blender

• 3/4 nib

• Flat - ovular barrel

These markers are the most distinctive of the collection due to its shape - one sided wide chiseled tip is for very specific use. These have a very limited color selection, 36 colors to be specific. However they cover the most integral colors from the color wheel, so you’re not missing out too much.

The width of the nib allows a quicker run over a broad area naturally using more ink over less time compared to the other markers. Wide markers are flat barreled with an ovular orientation which makes the gripping slightly uncomfortable.

In conclusion it may not be a primary choice of marker but is a good addition to the collection and gives great results when used with the other sets.

Copic Ciao

• Most economical from the collection

• Shade range of 180

• Can be refilled up to 15 times

Definitely the most economical of the four. These are smaller in size and dont have the same shade range as the others. However it is a good entry level choice and still a much better option compared to a lot of standard stationary marker brands in the market.

These come with the same medium broad and super brush tips as earlier. Ciao overall is circular and sleek which is a decent grip for use. On the flip side,  could be a hassle when you are keeping them on a table or a flat surface between switching markers because they tend to roll.

Holds the least amount of ink compared to the other markers in the collection, can be refilled up to 15 times before running out

Great markers to begin with, if you are someone new to using markers as a medium.