A new line of markers at PE are the Copic Markers.  These markers are quite amazing and so fun to work with.  Here are a few pointers and answers to FAQ so you can get the most out of your markers.

Why is PE carrying the original Copic Marker instead of the Sketch Marker?
To give you the best value for your money.  The original Copic Marker has the largest barrel, so while initially a little more expensive, it gives you the most ink and the best value for your money. Also, it has a fine nib which is great for colouring tiny stamps and images, and has the most other nibs(9) that can be put on including a brush nib which is great for colouring.  The sketch markers come with a brush nib, but don't have the option of the fine nib. The original Copic is airbrush compatible.

Why are the markers unique?
They are refillable making them environmentally friendly ( a refill will fill your pen 8-12 times!), they dry acid free, won't pill your paper, have an alcohol ink in them which means they can be layered and blended and are waterproof. And even though they are double tipped, you can store them either horizontally or vertically without worrying about one end drying out. They can also be used on so many surfaces such as fabric, ribbon, buttons, acetate, metal and so much more. The pen nibs (which you can replace with different types) are very durable and you can squish them very hard and not ruin them.

What do the numbers and letters on the markers mean?
The letters refer to the colour family the marker belongs to - B = Blue, BG = Blue Green etc. The numbers refer to a pantone colouring  system and describe the qualities of light, dark and grey colours in the marker. The first colour is the saturation - how vibrant the marker is with 0's being the most vibrant down to the 9's which will be the dullest/greyest. The last number tells how light that marker is within the saturation group.

How do I pick colours that will blend together?
Pick markers with the same first letter and first number. Then start with the lowest number you want to start with and pick higher numbers that are 2-3 (sometimes up to 4 or 5) numbers away. Always start using your lightest colour first.  Pick at least 2 of each colour, preferably 3 to get the best blending results. For example BG10, BG13, BG15. Watch for "PE Essentials" that will be coming with our next order mid November - 3 essential combos for each colour grouping making it very easy for you to shop for colours.  There will also be 4 Essential 12 sets of pens covering the Essential "go to" colours for each of the main groups.

What paper and Ink do I use with the markers?
Use a dye ink, not an alchohol based ink.  The markers don't work well with Staz on. Memento inks work very well with the Copics and will be arriving at PE in the next week or two. The markers work best on a heavy smooth paper (not typical cardstock) and you will find white 8.5x11 sheets of this at PE next to the markers.  Cut it up to whatever size you need.  Always use a white scratch paper under your working paper, as the pens will bleed through to the other side.  Make sure you change this paper regularly or the colours underneath will be picked up onto your working paper.

What is a blender pen?
A blender pen would seem to be to blend the colours together, but it isn't.  Think of it more as an "eraser" - it removes colour. It picks up the colour so use it to "erase" where you coloured outside the line, or to lighten an area you coloured.

How Do I keep track of Which Colours I own?

Use this handy Copic Chart to colour with your markers and bring it shopping with you.

Remember that practice makes perfect, and with a little practice you will soon be colouring like the pros!  Watch for some fun demos and classes on these markers in November.