There are so many brands of alcohol markers on the scene now- it’s hard to know which ones are the “best” for you! So I took to Periscope and did an epic 1 1/2 hour live demo to test out some of the major brands- Copic, Spectrum Noir, Prismacolor, Letraset ProMarkers, and even Faber-Castell Pitt Markers, (Yeah, I know those aren’t really alcohol markers, but what the heck!
(disclosure: some links below may be affiliate links.)
Today I’m looking at (Links to to product reviews)
First, let’s review a few facts on alcohol markers:
- Good blending
- Won’t “pill” paper
- Won’t wrinkle paper (no water content)
- BLEEDS THROUGH- so watch the layer underneath
- Blends with blending markers, alcohol blending solution and/or rubbing alcohol
- Good on non-porous surfaces like Yupo, plastic, and metal
- Best results on very smooth papers.
So now back to our demo! I edited down from 90 minutes to TWENTY- now, that’s still pretty long, but you’ll get to see all of the swatching and demos on our three surfaces: Heavy Cardstock, Yupo, and Glossy Photo Paper.
Take a look:
So here’s few reference lists:
REFILLABLE: Copic, Spectrum Noir.
Keep in mind that most average crafters will not need to refill markers and the cost of the actual ink may be greater than buying a new marker.
BRUSH TIPS: Copic, Letreaset, Chameleon, Pitt
FINE WRITING TIPS: Prismacolor, Letraset, Chameleon, Spectrum Noir.
CHISEL TIPS: Prismacolor, Letraset, Copic, Spectrum Noir
“STINKY” ODOR: All give off a stinky smell if put near the nose. But at 18′ inches away, all have just a slight smell.
BEST CAP IDENTIFICATIONS: Letraset
My takeaways:
- TOO MUCH: Copics are the most expensive, but they have the most colors- almost 400! You can also refill them and they are the darlings of the craft world right now. BUT I’m still put off by the high price point.
- NOT ENOUGH: Spectrum Noirs are very reasonable- but I’m not impressed with the colors and am downright put off by the barrel design AND the weird color separating.
- JUST RIGHT: Prismacolors are a well-respected brand, great color purity, and a decent price point. They are the recommended marker for art students and illustrators for a reason! I
But as always, MAKE YOUR OWN DECISION. Only YOU know what the right marker is for your needs- and I hope this video and comparison helps you make the best choice.
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I like the quick recap at the end if the post. I’ll be back to watch the video after work!
I bought the large set of Prismacolors in high school about 1985. I used them in art school and saved them. In 2010 I gave them to my daughter. Only 10 out of 140 were dry. She is now using them in art school. Highly recommend.
Thanks for the excellent review.!
I’m so glad I found this site! Thanks for your reviews and explanations, It is really a huge help.