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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Barb in kazoo says
I like the quick recap at the end if the post. I’ll be back to watch the video after work!
Robin Milne says
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.
Angela says
Thanks for the excellent review.!
Melissa says
I’m so glad I found this site! Thanks for your reviews and explanations, It is really a huge help.