Best Alcohol Markers of 2023

Looking for the best alcohol markers for your next project? In this round-up, we review the 6 best alcohol markers you can buy today in 2023. We'll also cover important factors to consider when buying alcohol markers such as colour options and ink quality. Whether you are a professional artist or just starting out, this guide will help you find the perfect alcohol markers to take your artwork to the next level. So, let's dive in and find the right markers for you!

What are Alcohol Markers?

Alcohol markers are a type of marker that uses alcohol-based ink. The ink is usually blended with dye and is fast-drying, water-resistant, and non-toxic. Alcohol markers are used for colouring, illustrating, and graphic design, and are popular among artists, designers, and illustrators. They are often used in combination with other mediums such as pencils, pens, and paint. The most well-known brands of alcohol markers are Copic, Prismacolor, and Letraset.

Best Alcohol Markers

COPIC CLASSIC MARKERS

Product Description

Copic Markers are renowned worldwide for their superior quality. Invest in a set and enjoy truly long-lasting art supplies – markers that not only provide you with years of creative potential but also come backed by a 3-year shelf life warranty. Unlike water-based pens, Copic's alcohol-based ink won't damage paper fibres yet glides on smoothly, making it simple to blend colours together or create broad strokes with the chisel tip nibs. No matter which colour you choose from the 358 available hues, each marker is hand-tested so your artwork can always rely on perfect consistency as well as lasting vibrancy!

Copic Markers are a popular choice among many different professionals. From comic illustrators to fashion designers, this versatile tool offers something for everyone. With an array of colours and types available, you'll find everything from non-toxic shades to the Colourless Blender - plus an empty marker which can be filled with any ink in the range! And don't forget about Copic's Airbrush System for hassle-free large area colouring and high gloss sheen finishes.

Benefits

• High-quality, world-famous alcohol markers
• Ink applied smoothly, easy to blend and won't destroy paper fibres
• Guaranteed 3-year shelf life with unique, flexible super brush nib for paint-like application, and a chisel tip for broad or fine lines
• Popular with comic artists, graphic designers, architects, product designers, calligraphers, scrapbookers etc. Non-toxic and can be used with Copic Airbrush System for covering large areas and a flawless, glossy finish

Specifications

• Available Colours: 358 colours
• Ink Quality: Non-Toxic ink

COPIC SKETCH MARKERS

Product Description

Copic Sketch Markers offer art lovers an array of possibilities! With a brush nib and broad nib on each marker, you can easily create anything from delicate lines to distinct fades. Plus, they dry quickly with no fuss – utterly non-toxic stationery that won't run when exposed to toner. The range includes 346 vibrant shades too - so let your creative side loose; the limit is up to you! You have the option of buying sets or individual markers as well - offering endless effects in one product line.

Benefits

• Two versatile tips to produce a range of strokes from fine lines to wide colour fills
• Available as individual colours or in sets

Specifications

• Sets & Packs: Available as individual colours or in sets
• Available Colours: 346 colours
• Specifications: Non-toxic ink

COPIC CIAO MARKERS

Product Description

Copic Ciao markers provide the perfect entry into the world of artistic expression. Their round, solid polypropylene barrel gives artists optimal control and comfort while providing a durable broad-tip design similar to that of a paintbrush. Perfect for use on paper, leather, wood, fabric plastic and faux fur – Copic Ciao Markers are also safe enough for children with their inner seal and choke-proof vents!

Copic Ciao markers are a must-have for all budding artists looking to take their creativity and artwork to the next level. With 180 distinct shades, you can mix up your colour palette with selection sets or purchase individual items - giving limitless possibilities when it comes to adding depth, dimension and shadow effects!

Benefits

• Round and smooth polypropylene barrel for a perfect and controllable grip
• A durable and broad polyester tip acts like a paintbrush for variable-width strokes
• Non-toxic ink with high-quality dyes to create vibrant and intense colours

Specifications

• Available Colours: 180 colours
• Ink Amount / Refill: Can be refilled with any ink from the range
• Specifications: Non-toxic ink

KENT SPECTRA DUAL TIP MARKERS

Product Description

Kent Spectra Dual Tip Markers are perfect for allowing creative expression. Both brush and chisel tips allow precision application of 59 vibrant colours plus a colourless blender - meeting the highest quality standards with alcohol-based markers that blend seamlessly together. Professional or aspiring artists, graphic designers and students alike can rely on these markers to create stunning illustrations, renderings, artworks and more.

Benefits

• Brush tip for working on fine details
• The chisel tip creates broad strokes to cover large areas quickly
• Ideal for artists and students, suitable for illustration, graphic design, rendering and more

Specifications

• Form: Two tips, brush and chisel
• Available Colours: 59 colours plus a colourless blender
• Specifications: Non-toxic ink

WINSOR & NEWTON BRUSHMARKERS

Product Description

The Winsor & Newton Brush marker range features two unique nibs, allowing artists to produce an array of creative works! The broad chisel tips and brush tips are perfect for large coverage and creating a wide range of brush stroke effects respectively, while the fast-drying ink with its translucent quality can be used on plastic or metal surfaces. Why not use this product in tandem with the Promarker collection - mix them together for spectacular results!

Benefits

• High-quality alcohol-based marker with dual nibs
• Brush nib for creating a wide range of brush stroke effects
• Broad chisel nib for large coverage
• Fast-drying ink with a translucent quality, suitable on surfaces including plastic and metal
• Compatible with Winsor & Newton Promarker range

Specifications

• Form: Dual nibs, brush and chisel
• Available Colours: 72 colours
• Specifications: Non-toxic ink

WINSOR & NEWTON PROMARKERS

Product Description

Winsor & Newton ProMarker is the perfect tool for professional illustrators and designers to bring their creative vision to life. Similarly, with Winsor & Newton Brush markers, the Promarkers are equipped with a fine bullet nib that provides high-precision detail as well as an ultra-broad chisel nib for larger coverage areas. Its alcohol-based ink dries quickly and has no limits when it comes to surfaces: from paper, plastic or metal, your artwork will shine through any material of choice. Plus you get even more options by using Winsor & Newton's Brushmarkers in tandem!

Benefits

• Alcohol-based twin tip marker
• Dual inbuilt high-quality nibs: fine bullet for precision drawing and broad chisel for large coverage
• Fast-drying ink with a translucent quality, suitable on surfaces including plastic and metal
• Compatible with Winsor & Newton Brush marker range

Specifications

• Available Colours: 148 colours
• Specifications: Non-toxic ink

Things To Consider Before Buying Alcohol Markers

When buying alcohol markers, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you get the best markers for your needs:

1. Colour range: Consider the number of colours available in the set of markers you're considering. Some sets come with a limited number of colours, while others have a wide range of hues to choose from.
2. Pigment quality: The quality of the pigment will affect the vibrancy and longevity of the colours. Look for markers that have highly pigmented ink for more vibrant and long-lasting results.
3. Easy to blend: Consider how well the markers blend together. Some markers are designed to be easier to blend than others, which can be useful for creating smooth gradations and fine details.
4. Tip size: Alcohol markers come with different tip sizes, from fine to broad, to determine the size of the tip that you need for your artwork.
5. Durability: Consider the overall quality of the markers, and how well they will hold up over time.
6. Brand reputation: Research the brand of markers you're considering and read reviews from other artists to get an idea of their performance and quality.
7. Cost: Determine your budget and compare the prices of different brands and sets. Keep in mind that high-quality markers can be more expensive, but they will often last longer and produce better results.
8. By considering these factors, you can find the best alcohol markers that will suit your artistic needs, preferences and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best alcohol markers for professional artists?

Many professional artists prefer using high-end alcohol markers such as Copic, Prismacolor Premier, Winsor & Newton Promarkers, Letraset ProMarker, and Chameleon pens due to their high-quality pigments, blend-ability and colour range.

What are the best alcohol markers for beginners?

For beginners, alcohol markers from brands like Bistro, Touch, and Tombow Dual Brush are a great option as they are affordable and easy to use, while still providing good quality results.

Are alcohol markers better than other types of markers?

Alcohol markers are a great option for many types of art and illustration, but they may not be the best choice for every project. They are preferred by many artists because of their blendability, rich colours and fast-drying properties. However, they may not be ideal for certain types of surfaces and they are not water-colourable.

How long do alcohol markers last?

The lifespan of alcohol markers can vary depending on the brand and quality of the markers. Generally, high-end markers with high-quality pigments last longer than cheaper markers. On average, alcohol markers can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months, or even more when stored properly.

Can alcohol markers be used on fabric?

Yes, alcohol markers can be used on fabric, but it's important to use a fabric medium to avoid any bleeding or fading. Also, it's important to test a small area before applying the markers to the final piece.

Are alcohol markers toxic?

Most alcohol markers are non-toxic, but it's always a good idea to read the label and check the manufacturer's website for information on the specific markers you're considering.

Quick alcohol marker tips

1. Always shake the marker before use to ensure the ink is evenly mixed.
2. Test the markers on a separate sheet of paper before using them on your final piece.
3. Use a blending solution or a blending pen to create smooth colour transitions.
4. Use a colourless blender marker to lighten or soften the colours.
5. Use a paper that is specifically designed for use with alcohol markers, such as marker paper, Bristol board or watercolour paper.
6. Be mindful of the pressure you apply when colouring to avoid bleeding through the paper.
7. Use a light touch when colouring to avoid saturating the paper.
8. Store markers horizontally to prevent the ink from settling at the bottom of the marker.
9. Use a pencil or pen to sketch out your design before colouring to avoid mistakes.
10. Always use a fixative spray to prevent smudging or smearing after the artwork is completed.
11. Clean the marker tips with a rubber tip stopper or a special cleaner to keep them in good condition.
12. Don’t forget to take breaks and stretch your hand to avoid cramps and hand fatigue.

In conclusion, there are many different brands and types of alcohol markers available on the market, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Every marker has its own set of features and qualities that make them suitable for different types of art and illustration. When choosing markers, it's important to consider factors such as colour range, pigment quality, blendability, tip size, durability, brand reputation, and cost. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best alcohol markers that will suit your artistic needs, preferences, and budget.