Copic FAQ Part 3: What Inks Can Be Used With Copic Markers?

This post is part three of a three part FAQ regarding Copic Markers.  Here are parts one and part two.

One of the most important and frequently asked questions about coloring with Copic markers is:  “What kind of ink should I use to stamp with when coloring with Copic markers?” 

Copics markers use dye ink and are alcohol based, and because of this it is important that you stamp with a compatible ink.

Here is a list of  recommended inks to use with Copic Markers:

• Tsukineko’s Memento Inks:  This is the most widely recognized and favorite ink used by stampers who color with copics.  Memento dye will not smear or bleed when used with Copics.  It also dries instantly upon stamping so you can color immediately without heat setting your stamped image.
• My Favorite Things Hybrid Ink:  This is a new line of inks and are quickly becoming a frequently used ink for copic coloring.  Unfortunately this ink has had mixed reviews depending on who you ask, so it appears to be a personal preference.  Personally, I purchased this ink and STRONGLY disliked the way it stamped. It never stamped crisp or clean or solid for me.  However, some stampers swear by it so you I recommend trying it for yourself and decide if it is an ink you’d like to use.
• Tsukineko’s Brilliance Ink:  This ink is a pigment ink so it needs to either be heat set with your heat tool or needs to sit and dry for about an hour before coloring.  Once it is dry and/or heat set, it will stamp crisp and clean and will not smear or bleed when coloring with Copics.  I’ve tried this and ink and it stamps extremely nicely but I am not patient enough to wait for it to dry and don’t want to have to heat set it before coloring when my favorite ink will work instantly.
• Ranger’s Adirondack Ink:  This is a another ink that will stamp and work well but needs to either be heat set or or have time to dry before coloring.   I have not personally tried this ink so I have no opinion on it.
• Amuse Studio Inks – Although I’ve not tried these inks, I’m told (Thanks to my reader Fran Gibson for sending in this tip! ) that you can use any of the Amuse Studio pigment inks with copic markers.  Since they are pigment, they will need more time to dry or will need to be heat set with your heat/embossing tool.

Also, please note that solvent inks such as Stampin’ Up and StazOn should NOT be used with Copic markers.

Next Up:

• COPIC FAQ Part One:  Copic Marker FAQ’s for Beginners Part 1 & Kat’s Favorite Copic Color Combinations
• COPIC FAQ Part Two:  Copic MArker FAQ’s for Beginners Part 2:  What is the Best Cardstock to Use with Copic Markers?