Hello Copic readers! In our previous blog, we introduced the acrea color range, the four 6 pc sets, and showed 4 ways you can use these new paint markers (on paper, on various other surfaces, with alcohol markers, and with alcohol ink). In today’s blog, we’ll be putting the marker to the paper by practicing how to color and layer with acrea. And with that, let’s get started by taking a look at the drawings below, each outlined with a 0.5 Cool Gray Multiliner pen!

We’ll be using these above abstract doodle illustrations to demonstrate the different ways you can layer, color, outline, and make marks with acrea. For each illustration, we’ll be using a different 6 pc set to show off the opacity and vibrancy within each set. Each doodle will also be colored in the Copic Square Sketchbook on Premium Bond Paper. This paper is not only suitable for coloring with Copic alcohol markers, but also with acrea and Multiliner pens. There is no bleed-through onto the next sheet of paper using any Copic product on this paper (except for Copic Ink, which requires a non-porous synthetic paper). 

First up, we have the 6 pc Light set, where we begin by coloring with the lightest color first to fill the largest shape in the background (which, in this case, is Cream Yellow), then add a gradually darker color (Custard Beige, and so on) until all 6 colors of the set have been used. Notice too how the artist is using the marker - by coloring left to right in a set of tight lines for each shape. This is a great technique for a right-handed artist to prevent any smudging while the ink dries (left-handed artists can work in the opposite, from right to left). 

The artist also varies the direction in which she is coloring each shape. Some shapes are colored vertically - like the orange rectangle, some horizontally - like the green triangle, and some diagonally - like the yellow organic shape in the background. By using a variety of angles in which to color, a more compelling composition is created.

Next, we have the 6 pc Vivid set, where the artist adds the darkest color first (Sky Blue) to fill the largest background shape. This is a perfect example of how the order of which you apply acrea does not matter since the ink is thick and opaque. If the ink is not appearing thick and opaque, then we recommend capping the marker and shaking it about 20 times to get the ink mixed inside the marker barrel. After shaking, pump the nib quickly about 2-3 times on a scrap sheet of paper and make sure the ink flow is even. After these two steps, the marker ink should be thick and opaque, ready for use. 

It is important to note too that in this illustration, the artist has waited for the ink to dry completely before layering another acrea color on top of it. This is important to ensure that the lighter colors have more contrast as they are being layered on top of the darker ones, and to avoid any stains or color contamination on the marker nibs.

In this third illustration, we have the 6 pc Deep set, where the artist has once again started with the darkest color first (Indigo Blue). Even with this dark, rich color, layering lighter colors on top is easy! Color in opposite directions like we mentioned in the Light set (the first video), and be patient, allowing for the ink to dry before layering different colors. The narrow 0.8mm acrea nib handles differently than the Super Brush nib and alcohol markers in general, so be patient as you try this new nib and opaque ink!

Finally, we have the 6 pc Essentials set, where the highlights of this new product are easily seen in colors like Rich Black, Snow White, Gold and Silver. These essential colors are excellent companions to use with Copic alcohol markers and Copic Ink. Since these colors are so opaque, you’ll be able to add highlights and outlines to your drawings and paintings like never before! 

In addition, the Sepia and Cool Gray colors are a great outlining tool for small paintings, journaling and lettering. All of the colors in the Essentials set are a great way to get started with acrea simply for their function and versatility.

Above left: acrea Snow White used with Copic Sketch and Ciao markers. Above right: acrea Gold used with Copic Ink BV29. 

And with that, we wrap up today’s blog! To give each of these doodles a try yourself, download the blank template here in our line art gallery and print it on a thick sheet of cardstock suitable for layering (we recommend Neenah Bright White Premium Cardstock 65 lb. or Neenah Exact Premium Cardstock 110 lb.). Then, try the layering lessons we mentioned in today’s blog by working from the lightest to the darkest color, or from the darkest to the lightest, as well as practicing different angles of coloring and ways to make marks. 

Until next time, don’t forget to follow us across our social media channels @copic_official_us, and sign up for exclusive discounts and prizes by joining the Copic Club! One last thing - use #copicwithus or tag us @copic_official_us for a chance to have your drawings or workspace featured on our Copic US social media channels.

Thank you so much for reading and enjoying Copic markers as much as we do! 😀