How to Use Copic Acrea

01 - 07 - 2025

#acrea

#beginner

#product

#specs

#tutorial

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Happy New Year Copic readers! In our previous blog, we wrapped up our discussion on how to use Acrea on various weights and types of papers. In today’s blog, we are going to discuss the very basics of acrea: how to use these new opaque paint markers. And with that, let’s get started by watching the video below!

As you can see, acrea is different compared to the other Copic markers. Acrea ink is made of opaque, water-based pigment, a paint marker, which is why shaking the pen about 20 times before use is required. The small ball you’ll hear moving around inside the maker is working to mix the pigment, making sure it applies evenly to whatever surface you’ll be using it on.

Once you uncap the marker, press the nib down on a scrap piece of paper 3 or 4 times, and then wait about 20 seconds or so for the ink to start moving down the marker barrel and into the nib. Repeat this process a few more times, until the ink has completely filled the nib. At this point, the marker is ready to be used!

After use, snap the cap back on the marker and store either horizontally or vertically. Since the marker will need to be shaken before each use, it doesn’t matter as much how acrea is stored in comparison to Copic alcohol-based markers (which should be stored horizontally to ensure the ink doesn’t concentrate on one side or marker nib over the other).

Top left: acrea and Copic Ink in a 36 pc wallet. Top right: acrea in an office supply pen cup. Bottom: acrea in marker/pen stackable trays

As seen above, you can store your acrea markers alongside other Copic products in a Copic wallet (albeit, acrea has a smaller circumference than the Copic alcohol-based markers so they won’t fit as snug), use a simple cup or desk caddy, or choose a horizontal option by using a marker tray. Use whatever works with your desk space and makes your creative process easier! Just be sure to shake the acrea marker at least 15-20 times each time before use to ensure an even ink flow and have a piece of scrap paper nearby to pump the nib in case the ink has dried and it needs reactivating.

And with that, we wrap up today’s blog! For more information on the basics of Copic acrea, please download the above PDF, which includes not only the “how-to” steps introduced today, but also a complete acrea color chart and some different ways you can use them.

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, #acreawithus, 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! 😀

01 - 07 - 2025