How to Layer with Acrea on Various Types of Paper

Hello Copic readers! In our previous blog, we wrapped up our discussion on how to use Acrea with the Copic signature products: Sketch, Ciao, and Classic markers, Multiliner pens, and Copic Ink. In today’s blog, we are going to turn the focus back on Acrea alone, exploring the wide world of PAPER, and giving you feedback on the best papers to use with these water-based paint pens. And with that, let’s get started by taking a look at the table below!

 *The above chart is an overview of just a few different paper brands, weights, colors, and sizes. There are many other paper brands out there to explore, do not feel limited by this list!

Examples of Acrea on various types of paper. 1st paper: 58 lb. Copic Premium Bond Sketchbook.

2nd paper: 50.5 lb. Strathmore 400 Series Marker paper. 3rd paper: 110 lb. Neenah Premium Cardstock.

4th paper: 140 lb. Fluid Hot Press Watercolor paper. 5th paper: 95 lb. Hahnemuhle gray watercolor sketchpad.

When using Acrea, what kind of paper should I use? Even though this is a simple question, in order to answer it, you need to consider a few things first.

1. Do you plan on using Acrea with any other materials?
2. What size sheet of paper are you most comfortable with?
3. Do you prefer to work with bright white paper, off-white, toned, or colored?

With just these few simple questions to get started, it will help tremendously to help narrow down what paper to choose! When it comes to paper choices, a lot of it boils down to personal preference. If you’re unsure of what paper you like best, we recommend starting off with a small sketchbook or notepad in order to test it out before buying a large size or quantity.

Next, let’s talk about layering! Since Acrea is a water-based paint pen, you CAN layer it; however, it will not layer like a traditional Copic Sketch or Ciao. The Acrea nib is a hard, stiff nib that allows for a consistent, smooth line of color to disperse from the pen. Line variation is possible though, depending on how lightly you press the pen to the page.

As seen in the above examples, when you’re layering with Acrea, wait and make sure that the first layer is completely dry before adding another layer - especially if you are adding a lighter color on top. Only a few seconds are required for the ink to fully dry. If the ink has not completely settled, the colors will blend together, as seen in the small circles in the image above. The Custard Beige color (applied first) blended with the Dark Rose color (applied second). The nibs were not damaged, however, there is a possibility it could become clogged with an overwhelming amount of pigment placed on it.

If this happens, simply use a scrap sheet of paper and scribble the stained nib on this sheet until the color returns back to its original. Or, using a clean cloth with a little bit of water, wipe the nib clean of the excess color.

*Remember, Acrea ink has water-based ink; so to clean it, use water.
For Copic Sketch, Ciao, and Classic, use the 0 Colorless Blender or regular isopropyl alcohol since these markers are alcohol-based.

Want to test out layering with Acrea paint pens yourself? Print the above template here in our line art gallery on a sheet of your preferred paper or cardstock and follow the simple instructions on the sheet! Try out using Acrea by itself, as well as how it can be layered on top of regular Copic markers.

*In the time lapse video above, I’m coloring on Neenah Exact Index Premium Cardstock, 110 lb. paper. It’s my go-to for printing coloring line art and coloring sheets using my home printer.
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