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Alcohol markers are one of my favorite tools for bold, smooth color. They behave differently than water based markers or colored pencil, but once you understand how they work, they open up a fast and satisfying way to build depth and contrast. If you enjoyed working with alcohol markers and would like to continue at home, here are the tools we used in class along with a few I personally recommend. This page covers what alcohol markers are, how they’re used in practice, and the supplies I recommend if you’re getting started. Feel free to download this free coloring sheet, courtesy of MAKEatBUBBLY to try new techniques and materials.
ALCOHOL MARKERS are filled with dye-based ink suspended in alcohol rather than water. This allows the color to
Layer without streaking
Create strong, saturated color that can look soft or graphic
Lay down smoothly
Blend while still wet
Provide even coverage with no brush texture
Smooth blends and gradients
Most alcohol markers come with two tips on opposite ends. That may include a brush, bullet, or fine tip - typically with a chisel tip on the opposite end.
Chisel Tip
Firm, angled edge.
Good for filling larger areas quickly and creating clean graphic edges.
Brush Tip
Flexible and slightly soft.
Best for blending, curved shapes, and more controlled application.
This is what I reach for most often.
Fine Tip
Smaller and more precise than a bullet tip.
Useful for detailed illustration, lettering accents, and tiny areas.
Bullet Tip
Firm and rounded.
Good for small details, outlining, and controlled color in tight spaces.
Less flexible than a brush tip, but very predictable.
ALCOHOL MARKER RECOMMENDATIONS
There are many alcohol marker brands available, and you don’t need the largest set to get started. A thoughtfully chosen smaller set is far more useful than dozens of colors you rarely use. Budget-friendly options work well for beginners, but they typically dry out faster and the tips wear down more quickly. If you’re primarily coloring or blending larger areas, a brush + chisel combination is usually enough. If you enjoy detailed illustration or line work, a bullet or fine tip can be helpful. Here are the markers I like and use with students:
Ohuhu Alcohol Markers – very approachable and affordable. Great for beginners or anyone building a larger color range without a huge investment. They blend well and are easy to find online. 48 Color Brush Set 104 Color Brush Set
Blick Art Pop Markers – bright, fun colors and very beginner-friendly. These are especially good for graphic work and coloring pages.
Blick Studio Alcohol Markers – a solid mid-range option. Reliable, smooth coverage, and good value for the quality. A nice step up if you want something sturdier than entry-level sets.
Copic Markers (Ciao or Sketch) – refillable, replaceable nibs, and widely used in professional illustration. They’re an investment, but they last and perform beautifully. If you know you’ll use markers regularly, Copics are worth considering over time.
Because alcohol ink soaks into paper, it will bleed through thinner surfaces. Paper choice makes a big difference in how your markers blend, how long they last, and how smooth your color looks.
MARKER PAPER
HP Premier Copy Paper - this is what I printed our coloring sheet on and use for brush lettering practice, cheapest option for practice and runs through your home printer.
Canson XL Marker Pad – inexpensive, widely available (Amazon, Target, Walmart), thin, but performs consistently
Strathmore 400 Series Marker Pad – slightly smoother surface, blends beautifully.
Ohuhu Marker Pad – very beginner-friendly and affordable.
If you're creating finished artwork, heavier paper will feel sturdier and more substantial. Just know that thicker paper absorbs more ink — it will “drink” your markers faster. For final pieces, I recommend:
Strathmore Vellum Bristol (400 Series) – smooth enough for blending, sturdy enough for display. This is my go-to when I want a more finished result.
It gives you a professional feel without being intimidating.
Remember to always place scrap paper underneath your working sheet. Alcohol markers bleed through — even marker paper. A simple stack of printer paper works fine.
Email makeartstudios@gmail.com with any questions!