What I Wish I Knew Before I Started Using Alcohol Markers

[@tropezando]

Yes, you can use blenders to "bleach" or erase colors, but they really do work as blenders too. The process is similar to priming a canvas (or a face if you're into makeup): saturate the area with the blender, then apply the colors you want to blend on top of it. You can also mix inks on plastic palettes like paint and use the blender or another marker to apply to paper. I recommend watching various tutorials to get the most out of your markers.

[@fightermack]

Thank you for this :) I’m not an artist and struggle horribly with markers but this is helpful knowledge to have.

[@rosejohnson973]

To prevent burst of colors like with deep colors in Copics - red in particular - take the caps off both ends!!

[@susandzama3000]

Also, try slanting the marker as you refill to run down to keep air out

[@callme_elllllll101]

@Rose Johnson Okay!

[@reflectionsbyjane]

I succumbed to full set syndrome and bought all the nuvo alcohol markers. I’m in love. Thanks for the tips. Really useful 👍🏽

[@maeverose2290]

The blender marker is supposed to go down first, and then you put the colors on top of it. It makes it easier to blend when the paper is wet underneath. But yes it’s also helpful for removing ink lol

[@hetherlafontise2196]

Right lol, You can definitely blend with the blending marker for my experience anyways...

[@mrslisalytle8386]

Thank you' you are the first that I've seen who actually colors step by step!

[@PHamm54]

Thank you for your kind instruction. I didn’t realize “blender pen” was actually an “eraser”n so good to know! I have had several classes from professional artists, where I learned the technique of blending by imagining “light” coming from your left upper area; this would the darkest shade on your lower right. Then also imagine shadows where they would naturally occur; so if there’s a leaf or petal on top of another, a shadower would normally occur under the upper one. This makes a more realistic look.

[@lori_bain]

I'm a recent convert to alcohol markers/pens, and after trying several brands landed on the Nuvo Creative Pens. They're fantastic! I'm glad you mentioned the actual use of the blender pen. I mistakenly used the Nuvo blender to blend, but quickly realized that's not what it's for. I'm glad you pointed that out in your video. :-)

[@vahultman860]

Still love this hair the best!! It makes me ridiculously happy! As do you. Thanks so much.

[@susanjohnson318]

I bought a big set of alcohol markers cheap at Tuesday Morning with no idea what they did. It has 2 blender pens and I truly thought they were blending before this video. Thank you!

[@jmjanacek4335]

Same!!

[@raaxx1968]

HURRAHHHHH FOR YOU!!!! Finallyyyyy someone explained the blending process of the bleeding to going over again with the lightest to finalize!!!! Anddddd, Thank You for explaining the use of Blenders - talk about misleading. I could not figure out that after using the blender my coloring LOOKED WORSE!!!! I have subscribed to you for about two years and enjoyed all of your tutorials. Most were over my head because I was a newbie; but, I still learned something. Knowwwww I feel rejuvenated to start again - Thank You, again - dixie

[@feralshojo]

To use the blender correctly, apply it on the paper before you use the colors you want to blend.

[@janewebb3477]

Thank you for this info, I was getting a bit discouraged. Using your sequence of laying down color/shades has given me almost instant better results. I have the whole set of nuvo markers and love them. Thanks again

[@beckyoehler8838]

Hey Alex. I watched your video this evening, and enjoyed the blending tips you gave. Compliments to doctor Greg on his video skills with this one. I commented on the video last night regarding not being able to see what was being done. However, this evening kudos to the video. I am fairly new at crafting, and love every tip I can get. Thank you for your wonderful videos.

[@pjfoltz8810]

Thank you for showing the different markers. I did not know that about the blender pen. I have yet to buy a set of markers. I enjoyed seeing these

[@reneecharleswell5139]

I appreciated the tutorial, but your title is misleading. I wanted to know what u wish u knew before starting to use these kind of markers.

[@sueallen952]

Agree, I find all the hedgehog videos DONT cover what the titles say!!!! Don't know if they are just trying to get views but the videos are nothing to do with the titles

[@abbyrivers9971]

Feels clickbaity...allthough I think IT must be accidental.

[@george.htley08]

i think they are explaining what they wanted to know

[@lovecolors1898]

OMG! I cant believe you are talking about alcohol markers. I am researching what kind of markers to buy, paper, ink , ect. Thank you for your advice!

[@user-sz6fe5vu1u]

Thanks for the "blender pen" info! Good to know!

[@brendakuder2957]

I have to say that I think the copic blending looks the best. I am glad those are the ones that I have.

[@tami1796]

Thank you for sharing your videos

[@janiceryan4481]

Thank you I had no idea how to blend before your video. Jan from 🇦🇺

[@deeman524]

Thanks, I didn't know that about the blender marker

[@vintagehorror-geek860]

It's called a colorless blender, because that's literally what it's for - blending from colored to colorless.

[@billiejo1978]

Did not understand the description to the video....it says "wot you wish you knew b4 you started useing alcohol markers" but all you havve done is done blending so wot was it that you wished you knew..? I think the copic blended a whole lot better than the spectrum & nuvo coz you could see harsh lines on both the spectrum & nuvo .thort the whole point of blending is to NOT have harsh lines...? I dont use alscohol markers yet coz im trying to find good ones that are very affordable for me but so far the copic are the best choice i think but still bit pricey ent they...have you tested them copic copy cat markers i think they called "Touch" or something has anyone found a really good (like copic) that are very affordable..? Im only wanting the flesh coloured ones can anyone recommend affordable good alcohol markers that dont leave markers or harsh lines wen bleneded please...?....i loveing the colour of your hair really suits you that colour hun...great videos thank you for shareing 🌻😁

[@mariac5154]

Would love to see a tutorial using NON TOXIC soft pastels! Thanks!

[@carolgodfrey4232]

I love it when you share ideas with the tonic kits I love getting inspiration

[@suemichaels8867]

Thank you for the tutorial. I've been futtzing around with pencils and water-based pens for a year or so with no great success and finally decided to try alcohol markers. Your tutorial has helped me get going in the right direction.

[@JMicheleS33]

Thank you for showing your techniques Alexandra, you always have wonderful videos! Also, Kitt and Clowder offers fantastic classes teaching with both pencils and markers from several popular companies and they’re so beneficial and helpful! Alyce also offers one on one support if you need further assistance or have any questions.

[@NancyLynn]

That's great to know, Jamie....thank you!

[@chantalle7340]

Hi, thank you for your video. I have lots of patterned Paper. Could you do a video on easy ways to use patterned paper in our designs? Thank you 😊

[@theresaplischke5590]

I'm really interested in alcohol markers..so I'm checking out these videos..Hedgehog Hollow seems to be the one I've "clicked with" .I'm going to buy a set very soon! The nuvo seems to be the one! But I also like the 3 in1 noir idea as well..I'll see what my art store has ... 😄

[@theresaplischke5590]

And where do I find the sticky grid and the stencils? Love that !

[@mayloo2137]

Questions: 1. Do you have a preference using alcohol inks compared to alcohol markers?2. Is there a brand your prefer like Copic vs. Ohuhu markers?

[@Scallywagins]

Complete novice here! Can you tell me what that case device is that you used at the beginning of the video? The thing you used to stamp the image?

[@debbywilson327]

Love alcohol markers and great tips, again! Hello from Dallas

[@PaperSquirrelsCardDesigns]

Which brand do you find has the easiest lid to take off and snap back on? Asking for all of us arthritic crafter!

[@kesami123]

I like the Altenew alcohol markers. They have a fine tip and a brush tip, like Copics, but a much better price point. TYSM for sharing your tips on marker coloring! :D :D :D

[@emptynestscrapper961]

I think copics have a brush tip and a chisel tip. But I prefer brush and fine tip combination like you. I bought the spectrum noir illustrator markers because they offer the brush/fine tip combination (the only ones I could find at the time). I’ve been happy with them, and they’re refillable. The Altenew look great, but I have no need for additional markers.

[@traceybartlam5940]

emptynestscrapper I tried some illustrators but the brush nibs on mine were awful! They were so soft and as soon as they were used went bushy and horrible at the tip. No way you could do anything delicate, even staying in the lines is a no no. I hope mine were a bad batch and that others are better but mine are unusable at the brush end 😕

[@emptynestscrapper961]

tracey bartlam Oh no... sounds awful. I hope that doesn’t happen to me with more use 😲. But so far so good...I tend to use the bullet nib for detail and the brush for blending and larger areas. I’m glad to find out that other brands are coming out with the same combination.

[@NancyLynn]

@@emptynestscrapper961 I have Copics and some Altenew markers (these ones I haven't had enough playtime to really voice a 'solid' opinion except to say that so far, so good, especially considering that they are less expensive than Copics). That being said, I do feel that Copics are the superior marker but if I had the chance to go back, I would do my due diligence on alcohol markers because their are so many better choices available today . Regarding my Copics, I too prefer fine tip/brush tip combo in a marker as my hands are arthritic so that fine tip is a 'game changer' for me. I ended up purchasing the 'fine tip nibs' and put those nibs into my most used combos and although it was an extra expense, it was totally worth it to me and my coloring is soooo much easier particularly when getting into those tight spots. Happy crafting everyone!

[@darlenedesario2811]

Very informative video. Thanks a bunch.

[@martharodriguez4864]

Great tip.....thank you for sharing!!

[@sharoncyber50]

This ia a very helpful video Thank you

[@pegy7705]

I love my Classique Spectrum Noir pens and illustrators. They don't squeak like the tri-blends and the ink is smoother. I think they would be a better comparison to Copics.

[@poppyawela]

i have rlly rlly cheap markers called "born." I think how do you use those??????

[@ssharp11]

Excellent tutorial. Thank you. Wishing you a super week. Hugs Susan

[@influentialolive]

I Still haven't used any Alcohol markers... I have 2 or 3 Nuvo sets now... but... I haven't done anything with them. I love the look though. And, Love the sticky grid tip. Just, Literally, forget to order... 3x now. Lol. Tyfs!

[@debbietaylor1292]

Would like to know which “blender (eraser) pen” to get for removing mistakes! Thanks

[@ArunaDMurthy]

How do I use a colourless blender pen ? I really want to know pls

[@Taitcreates639]

So helpful tome. Tyfs. Hugs.

[@buffyvampire7814]

I just got caliart markers they blend so nicely and r a cheap brand of copic .i got mine 81 markers for 27.00.

[@kimbearlysoriginal4276]

Another great video. Thank you.

[@AggieScrapMom]

I have a question on the blender pen. I find that when I use it and push the color back in, the color tends to bleed back out into the wet area created by the blender pen. Do you ever have that problem?

[@HedgehogHollow]

I have not, what blender are you using?

[@AggieScrapMom]

I use my Copic blender with Copics and Spectrum Noir Blender with those pens!

[@cherimiller1942]

I had this problem too, I've found that if you quickly blot the area you used the blender pen on...there is less bleed

[@lisac2989]

Thanks for the tutorial 😃 I also have a question can you write or blend on top of matte medium when collaging in a mixed media art journaling page with Alcohol markers?

[@pampam3144]

Very helpful! Thank you!!

[@mariafortunato8015]

I hope you are feeling better. Your voice sounded hoarse last video. Hugs

[@emmalynns197]

Hi! I am new, i just stopped by here.Could u try the studio 71 markers and masters touch!? Thanks!

[@abbyrivers9971]

Frugalcrafter channel also has loads of reviews of different alcohol markers.Maybe that's a tip for you?

[@feralshojo]

You were using the blender pen wrong. It's supposed to be applied to the paper BEFORE using the colors you want to blend.

[@Mousie01234]

I have been looking for ideas on creating landscape backgrounds with stamp sets, or stamp sets that haven a variety of stamps that can be combined for multiple types of landscapes/natureesque backgrounds. Is this something a video can be done on?

[@joaniecanzone3370]

Great tips! Thank you!

[@norahmatthews2896]

Thankyou very helpful👌

[@colinshandraw2202]

Is this the obsidian Gina k ink?

[@pollyweinmann5082]

Have you tried Blick Studio ALOCHOL markers?

[@NotAppIicabIe]

So my azure markers do blend better than I thought.. I just used the technique in the video. Wow..

[@TheRockyCrowe]

Thank you so much for this tutorial! And thanks for explaining what a blender pen actually is! Im new to markers and literally just test ran a Copic blender pen and freaked out that it screwed up the colors rather than blend them together as I had expected. I thought it was defective! 😂 Wow. They should just call it ‘mistake’ or ‘eraser’ marker instead.

[@archiehunt1636]

My markers keep leaking everything on my page like branches i don’t know how to describe it can someone help?

[@cheeling794]

I like the last marker look the beat but have never heard of them?

[@bonnerdebbie]

Helpful, thanks!

[@eagercrafter_9014]

Love that explanation.

[@jenniferb.awesome]

I wish I knew how hard it is to find good paper for alcohol markers! I just bought Ohuhu brand markers and I've been doing all kinds of research on the correct paper, but everytime I think I've found a paper that people have sworn by, there's always other people that say its bad 😖 it's seriously really frustrating!

[@HedgehogHollow]

I love the tonic ultra smooth white; i use it for stamps and coloring and never found anything it doesnt work with

[@infinitegalaxies6693]

I'd suggest going to your local art store and searching for marker paper. Strathmore is generally a really good brand = )

[@gillbennett6616]

Thank you for this tutorial, I have learnt a bit more about blending.

[@patcoombes2901]

Thank you, learned loads

[@leanneharris3481]

Hi, Does this technique work in Adult colouring books?

[@infinitegalaxies6693]

For most coloring books, if you use markers it will blend through to the other page or even several, so if you lay a few sheets in-between, and don't oversaturate the paper (use the markets too much in one place at a time) you should be fine

[@TheJanestarling]

I struggle with alcohol markers, I have the Nuvo pens, but I think the saturating of the paper will help no end. Can I ask what you used to label your pens, the Royal Purples? It would make identifying them so much easier.

[@HedgehogHollow]

My p-touch amzn. to/ 2HeJXv2 just remove the spaces :-)

[@be_a_bright_sparkle3687]

I love the Nuvo markers...Do you know when the new colours will be available in the UK?..I’m driving myself mad checking😂...the new sets of pencils too...🥰

[@HedgehogHollow]

Very soon on the markers; pencils are due in july

[@be_a_bright_sparkle3687]

Thank you...I will keep watching you whilst waiting...🤣🥰

[@tconwaybb]

What is that sticky grid paper?

[@HedgehogHollow]

It's called sticky grid; i've linked it in the description for you

[@joycegandy7305]

Enjoyed the video and thank you:-)

[@ramonalee1]

Wow! Well that technique just sucked all the joy out of coloring. I just couldn’t do that for every section!

[@traceybartlam5940]

Ramona Gaston the whole point of good colouring is adding depth by shading and light and dark! If you look at some of the amazing people out there such as the work by Sandy Allnock and Alyce Keegan (think that’s here name!) it takes a lot of time but you get results. It’s what makes great colouring different from flat colours that anyone, including a child, can do. If you don’t want to blend just use normal pens, it’ll save you a fortune!

[@shellyt2906]

Hi are the Nuvo markers refillable?

[@HedgehogHollow]

Not at this time

[@merisonola]

I have a noob question.... .... Do you ever have to worry about getting colors mixed on your tips from a previous marker? I've never used alcohol markers. But i know, other markers can get ruined from mixing on the tips.

[@ravenbeaudoin109]

Id love to know as well, not a noob question at all. Its a great question!

[@nadineshull9063]

I too would like to know.

[@EnlightenedFlamingo]

Does Nuvo have the blender marker?

[@HedgehogHollow]

Yes in the depth and shade pack, i link it in the description

[@EnlightenedFlamingo]

@@HedgehogHollow Oh, awesome, thank you!

[@luanastark9876]

TFS this, I’m still working at blending with my copics ..My hubby gave me setA(72) for my birthday and I have added about 20 more to them..it takes practice,lots of practice..Are the Nuvo pens tips hard like the Spectrum Noir???? Are Nuvo pens refillable or will they be in the future?..Happy Mothers Day....

[@NancyLynn]

Wow, Luana...what a wonderful hubby! I totally agree with your comment....like any other medium, it takes a lot of 'consistent' practice to get better at it. There are no shortcuts so I've decided that, along with practice, I am going to take a class or 2. TFS Luana and happy crafting!

[@HedgehogHollow]

What a wonderful hubby! The nuvo pen tips are hard but not squeaky i prefer them to SN, they currently are not refillable :-)

[@palakrokde1510]

You have to wear respiratory mask while using alcohol markers???

[@StitchesbySharonH]

Hi! This was very helpful! Thank you for sharing! 💜

[@sherir4462]

Thank you for the blending pen information! Also, do you have a video on the Altenew markers? There are so many colors and I don’t understand the numbering system. I have them all, but I wish I would have gotten an easier set for beginners!

[@NancyLynn]

Ditto, Momof5! I also do NOT understand the numbering on the Alt markers so would love some info. Good info, Alexandra!

[@HedgehogHollow]

On the list!

[@deedeeriggs]

I've seen a lot of videos on coloring but I really like the way you did it. It just seemed to come across so much clearer. So why in the world did they name them blender pens??!!? I didn't know that.

[@NancyLynn]

Yep, considering the great reputation of Copic markers, I too think they 'missed the boat' on the name of that marker LOL!

[@charlottesmom]

I just wish I knew they are not lightfast! 😫

[@ireneisbell2004]

What is printer paper ?

[@traceybartlam5940]

Irene Isbell the paper you use in your printer!

[@mrshappyshappy]

Informative video but off topic where is your accent from? I know I've watched someone on tv with the exact same voice and it was distracting me trying to fathom out who it is lols (still a mystery to me) - not your fault at all of course lols

[@janicerigsbee4129]

I can totally understand why do you don’t like the squeaky noise I have autism and to me it’s like chalk on a chalkboard or someone taking her fingers down a chalkboard.

[@BrynlovesKanye]

♥️

[@McCreaFamilyHomestead]

Umm your title was clickbait cause you never talked about what you wish you had known before buying.

[@raniab5487]

Her voice sounds familiar. Does she work at MissMojo or WatchMojo?

[@s.baxter3891]

😘😘

[@Ninjamom4]

❤️❤️❤️

[@influentialolive]

I'm rather interested in the tri-blend pens.... because of refill option. I can NOT find them IN Stock When I can make a purchase. Lol. Catch 22. I have Plenty of coloring mediums as well though.... And, do Often, prefer to heat emboss and watercolor 🤙👌

[@HedgehogHollow]

I linked a few options in the description and they were in stock

[@gailweber6849]

Your markers sound dry, I have every Noir, they never squeak

[@HedgehogHollow]

They are brand new so i dont think they are

[@juleschrader5785]

I dont Like, that the Image ist upside down...

[@anishinaabae]

did i really just sit thru 13 mins of this to watch someone use pillow shading???

[@facehunter504]

I’m sorry but if I’m not some kinda professional artist of some sort I would NEVER buy Copics. Yea they’re great and all. But great artists do great things with whatever they’re given. I’m new to this and a friend showed me the Copics compared to 3 other expensive markers.. they looked great. But he also had some cheaper ones he said he used all the time. Yea he’s an artist.. he and his brother have a few comics out. Also he recently switched to all digital when it comes to their comics

[@JosephUsher]

I've seen videos where the creator said to blend colors from light to dark, and from dark to light, so there seems to be some disparity of opinion on that one. I finally saw a video where the creator said to do what is right for you, which I believe is the ACTUAL correct answer. Also, going through all these steps, which I've only seen here, seems to be a lot of work for not much difference in the result. Personally, I don't think it's all worth the extra effort.

[@ritabrassfield4296]

Great tips! Thank you