Copic Sketch
Copic WalletCopic markers are expensive, so it’s important to take good care of them. If you treat them well, these markers can last a lifetime. One of the most important things you can do to make sure your markers last is to store them properly.
How should you store your Copic markers?
Copics are alcohol-based markers which makes them combustible, so you should keep them away from fire and heat. Also, direct sunlight can damage the plastic barrel, which can affect the ink. Keep your markers out of the sun and in a cool, dark place.
Can Copic markers be stored upright, or are they better stored horizontally?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions regarding Copic Markers. Most people think that if you store your markers vertically, the ink will travel down towards one end of the barrel, drying out the top nib. With that logic, you would think storing them horizontally would be better.
However, Copic Markers aren’t hollow. Each marker contains a cartridge that acts like a sponge, soaking up and holding the ink inside so it doesn’t move around. The ink won’t leak out of the bottom of the marker if you store it vertically.
It doesn’t matter if you store them flat or upright and comes down to personal preference.
Do Copic markers have a shelf life, and will they dry out even if you don’t use them?
Copics are great markers, and if you take care of them they will last you a lifetime. Still, if you don’t store them correctly or don’t use them for too long, the ink can dry out and the nibs can get warped. Luckily, the ink and nibs can be replaced for pretty cheap, saving you the cost of a new marker.
Alcohol-based ink evaporates pretty quickly, so make sure your marker cap is on tight. If it is, Copic states that the marker should last up to three years.
How should I organize my markers?
The most common way to organize your markers is by how often you use certain colors. That way, the markers that you use the most are always close at hand.
Another way to store them is by color. You can keep all your reds, blues, greens, and other colors in their own separate compartment.
A more technical approach would be to group the markers by their color families, saturation, and tone. This is how the Copic Color System (the letters and numbers on each marker) classifies each color. If you’re not familiar with this system, you can read more about it in our in-depth Copic Marker guide.
Ultimately, the way you store and organize your markers is entirely up to you!
What’s the best organizer for Copic Markers?
There are tons of products to help you sort your marker collection.
Most craft stores sell affordable organizer shelves with individual cubbies to help you group your markers any way you want. Even the plastic case that your Copics come in can work as an organizer, but they do tend to crack and break.
If you want to travel with your markers, Copic makes a portable wallet that is really convenient. The wallet is made of polyester and comes in various sizes, holding 24, 32, or 72 markers. It includes individual slots for each marker, keeping them snug and secure.
In the end, there are lots of ways to organize your markers. What’s important is to find the system that works best for you.