Field Test: Copic Ciao 72 Set — Long-Term Test

The Copic Ciao 72 Set stands as a formidable entry point for artists seeking professional-grade alcohol markers. This comprehensive collection offers a wide spectrum of colors, making it an incredible asset for various artistic endeavors, from illustration to design.

Our in-depth review will explore every facet of this popular marker set, dissecting its features, performance, and overall value. We aim to provide you with all the information needed to determine if this set is the right investment for your creative journey.

Copic Ciao 72 Set Overview

The Copic Ciao 72 Set is a cornerstone product from Too Corporation, a Japanese company renowned for its high-quality art supplies. Copic markers have earned a sterling reputation among professional artists, illustrators, and designers worldwide for their exceptional performance and versatility.

The Ciao line is specifically designed to be more accessible, offering a slightly smaller ink reservoir and barrel compared to the Copic Sketch markers, but retaining the same professional-grade ink and nibs. This makes them a popular choice for those looking to invest in quality markers without the higher initial cost of the larger sets.

This 72-color set provides a comprehensive palette, covering a broad spectrum of hues essential for diverse artistic projects. It includes a balanced selection of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, along with various grays and skin tones, allowing for intricate layering and sophisticated color schemes.

Alcohol-based markers like the Copic Ciao are celebrated for their ability to deliver smooth, streak-free coverage, which is a significant advantage over water-based alternatives. The quick-drying nature of the ink prevents smudging and allows for rapid layering, enhancing workflow efficiency for artists.

One of the most compelling aspects of Copic markers, including those in the Ciao 72 Set, is their unparalleled blendability. The alcohol-based ink allows colors to seamlessly merge on paper, creating smooth gradients and transitions that are difficult to achieve with other mediums. This feature is crucial for rendering depth, shadows, and subtle color shifts.

The consistency of the ink flow is another hallmark of Copic quality. Each marker delivers a uniform application of color, ensuring that your artwork maintains a professional and polished appearance. This reliability is vital for detailed work and large-scale illustrations alike.

Copic’s commitment to quality extends to the refillability of their markers. Each Ciao marker can be refilled using Copic Various Ink, significantly extending the life of your investment and reducing environmental waste. This sustainable approach is highly valued by long-term users.

Furthermore, the dual-tip design, featuring a Super Brush nib and a Medium Broad nib, offers immense flexibility. The brush tip is perfect for expressive strokes, blending, and fine details, while the broad tip excels at covering larger areas and creating crisp lines. This versatility makes the Ciao 72 Set suitable for a wide array of artistic styles and techniques.

Understanding the legacy of Copic markers helps appreciate the value of the Ciao 72 Set. Since their inception, Copic has been at the forefront of marker technology, continuously innovating to meet the demands of the creative industry. The Ciao series continues this tradition, offering professional tools in a more approachable format.

The design of the Ciao marker barrel is ergonomic and comfortable to hold, minimizing hand fatigue during extended drawing sessions. Its rounded square shape prevents the marker from rolling off your workspace, a small but significant detail that enhances user experience.

This 72-color assortment is often considered an excellent starting point for artists who are serious about incorporating alcohol markers into their toolkit. It provides enough variety to tackle complex projects while still being manageable for those new to the Copic system. The thoughtful selection of colors facilitates learning about color theory and blending techniques.

The included plastic storage case helps keep the markers organized and protected, making it easy to transport them or keep your studio tidy. Proper storage is key to maintaining the longevity and performance of alcohol markers, preventing them from drying out prematurely.

In essence, the Copic Ciao 72 Set is more than just a collection of markers; it’s an investment in a high-quality artistic tool that promises professional results and a satisfying creative experience. Its reputation for blendability, refillability, and consistent performance makes it a top contender in the world of art supplies.

While the initial cost might seem substantial, the long-term savings from refillable ink and replaceable nibs often make Copic markers a more economical choice than disposable alternatives over time. This aspect appeals to both hobbyists and professionals looking for sustainable art solutions.

Copic Ciao 72 Set Key Features & Specs

The Copic Ciao 72 Set is packed with features that contribute to its standing as a premium artist’s tool. Understanding these specifications is crucial for appreciating its capabilities and how it can elevate your artwork.

Alcohol-Based Ink: At the heart of every Copic Ciao marker is its high-quality, alcohol-based ink. This fast-drying ink allows for smooth, even coverage without streaking, a common issue with many other marker types. The rapid evaporation of alcohol ensures layers can be applied quickly without reactivating previous ones.

The ink is also translucent, which is fundamental to Copic’s renowned blending capabilities. Layers of color can be built up to create depth and shadow, and colors can be seamlessly mixed on the paper itself, offering an almost watercolor-like effect but with the precision of a marker. This characteristic is what sets Copic apart for many artists.

Dual Nibs: Super Brush & Medium Broad: Each Ciao marker is equipped with two distinct nibs, offering unparalleled versatility. The Super Brush nib is flexible and soft, akin to a paintbrush, allowing for variable line widths, expressive strokes, and exceptional blending. It’s ideal for rendering fine details, delicate transitions, and creating feathered edges.

Complementing the brush nib is the Medium Broad nib. This chiseled tip is firm and angled, perfect for broad strokes, filling larger areas quickly, and creating consistent, crisp lines. Artists can flip the marker to switch between detailed work and broad coverage instantly, streamlining their creative process.

Refillable Design: A significant economic and environmental advantage of Copic Ciao markers is their refillability. Each marker can be refilled using Copic Various Ink bottles, which come in all 358 Copic colors. A single 25ml ink bottle can refill a Ciao marker approximately 15 times, drastically reducing waste and long-term costs.

This refill system not only makes Copic markers a sustainable choice but also ensures that your favorite colors are always available. Replacing nibs is also possible, extending the life of the marker barrel indefinitely. This modularity is a testament to Copic’s commitment to professional-grade tools.

72-Color Assortment: The Ciao 72 Set provides a thoughtfully curated selection of colors. This broad palette is designed to offer a balanced range for various applications, including character design, landscape illustration, fashion design, and architectural rendering. The colors are organized to facilitate harmonious blending and color scheme development.

The set typically includes a good mix of vibrant primaries, subtle pastels, earthy tones, and several gray scales (warm, cool, neutral). This comprehensive selection allows artists to explore complex color relationships and create sophisticated artwork without immediately needing additional markers.

Non-Toxic and Low Odor: Copic Ciao markers are formulated to be non-toxic, making them safe for use in various environments, including studios and classrooms. The alcohol-based ink also has a low odor compared to some solvent-based markers, contributing to a more pleasant working experience, especially during long creative sessions.

While low odor, adequate ventilation is always recommended when working with any art supplies. The safety aspect is particularly important for artists who spend many hours working with these tools, ensuring their well-being.

Made in Japan Quality: Copic markers are manufactured in Japan under strict quality control standards. This commitment to precision engineering ensures that each marker delivers consistent performance, from ink flow to nib durability. Japanese craftsmanship is often associated with superior quality, and Copic markers uphold this reputation.

The robust construction of the marker barrels and the high-grade components used in the nibs and internal ink reservoirs contribute to the overall longevity and reliability of the product. This meticulous manufacturing process instills confidence in artists regarding their tools.

Ergonomic Barrel Design: The Ciao marker features a rounded square barrel that is comfortable to grip and prevents rolling off surfaces. Its slightly smaller diameter compared to the Sketch marker makes it ideal for smaller hands or for artists who prefer a lighter, more nimble tool. The cap indicates the color and code, aiding in quick selection.

The design is practical, ensuring that artists can focus on their creative work without discomfort or inconvenience. The consistent shape and feel across all Ciao markers provide a uniform user experience.

Ink Properties and Lightfastness: Copic inks are celebrated for their vibrancy and smooth application. However, like many dye-based inks, they are not entirely lightfast. This means that artwork exposed to direct sunlight over prolonged periods may experience some fading. For archival purposes, it is recommended to display Copic art away from direct UV light or to use UV-protective sprays and glass.

Despite this, the immediate visual impact and blendability make them a preferred choice for professional illustration, concept art, and design where reproduction is often the final output. The brilliance of the colors on paper is truly exceptional.

These features collectively contribute to the Copic Ciao 72 Set’s reputation as a powerful and versatile tool for artists. Each design choice and material selection is geared towards providing a superior artistic experience, from the initial stroke to the final blended masterpiece.

Pros & Cons

Evaluating any artistic tool requires a balanced look at its strengths and weaknesses. The Copic Ciao 72 Set, while highly regarded, is no exception. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons.

Pros of the Copic Ciao 72 Set

Exceptional Blendability

The hallmark of Copic markers is their superior blendability. The alcohol-based ink allows colors to merge seamlessly, creating smooth gradients and transitions that are difficult to achieve with other mediums. This is crucial for realistic shading, subtle color shifts, and creating depth in illustrations.

Artists can layer colors without harsh lines, achieving professional-grade results. This blendability extends to mixing colors on the paper itself, offering a level of artistic control that is highly valued in the industry. The Super Brush nib further enhances this capability, allowing for soft, feathered edges.

Dual Nibs for Versatility

Each Ciao marker features two specialized nibs: the Super Brush and the Medium Broad. This dual-tip design provides incredible flexibility, enabling artists to switch between fine details, expressive strokes, and broad coverage with a single tool. The brush nib is excellent for organic lines and delicate shading, while the broad nib is perfect for filling large areas and creating sharp edges.

This versatility means that a single marker can perform the function of multiple different types of pens, streamlining the artist’s toolkit. It reduces the need to constantly switch tools, promoting a more fluid and uninterrupted creative process.

Refillable Ink & Replaceable Nibs

Copic markers are designed for longevity, featuring refillable ink cartridges and replaceable nibs. This significantly reduces waste and makes the initial investment more economical over time. A single Copic Various Ink bottle can refill a Ciao marker up to 15 times, providing substantial savings compared to continually purchasing new markers.

The ability to replace worn-out nibs means that the marker barrel itself can last indefinitely, making Copic a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious artists. This modular design ensures that your favorite tools remain functional for years.

Vast Color Range Potential

While the 72-color set is comprehensive, it’s part of a much larger Copic color system of 358 colors. This means artists can expand their collection gradually, adding specific shades as needed. The consistent color coding across all Copic lines ensures that colors will match perfectly, regardless of the marker type.

This expansive range allows for limitless creative possibilities and precise color matching for professional projects. It supports artists in building a highly personalized and versatile palette that grows with their needs and evolving artistic styles.

Consistent Ink Flow & Vibrant Colors

Copic markers are known for their consistent, even ink flow, preventing streaking and blotchiness. This ensures a smooth application of color every time, contributing to a polished and professional finish. The colors themselves are remarkably vibrant and saturated, bringing life and intensity to any artwork.

The high-quality dyes used in Copic inks provide brilliant hues that stand out on paper. This reliability in color delivery is essential for artists who demand precision and consistency in their work, making every stroke count towards the final masterpiece.

Cons of the Copic Ciao 72 Set

High Initial Investment

Despite being the most affordable Copic line, the Copic Ciao 72 Set still represents a significant upfront cost compared to many other marker brands. This can be a barrier for hobbyists or students on a tight budget who are just starting out with alcohol markers.

While the refillable nature offers long-term savings, the initial outlay can be daunting. It requires a commitment to the medium and an understanding that this is a professional-grade tool with a price tag to match its quality and performance.

Bleeding on Thin Paper

Due to their alcohol-based ink, Copic markers can bleed through thin or low-quality paper. This means artists need to invest in specialized marker paper or thick cardstock to prevent colors from seeping through to subsequent pages or surfaces. Using a blotter paper underneath is often recommended.

This requirement for specific paper types adds to the overall cost of using Copic markers and can limit their spontaneous use on everyday sketchbooks. It’s a crucial consideration for planning your art supplies budget and workflow.

Learning Curve for Blending Techniques

Achieving the smooth, seamless blends that Copic markers are famous for requires practice and a degree of skill. Beginners might find the blending techniques challenging initially, requiring time to master layering, color transitions, and the use of the colorless blender.

While tutorials and resources are abundant, the learning curve can be frustrating for new users expecting immediate perfect results. Patience and experimentation are key to unlocking the full potential of these markers. However, once mastered, the results are truly rewarding.

Specific Storage Requirements

Alcohol markers, including Copic Ciaos, need to be stored horizontally to ensure that both nibs remain saturated with ink. Storing them vertically can lead to one nib drying out prematurely, affecting performance and requiring more frequent refills or nib replacements. This requires dedicated storage solutions.

While the included case helps, artists need to be mindful of their storage habits to maintain the markers’ optimal condition. This might be a minor inconvenience but is vital for preserving the longevity and performance of your investment.

Who Should Buy the Copic Ciao 72 Set?

Determining if the Copic Ciao 72 Set is the right investment for you depends heavily on your artistic goals, skill level, and budget. This set caters to a specific demographic of artists who prioritize quality, versatility, and long-term value in their tools.

Intermediate to Advanced Artists

This set is an excellent choice for artists who have some experience with markers or other blending mediums and are ready to elevate their work. If you’ve outgrown student-grade markers and are seeking professional results, the Ciao 72 set offers the quality and color range to achieve sophisticated illustrations.

The superior blendability and dual nibs provide the control and flexibility that experienced artists demand for detailed and nuanced artwork. It allows for advanced techniques like feathering, layering, and creating complex color palettes that are essential for professional outputs.

Illustrators and Manga Artists

Copic markers are a staple in the illustration and manga industries, and the Ciao line is no exception. The fine brush nib is perfect for rendering delicate lines, hair textures, and intricate details common in character design. The broad nib efficiently fills in larger areas, making it ideal for backgrounds and clothing.

The vibrant colors and smooth blending capabilities are crucial for creating the dynamic and expressive imagery often found in manga, comics, and concept art. Many professional illustrators rely on Copic for their speed and consistent results, especially when working on tight deadlines.

Designers (Fashion, Product, Graphic)

For designers who need to quickly render concepts with professional appeal, the Copic Ciao 72 Set is invaluable. Fashion designers can create realistic fabric textures and drape, while product designers can illustrate reflective surfaces and material finishes with precision. Graphic designers use them for mock-ups and presentation boards.

The ability to lay down smooth, even color and achieve crisp lines makes these markers perfect for presenting ideas clearly and compellingly. The extensive color range also ensures that brand colors and specific aesthetic requirements can be met effectively.

Serious Hobbyists and Art Students

If you’re a hobbyist who is passionate about art and wants to invest in tools that will truly enhance your skills, the Ciao 72 Set is a fantastic option. It provides a comprehensive range of colors and professional quality that will support your artistic development for years. This is a step up from basic craft markers.

Art students, particularly those focusing on illustration, design, or animation, will find these markers incredibly beneficial. They offer a hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, helping them build foundational skills that are transferable to digital mediums.

Artists Seeking Long-Term Value

Given their refillable nature and replaceable nibs, Copic Ciao markers offer excellent long-term value despite the initial cost. Artists who plan to use alcohol markers extensively and want to avoid the continuous expense of disposable alternatives will appreciate the sustainability and cost-effectiveness over time.

This set is an investment in a durable, high-performance tool system that can be maintained and expanded upon, rather than replaced. This makes them ideal for artists who view their tools as long-term partners in their creative journey.

Those Who Value Color Consistency and Quality

If consistent color application, vibrant hues, and smooth blending are paramount to your artistic process, then Copic Ciao markers are an excellent fit. The brand’s reputation for quality ensures that each marker performs reliably, allowing artists to focus on their creativity without battling their tools.

The precise manufacturing and high-grade inks mean that your colors will be true to their swatches and your blends will be predictable, leading to more satisfying and professional results. This consistency is a key factor for artists working on series of pieces or client projects.

Artists Who Prefer Alcohol-Based Mediums

For those who specifically enjoy working with alcohol-based markers for their unique properties—fast drying, streak-free coverage, and excellent blending—the Ciao 72 Set is a natural choice. It provides a superior experience within this medium, offering control and flexibility that other marker types cannot replicate.

Understanding the nuances of alcohol markers, such as specific paper requirements and blending techniques, will allow artists to maximize the potential of this set. It’s a tool designed to excel within its specific medium, delivering results that are characteristic of high-quality alcohol ink.

However, if you are a complete beginner with a very limited budget, or if you primarily work on projects where bleeding is unacceptable and special paper isn’t an option, you might consider starting with a smaller Copic set or exploring other, more budget-friendly marker brands initially. For serious artists, the investment in a Copic Ciao 72 Set is often a worthwhile one that pays dividends in artistic quality and satisfaction.

FAQ about Copic Ciao 72 Set

Q: Are Copic Ciao markers worth the price?

A: Yes, for serious artists and professionals, Copic Ciao markers are generally considered worth the investment. While the initial cost of the Copic Ciao 72 Set is higher than many other brands, their superior blendability, vibrant colors, and consistent ink flow justify the price. The refillable nature of the markers and replaceable nibs also contribute to their long-term value, making them more economical over time than constantly buying new disposable markers. This sustainability factor is a significant draw for many users.

Q: What’s the difference between Ciao, Sketch, and Classic Copic markers?

A: The main differences lie in their barrel design, ink capacity, and nib configurations. Copic Ciao markers have a rounder, smaller barrel and contain less ink, making them more affordable and lighter. They come with Super Brush and Medium Broad nibs. Copic Sketch markers have an oval barrel, hold more ink, and also feature Super Brush and Medium Broad nibs.

They are the most popular line due to their ergonomic shape and extensive color range. Copic Classic markers have a square barrel, the largest ink capacity, and come with Broad Chisel and Fine Point nibs, though other nib types are available for customization. All three lines use the same high-quality, refillable ink, so the color consistency is identical across the ranges.

The choice often comes down to budget, preferred barrel shape, and specific nib needs.

Q: Can I refill Copic Ciao markers, and how?

A: Absolutely, Copic Ciao markers are fully refillable, which is one of their most significant advantages. You can refill them using Copic Various Ink bottles, which are available in all 358 Copic colors. To refill, simply remove either the Super Brush or Medium Broad nib using tweezers. Then, carefully drip the Copic Various Ink directly into the marker barrel until it’s saturated.

Alternatively, you can use the Copic Booster to inject ink more precisely. It’s a straightforward process that extends the life of your markers significantly, making them a sustainable and cost-effective choice in the long run. Each 25ml ink bottle can refill a Ciao marker approximately 15 times.

Q: What paper works best with Copic Ciao markers?

A: To get the best results and prevent bleeding, it’s crucial to use paper specifically designed for alcohol markers. Smooth, heavyweight paper with a bleed-proof coating is ideal. Brands like Copic’s own "Copic Paper Selection" (such as Premium Bond Paper or X-Press It Blending Card) are excellent choices. Other good options include Bristol paper, certain cardstocks, and specialized marker papers from brands like Strathmore or Bee Paper.

These papers allow the ink to sit on the surface longer, facilitating smooth blending and preventing excessive saturation that leads to bleed-through. Avoid thin copy paper or highly textured drawing paper, as these will absorb too much ink and cause bleeding.

Q: How do I blend Copic Ciao markers effectively?

A: Effective blending with Copic Ciao 72 Set markers relies on layering and working quickly while the ink is still wet. Start with the lightest color in your blend, then apply the darker color. Immediately go back over the meeting point with the lighter color, using circular or back-and-forth motions to fuse the colors together.

The alcohol in the ink reactivates previous layers, allowing for seamless transitions. You can also use the Copic Colorless Blender (0) marker to soften edges, push color, or create texture. Practice is key to mastering different blending techniques, such as feathering, flicking, and creating smooth gradients. It’s often helpful to work on a small swatch before applying to your main artwork.

Q: Are Copic Ciao markers lightfast?

A: Copic Ciao markers, like most alcohol-based markers, use dye-based inks, which are not completely lightfast. This means that artwork exposed to direct sunlight or strong UV light over extended periods may experience fading or color shifts. For archival purposes or if your artwork will be displayed, it is recommended to keep it out of direct sunlight, use UV-protective sprays, or frame it with UV-filtering glass. While not archival in the same way as pigment-based paints, their vibrant colors and blendability make them ideal for illustrations, comics, and designs that are typically scanned, reproduced, or viewed in controlled indoor environments.

Q: How should I store Copic markers to maintain their quality?

A: Proper storage is essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of your Copic Ciao markers. They should always be stored horizontally. This ensures that the ink evenly saturates both the Super Brush and Medium Broad nibs, preventing one side from drying out prematurely. Storing them vertically can cause ink to settle at one end, leading to inconsistent ink flow and dry nibs. The plastic case included with the 72-color set is designed for horizontal storage, making it convenient for keeping them organized and protected. Away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures will also help preserve the ink’s quality.

Q: Is the Copic Ciao 72 Set a good starting set for beginners?

A: While the Copic Ciao 72 Set provides an excellent range of colors and professional quality, it might be a significant investment for an absolute beginner. For those just starting, a smaller set (like a 12-color or 24-color Ciao set) might be more approachable to learn the blending techniques and understand the medium without a large financial commitment.

However, if a beginner is serious about art and committed to mastering alcohol markers, the 72-color set offers a comprehensive palette that will support their growth for a long time, eliminating the need to upgrade quickly. It provides enough variety to explore complex projects from the outset.

Final Verdict

The Copic Ciao 72 Set stands as an outstanding investment for artists who are serious about their craft and looking to achieve professional-grade results with alcohol markers. Its reputation for superior blendability, vibrant colors, and ergonomic design is well-earned, making it a favorite among illustrators, designers, and dedicated hobbyists worldwide.

The dual nibs offer unparalleled versatility, allowing for everything from broad strokes to intricate details with seamless transitions. The refillable ink and replaceable nibs underscore Copic’s commitment to sustainability and provide excellent long-term value, offsetting the initial higher cost over time.

While the upfront price and the need for specialized paper might be considerations, these are minor trade-offs for the quality and performance you receive. The learning curve for blending is a journey, not a barrier, and the rewards in artistic expression are immense once mastered. It’s a tool that grows with the artist.

This 72-color collection provides a comprehensive palette, giving artists a solid foundation to explore a vast range of artistic styles and projects. It removes the limitations often found with smaller, less varied sets, encouraging experimentation and creative freedom.

For those ready to commit to a professional-grade art medium, the Copic Ciao 72 Set offers an amazing value proposition. It’s more than just markers; it’s a gateway to unlocking new levels of artistic precision and vibrant expression. We wholeheartedly recommend this set for anyone looking to elevate their alcohol marker artwork.

For more information on Copic products and their full range, visit the official Copic website. You can also learn more about alcohol markers in general through resources like Wikipedia’s Marker Pen entry.