How to Refill and Clean Copic Sketch Markers

Hi friends, this is Caitlin and today we are going to talk about how to refill and clean your Copic Sketch Markers. Marker maintenance is not super fun but it is super important and greatly affects the life span of your markers.

In this step-by-step tutorial, I'll show you how to refill Copic Sketch markers, clean your marker caps and help keep your favorite colors ready for your next card making or coloring project.

I use 90% Isopropyl Alcohol to clean the inside of my marker caps and any ink from around the plastic ends of the marker. Refilling your markers is very easy and you can keep reading or see the whole process in my video here:

Supplies You'll Need to Refill Copic Sketch Markers

• Your Copic Sketch marker
• A matching Copic ink refill
• Copic Nib Tweezers
• Scrap paper or paper towel to protect your work surface
• Cleaning supplies for the marker exterior and caps

How to Refill Copic Sketch Markers Step by Step

Step 1: Clean the Marker

Before refilling, clean away excess ink around the plastic ends of your marker and inside the caps. Work carefully and allow cleaned areas to dry before handling the ink refill.

Step 2: Remove the Chisel Nib

Once your marker is clean, grip the chisel marker tip with the Copic Nib Tweezers and pull it straight out. Place it somewhere safe, such as a scrap of paper or paper towel, to protect your work surface.

Step 3: Add the Matching Copic Ink Refill

Check that your refill ink matches your marker's color code. Insert the thin, needle-like end of the refill bottle into the open end of your marker and gently squeeze to add ink. You can use the lines and dots on the side of the bottle to monitor how much ink is being transferred. Follow the manufacturer's guidance for refill quantities and avoid overfilling.

Need another color? Browse our Copic ink refills to find the matching shade.

Step 4: Replace the Nib

When you're finished refilling, use the tweezers to place the chisel tip straight back into the marker, making sure it is seated correctly.

Step 5: Let the Ink Distribute

Replace both caps and lay your marker flat for a few minutes so the ink can distribute evenly to both ends.

Why Copic Marker Maintenance Matters

It is so important to keep your markers filled. If they dry out completely your nibs may need to be replaced or you may need to replace the whole marker. I want to also be super honest with you that this is not something I think about when I would rather be creating but trust me, if you try to color with a dry marker, you will wish you had done some marker maintenance earlier.

If a nib becomes worn, explore our Copic replacement nibs and check compatibility with your marker model. You can also browse Copic marker storage to keep your supplies organized.

Shop Copic Markers and Refills

Ready for your next coloring project? Explore Copic Sketch markers, matching ink refills and other Copic supplies at ScrapbookPal.

Supplies: