Nine lives of dried alcohol markers: Tips and tricks

Found your Ohuhu, Sharpies, Copic, or any alcohol-based markers dry?

No need to panic! Within 15 minutes, we'll solve this issue. 

As an artist, my work desk boasts various alcohol markers, ranging from high-end Copic markers, Promarkers by Winsor & Newton, and Chameleon markers to obscure, low-cost brands. 

Unfortunately, I've encountered frustrating moments when my markers fail to deliver during the drawing process. As a result, I find myself frantically searching for a bottle of alcohol in my studio to rectify the situation.

By the way, if you occasionally have a bottle of vodka in the fridge, it will work, too.

But wait! What if you don't have alcohol to revive your dry markers but want to finish the coloring page?

How do you fix dry markers without alcohol? Keep reading.

If you're considering purchasing Copic markers, you may have noticed that refilling ink is available for them, and it can be expensive—sometimes even more costly than the markers themselves.

However, there may be times when you don't have the budget for Copic ink, and your markers require a little reviving.

Is it possible to use alcohol to fix dried Copic markers? Let's find out.

But before we start, let me say you are lucky! You don't need to go through the same ordeal I did trying to keep your alcohol markers alive. 

Because through the years, I've discovered some super cool and easy tricks to revive any dried-out markers in just 15 minutes. Are you ready to learn? Let's dive in!

Soak the Marker Tips in Isopropyl Alcohol.

My first and favorite method to give my dried markers another life.

Magical bath time!

I tried to pour alcohol directly into the marker ink tank, and for me, this method always ended with unexpected ink blots and smudges. That's why I never do that again.

This method also can revive dried Copic markers without needing Copic ink refills, especially when time or budget is limited.

Step 1: Let's make sure you have everything you need:

• Dried alcohol markers

• Isopropyl alcohol (at least 90% concentration, but one day, vodka worked for my alcohol markers too)

• A small container or cup

• Clean tissues or paper towels

• Plastic gloves (if you want to keep your hands clean)

• And most importantly, patience and a positive attitude! 

Step 2: Preparing the Workspace. 

At this moment, I always feel like a witch. I even have a black cat lurking around.

So, before you begin your alcohol marker revival act, let's prepare the stage properly. This way, you can quickly return to finishing your coloring page without needing to wash the house and hands for the next two hours.

• Cover your work area with newspaper or an old cloth to avoid any potential drips. 

• Additionally, donning plastic gloves will protect your hands from getting dirty. 

Now let's get started on some marker magic!

Step 3: The Soothing Bath. Oh, Yeah, baby! 

• Fill your small container or cup with a bit of isopropyl alcohol. Make sure it's deep enough to submerge the tip of your dried marker completely. 

• Gently insert the marker tip-first into the alcohol. It should be fully immersed. 

• Allow the marker to soak for 5-10 minutes for optimal results. During this time, the alcohol will effectively dissolve the dried pigment obstructing the ink flow within the marker.
  

Step 4: The Shake Dance. Picture yourself as Shakira perform her final dance.

Once the marker has had its relaxing alcohol bath, it's time for a shake dance!

Shake it, shake it, shake it!

• Take the marker out and shake it to dislodge any remaining pigment particles. 

• Let's be gentle with the marker as we coax it instead of challenging it to a dance-off.

Step 5: Testing, Testing, Testing!

• Dab the marker tip on a clean tissue or paper towel to see if the ink is flowing smoothly again. 

• If it's still stubborn, give it another quick soak in the alcohol for a few more minutes. 

• Repeat the shake dance and test until you're satisfied with the results.

Step 6: Cleaning and Storing. Take care of them, and they will be good boys.

• Clean the tip gently with a tissue or paper towel to remove excess alcohol. 

• Recap the marker to prevent it from drying out in the future. 

• Store your markers horizontally to ensure even ink distribution and prevent future drying.

Two ways to raise alcohol markers from the grave if you don't have alcohol on hand. 

The first way: Blender Marker to the rescue!

Revitalize your dry markers with the colorless blender marker that often comes in a set of alcohol markers. 

If you have one, grab it now and get started!

Gather the necessary materials:

• Blender marker (also known as a colorless blender)

• Dried alcohol marker
  

Steps to revive dried alcohol markers using a blender marker instead of an alcohol bath:

• Take the dried alcohol marker and the blender marker.

• Hold the dried marker in one hand and the blender marker in the other.

• Touch the blender marker's tip to the dried marker's tip.

• Apply gentle pressure and move the blender marker in small circular motions on the dried marker tip.

• Continue blending for about 10-15 seconds.

• Test the marker on scrap paper to check for improved ink flow. If necessary, repeat the process.

The second way: Water can give life to everything.

Repeat the steps in the "Soak the Marker Tips in Isopropyl Alcohol" method, but use warm water instead of alcohol. Voila!

Reviving dried alcohol markers with warm water might not be the conventional approach, but it's a method that works and allows you to continue your coloring evening. Remember, art knows no bounds, and your markers don't either.

How to keep alcohol markers from drying out? Store your alcohol markers properly. 

Prevention is the key to keeping your markers in tip-top shape. 

• Always store alcohol markers horizontally to ensure even ink distribution.

• Keep the marker caps tightly closed when not in use to prevent evaporation and drying.

• Store markers in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

• Avoid storing markers near sources of heat or moisture, as it can affect the ink quality.

So, I hope I saved you coloring evening! Just remember to give your markers the proper care they need to prevent them from drying out again. 

Keep coloring, and have a great time with your brand-new markers!

Do you still have a bunch of questions about dried alcohol markers?

Let me gather them all up and answer them in one convenient spot!

Do alcohol markers dry out if you don't use them?

If you're not using your alcohol markers, they can dry out. Over time, the alcohol solvent evaporates, and the ink dries up, which can clog the tip of your marker.

Here are some tips you should keep in mind:

• Do not shake the marker very hard, as this can damage the tip.

• Do not use the marker on a rough surface, which can also damage the tip.

• If the marker is still not working after trying the methods I described in this article, you may need to replace it.

How long does it take for alcohol markers to dry out?

Alcohol markers can dry out in weeks or months, depending on how you store and use them.

These factors affect drying time:

• How often you use markers: Markers you use frequently will dry out slower than those that stay in their box.

• How you store the markers: Markers stored in a cool, dry place will dry out more slowly than in a hot, humid place.

• The type of alcohol marker: Some alcohol markers are more prone to drying out than others.
  
  
  

If you want to prevent your alcohol markers from drying out, it is essential to store them properly and use them regularly. 

Don't forget to:

• Keep the markers capped when they are not in use.

• Store the markers in a cool, dry place.

• Avoid storing the markers in direct sunlight or near a heat source.

• Use the markers regularly so the ink doesn't have a chance to dry out.

How long does an alcohol marker last?

Alcohol markers can last long if you store them properly and use them regularly.

However, the exact lifespan of an alcohol marker will vary depending on several factors, including:

• The brand and quality of the marker: Alcohol markers made with higher quality materials and inks can last longer.

• How often you use the marker: Markers that you use often will last longer than markers that are not.

• How you store the marker: Storing markers in a cool, dry place will increase their longevity compared to keeping them in a hot, humid place.

• The type of paper you use: Some types of paper can absorb ink more quickly than others, which can shorten the lifespan of the marker.
  
  

Generally speaking, alcohol markers can last 12 to 18 months if you store and use them correctly, but various factors mentioned above can affect their durability.

What else can I use to revive my alcohol markers instead of warm water and a bottle of rubber alcohol?

Anything contains alcohol with works. If you are out of the house, you can basically use hand sanitizer. We all care about it with us these days. Or it could be cologne, toilet water, vodka, rum, and even nail polish. 

If you have any questions about alcohol markers, feel free to ask in the comments below. I'm here to help you find solutions and encourage your creativity! Cheers!

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