Product Review 4 U

Tim Holtz Distress markers by Ranger

I admit to being hesitant about these when they first hit the market. After all, I do already own a boatload of Copic markers and I do love my Copics. Why would I need a second set of markers? I am glad you asked. I have grown to love these markers and I use them every day. Their properties are quite different from Copics, so here is a side by side review- pros and cons!

Colors: nothing can beat Copics for their vast spectrum of colors. The first release of Distress markers came in 37 colors. They are excellent colors, but are the  earthy distress shades. Great for vintage projects. Those of us who love these markers were unhappy that we had no bright shades. Ranger just released 12 more colors- they are the bright seasonal colors- so our pleas have been answered. Distress still can't compete with the color choices of Copic, but the available shades are good.

Blending: both brands blend beautifully.

Refillable: Copics, yes. Distress, no.

Bleeding: Copics will bleed through to the other side of cardstock. Distress markers do not.

Use with stamping: You cannot color a stamped image with Copics unless you stamp with Memento brand or emboss first. All other inks will be smeared by Copics. Distress will work well with any permanent die ink.

Water: Copics do not react to water. Distress markers are very reactive to water. This means that you can color a bit onto your craft mat, spritz with a bit of water and paint on your image for a nice watercolor effect. You can also take a colored image, lightly spritz with water for an interesting pebble look, or flick droplets of water onto it to get those ghostly splotches. 

Nibs: replacement nibs are available from both companies.

Use with nonporous surfaces: Copics yes, Distress no. ( say you wanted to color a button to match your project, Copics would work).

Recommendations: if you do art journalling, Distress markers will make you very happy. They will not bleed through your page, and there are lots of fun effects you can achieve because they are so reactive to water.

Footnote: Distress markers have a nice tight cap to prevent drying out. When placing the cap back on your marker, be sure you hear that little snap that tells you the cap is fully engaged.