It is important to use the right inks and papers in order to get the best results with your Copic markers. There are a lot of different brands and types... some work well while others do not. This is a list of inks that I have tested myself during my use with Copics.
Memento (by Tsukineko) - This is a dye ink and no heat setting is required. It is VERY popular for Copic use and is the only ink I use with my Copics.
Adirondack (by Ranger) - This is a dye ink and no heat setting is required. It works great for some, but others find that it feathers.
A Muse Dye Ink - This is a newer product. Many people use this with good results although I do not particulary like it.
Brilliance (by Tsukineko) - This is a pigment ink and must be heat set for good results.
Pallet (by Stewartsuperior) - This is a hybrid ink and must be heat set, but only provides "okay" results. It does produce slight feathering. I also do not use this type of ink.
Stampin' Up - This is a dye ink and there will be some feathering and bleeding.
Distress Inks (by Ranger) - These are dye inks and will produce some feathering and bleeding.
VersaFine (by Tsukineko) - This is an oil based pigment ink and does NOT work well with Copics because it feathers A LOT.
StazOn (by Tsukineko) - This is a solvent based ink and is NOT compatible with Copic ink.
Good papers allow you to add color within specific areas and not have feathering. Feathering is when your marker ink spreads beyond where you put your pen down. Bleeding is when your ink soaks through the back of your paper. Try a variety of different papers and see which one you like and gives you the best results. Please note that bleeding through the back of your paper is OKAY... it just shows you how even you are coloring and that you should put something underneath.
PaperTrey is 110 lb. cardstock and is most popular brand for Copic use.
Gina K Luxury is 120 lb. (no bleed through) or 80 lb. cardstock, which is also very popular.
Georgia Pacific is 110 lb. cardstock which works very well. This is one that I generally use.
Neenah Classic Crest is 80 lb. cardstock. I know a lot of people use this, but it can become pretty pricey.
Couture Cardstock is 80 lb. cardstock. This detail blending paper has been endorsed by Sally Lynn MacDonald, Copic Design Team Member.
Caboodles, by The Angel Company, is an 80 lb. cardstock that I also generally use.
Copic Sketchbook is a spiral bound sketch book and is made specifically for Copic use. It is slightly off-white and thinner than cardstock.
Experiment with other papers and see what works best for you. Be sure to test each ink and paper BEFORE you start your project. Copic markers work wonders when the right ink and paper are used.
