I’m really excited to share with you the Tri-Blend alcohol based markers from Spectrum Noir. I love using alcohol markers for their smooth artistic look but sometimes I have trouble choosing the correct mix of colors to get a nice smooth gradation for shading. So I was really intrigued to hear about the Spectrum Noir Tri-Blend markers. Each marker contains 3 shades of the same color, a light, a medium and a dark so there’s no guessing which colors work best together, they’ve done the work for you and you’ll get an easy controlled blend each time. So when you get one marker it’s like really getting three. This is so convenient to take to classes or traveling and they’ll also take up less storage space in your crafting area. I love the hexagon shape (so they won’t roll off your work space) and each one is clearly marked with colored caps, bands and names so it’s easy to grab the marker you’re looking for. The Tri-Blends are sold individually, in sets of 6 or a box of 24. With my box of 24 markers I really got 72 colors that have a large variety and variation of colors.
For a smooth blend with these markers Spectrum Noir recommends coloring your entire area with the lightest shade, then add a bit of shadow with the darker shade, then over color a bit with the medium then over color a bit with the lightest shade again. This is the method I used with them and found I got a really nice gradation of color and shadow (you’ll find these directions come with the markers).
To really put these markers to the test I created a lovely Snow White Card (shown above) and a fun jungle animal themed Birthday Card. To take a closer look at the makers and see how they work check out my latest video. You can click here to watch it on Youtube or watch it down below.
I hope you’ve enjoyed taking a look at the Tri-Blend Markers from Spectrum Noir. Look for them at your favorite arts and crafts stores or purchase directly on-line by visiting Crafter’s Companion.
-Heather
I have been reading other reviews and they mention that the markers, especially the light ones run out of ink, what then?
Jeanne, it’s true these markers are not sold as refillable I know some people have been able to carefully remove the nibs and refill, I haven’t had one dry out yet so I haven’t tried it. But even if you don’t refill the cost of individual markers is pretty reasonable so I don’t mind replacing them when they dry out if I have too, though I realize that’s not the best environmentally.
-Heather