LANGUAGE
COPIC HISTORY
Created as first markers which do not dissolve copy machines' toners.
Over the years we managed to increase the number of colors to meet the needs of various markets.
1919
Foundation of Izumiya
Ms. Ishii Soyo opens Izumiya, an art supply store in Tokyo's Shibuya Ward, and begins her career in importing art supplies.
Markers become popular tools among designers and to meet this demand, Izumiya starts importing and selling Speedry Markers, an American brand developed exclusively for this audience.
1963
Import of Speedry Markers begins
1968
Production of Speedry Markers in Japan begins
American Magic marker and Izumiya form a joint venture called 'Magic Marker Corporation Japan' and start domestic production of Speedry Markers.
To work efficiently design professionals relied on copy machines, however the coloring tools available did not perform well combined with photocopies as these dissolved the ink of the printed lines and created smears on the paper.
Izumiya set out to solve this problem and develop the next generation graphic marker that would enable designers to work with freshly printed photocopies without issues. Each component was carefully engineered and manufactured in Japan against highest quality standards, a key criterion for the prototype was also to make it refillable to last longer and reduce waste.
The new marker was aptly named Copic, deriving from the word “copies” and the pale gray chosen was similar to the color of copy machines at the time to create a close link to the origin. With an ergonomic square design and dual nibs, it was launched in 71 colors with matching refills called Various Inks. The original Copic was later named Copic Classic which more than 30 years later remains a beloved iconic tool among creative professionals worldwide.
1987
Launch of Copic markers
1989
71 new colors are added to the Copic Classic marker collection
The color range is doubled to meet the needs of specific shades in architecture and figurative illustration. Toner and Neutral Grays are introduced and with a total of 4 Gray color families this becomes a signature strength of the brand.
Copic continues to learn and adapt to the needs of professional users, to better serve fashion illustrators and architects new shades to the G, YG and E series are added.
1991
72 new colors added to the Copic Classic collection
1992
Izumiya becomes the Too Corporation
On the 70th anniversary of its foundation Izumiya changes its name to Too Corporation. At the same time, Magic Marker Corporation Japan becomes Too Marker Products.
A brand-new drawing experience is introduced which transforms the market. The innovative Super Brush with properties similar to a paint brush was quickly adopted by manga and cartoon illustrators and became the primary tool in many fields of design and crafts. With versatility as its trademark, Copic Sketch made an early commitment to offer the widest color range and to pursue a notably responsive approach to specific color needs of each creative field.
1993
Launch of Copic Sketch
1994
Launch of Copic Multiliners
Sketching and drawing pens are introduced with water-resistant pigment ink to avoid any blurring when used with Copic markers.
An innovative tool to create airbrushed effects with Copic markers is introduced.
1995
Launch of Copic Airbrush Set
1998
Launch of Copic Ciao
A new entry level graphic marker is introduced with a line-up of 72 colors specially selected for beginners.
Copic Sketch expanded its offering to meet the needs of the manga and comic industry professionals.
1999〜2002
96 new colors added to Copic Sketch
2004
Launch of Copic Multiliners SP
To provide a more sustainable option a refillable Multiliner is introduced.
Copic Sketch expanded its range by adding some more 0000 ultra-light shades, as well as several neutral tones.
2006〜2008
24 new colors added to Copic Sketch
2009
Copic receives Good Design and Long Life Design Award
Copic receives Good Design and Long Life Design Award
The range of colors for crafts was expanded once again.
2011〜2012
24 new colors added to Copic Sketch
2013
Our Copic Collection' app is developed and released
A smartphone app was created to help users manage their Copic marker collection.
An official guidebook with extensive technical guidance is published and released bundled with set of select 12 Ciao markers for practice.
2015
Our official guidebook, 'Start with 12 colors'! Copic Illustration for Beginners' is released.
2017
First edition of Copic Award
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Copic markers a yearly Award is launched, it is open to all Copic users worldwide and celebrates the joy of creativity and illustration.
A brand new refill is introduced with an innovative user-friendly design. Copic Ink replaces Various Inks.
2020
Launch of new Copic Ink
2021
Copic Ink receives Good Design Award
Copic Ink was highly evaluated for its shape that not only facilitates and speeds the refill of Copic markers, but also allows the user to enjoy ink art by using the bottle as a drawing item itself.