What do the colour codes mean on the caps of Crayola Alcohol-based Markers?

Each alcohol-based marker cap includes a colour code to help identify the shade inside and keep your markers organized.

The letters at the beginning of the code show the general colour family the marker belongs to. Examples:

• G / LG / YG / BG / GB – Green family

• B / LB / DB / VB – Blue family

• R / DR / RV – Red and red violet family

• Y / LY / BY – Yellow family

• BR – Browns

• WG / TG / CG / EG / DG – Grays 

• CLR – Colourless blender

The numbers after the alpha prefixes are for our scientists to keep track of secret formulas, but can be useful for finding an exact colour again; however, they don’t classify the colour’s intensity or how light or dark it is. The best way to choose a shade is by referencing the colour name and swatch card laydowns. 

Download our printable Alcohol Marker Colour Chart to create your own custom colour swatches. Be sure to place a blotter sheet beneath your page to help protect your work surface while colouring.

Visit www.crayola.com/AllGrownUp to explore the full collection.

If you have additional questions, we would love to hear from you! Feel free to call or text us at 1-800-CRAYOLA weekdays between 9 AM and 4 PM Eastern Time. If you would prefer to send us an email, visit our contact us page.