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featured artist

Archie Dale

Found In:
I Feel Old

Discover Crayola All Grown Up

“I try not to think about what I’m doing. I let the story take me where it will.”

— Jack Kirby

Who was your creative inspiration or mentor?

While I didn’t have a single mentor, I grew up inspired by comic book legends like Joe Kubert, Jack Kirby, and Will Eisner, who shaped my approach to storytelling and design.

What made you the most excited for this Crayola Project?

Working on I Feel Old was a blast, especially since I was in high school in the ’90s—yes, I’m that old!

 

Which Creative Moment are you most proud of?

A creative moment I was most proud of for me was blending two distinct visual styles that normally wouldn’t work together. It was a risk, but it resulted in something unique that truly stood out.

How does your creativity impact those around you?

It encourages collaboration. When people see ideas taking shape, it sparks more ideas and raises the overall level of the work.

What challenges have you faced as an artist? 

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing creative quality with tight deadlines and client expectations. There are always projects I’d love to spend more time on, but that’s rarely the reality.

Did you ever think about stopping?

No, I’d never quit—I’m having too much fun.

Tips & Tricks

Follow these tips and tricks for a relaxing creative experience.

  • Absolutely! We've put together these quick tips to help get you started with Crayola Alcohol-Based Markers:

    • Test colors on scrap paper or on the included swatch card(s) before applying to your artwork.

    • For the best blending experience, choose two or three markers within the same color family that share similar intensity and tonal value. Start with the darker color, then laydown the lighter color next to it. Use the lighter color’s brush end to blend and soften where the two colors meet. 

    • Practice layering and blending techniques on simple shapes before tackling detailed art. 

    • Uncoated paper works best.

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

     

  • Crayola Alcohol-based Markers use an alcohol-based ink instead of water-based ink. This gives them:

    • Smooth blending: Colors mix seamlessly for gradients and shading.

    • Vibrant, consistent color: Less streaking

    • Quick drying: Reduces smudging and allows layering with minimal impact to paper

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


  • Yes! Blending is one of the biggest advantages of alcohol-based markers. There are several ways:

    Choose two or three markers within the same color family that share similar intensity and tonal value. Start with the darker color, then laydown the lighter color next to it. Use the lighter color’s brush end to blend and soften where the two colors meet. 

    Alternatively, use a colorless blender marker: Helps soften edges and create smooth transitions. Use where two colors meet to blend together (included in the Crayola 40ct, 60ct, and 120ct sets). It can also be used to lighten darker areas or add highlights, operating similarly to how an eraser works. 

    Layer similar shades: Start with light tones and gradually add darker ones. Allow ink to dry before adding the next layer. 

    Work while wet: Blending is easiest when ink is fresh on the page.

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

  • Absolutely! Alcohol-based Markers work best on paper, but are versatile tools for many creative projects, including:

    • Illustrations and comic art: Ideal for smooth shading and vibrant colors.

    • Card making and scrapbooking: Adds professional-quality color to handmade crafts.

    • Calligraphy and lettering: Great for bold, colorful designs.

    • Mixed media art: Works well with pencils, pens, and even watercolors for layered effects.

    • DIY projects: Customize items like gift tags, planner pages, home décor and decorative accents.

    Just be sure to protect your work surface, and test on inconspicuous areas first to ensure you are satisfied with the outcome on the material. Crayola Alcohol-based Markers contain colorants that may stain and are permanent on most surfaces. 

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

  • • Cap tightly to prevent drying

    • Avoid extreme temperatures

    • Do not store artwork or markers in direct sunlight

    Make sure to check out Crayola’s 20ct, 40ct, 60ct, 80ct and 120ct sets—each include a transformable case that sets up on your desk to display and store your markers at the best angle. 

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

  • Acrylic markers are designed to work on a wide variety of surfaces, making them a versatile choice for many creative projects. They can be used on materials such as wood, glass, metal, plastic, ceramic, paper, canvas, and more.

    These markers deliver bold, opaque color on both light and dark surfaces and can be layered to build depth and coverage.

    For best results:

    • Clean or prep your surface before starting for smoother application
    • Allow paint to dry between layers for best coverage
    • Seal artwork on smooth, non-porous surfaces for added permanency

     

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

Experience Crayola All Grown Up

Coloring Books

A special collection of coloring books created with nostalgia and relaxation in mind.

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Alcohol Markers

Built to provide adults with the flexibility and creativity desired by new and advanced users.

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Adult Coloring Pages

Comfy and cozy, nostalgia-filled, intricate, and humor-filled coloring pages made for adults.

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