I use Copic or Prismacolor Markers to create eye-popping representations of all kinds of animals. Copic markers are alcohol based, so they are kind of like watercolors, in that they can be transparent and can be blended if you are quick enough. However, in a way, they are much easier to control than watercolors. My drawings start out with a pencil sketch, then ink outlines, layers of colors are added and subtracted, and finally the ink is reapplied to sharpen edges. I specialize in detail, and typically the focus of my designs is on realistic animal shapes, filled with pattern and color. I use digital illustration when a background is needed but impossible to complete with markers. For example, a soft watercolor wash for the background can't be made on smooth bristol paper (which is the paper used for markers). So I scan the marker drawing and add the background digitally.I also enjoy digital illustration in its entirety for more recent work and am really having fun.