How to Draw with Colored Pencils

Colored pencils have accompanied us throughout almost our entire school life: we used to bring them home from elementary school to color in our homework. However, this should not diminish their prestige, as they are an art material with great potential.

Hello again! Welcome to this article where we are going to learn how to make the most of this material that you undoubtedly already have at home, and with which it is possible to create true wonders.

Characteristics of colored pencils

Before beginning to use colored pencils, it is a good idea to experiment with the materials in order to become familiar with their unique characteristics. Manufacturing processes always lead to some variations: therefore, it is possible that even when buying two boxes of colored pencils from the same brand, there may be some slight differences in color.

Shading

Experiment with shading and gradients for each color to observe the softness of the lead and the intensity of the pigment.

Color harmony

Then move on to the next step: make color transitions to see how the shades blend together. You will see that one color can dominate another, or, on the contrary, that some do not match very well.

Color layering

Create shapes with two or more colors without mixing them, in order to observe how color relativity applies in each case.

How to use colored pencils

Here are two techniques you can incorporate into your creations to achieve different results:

Layering light layers to blend shades

An effective and pleasant way to mix colors is to layer them. To do this, color gently and evenly, alternating the shades needed to achieve the desired combination.

Polishing or smoothing paper

Often, paper has a certain texture, which is noticeable when you color on it. If you want a smoother and shinier finish, use a light color and apply a firm layer of color, which will have the effect of smoothing the paper's surface.

How to draw an eye with colored pencils

Choose a sketch or a drawing to color in. Once chosen, prepare all the colors you have: the more, the better! Even if you have ten reds, each will have a slightly different shade.

Personally, I like to define the deepest areas from the start, it helps me understand the drawing better through contrast.

Add shading

Choose the color that will serve as the base for your drawing and gently cover the area with short, delicate strokes. Then continue to layer with the different colors you want to use.

To ensure a smooth transition between shades, avoid abrupt breaks by creating gradients. The lightest stroke should go over the base color, then, as it gets further away, gradually evolve towards the pure color.

If the available shades are not dark enough, add a layer of complementary color: this will achieve a darker, yet equally saturated shade. You can also use a relatively darker shade if you wish to slightly alter the tone. This same method can also be used to lighten some colors.

We have come to the end of this article!

I hope these tips and exercises will be helpful for you to fully exploit the potential of this sometimes underestimated material. So, no more excuses: take the plunge and add some color to your drawings!

Writer and Illustrator: Bryam