Using different techniques and experimenting with contrast while layering will prove to be an essential part of creating realistic images. [4] X Expert Source Rebecca SchweigerProfessional Artist & Art School Founder Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
Practice keeping each stroke relatively straight. This will keep your shading even and uniform. [6] X Research source This is probably how you started drawing when you were younger. You just probably never knew the name for it![7] X Research source If you want to make certain areas darker while using the back and forth stroke, change the amount of pressure you’re applying to the paper. [8] X Expert Source Rebecca SchweigerProfessional Artist & Art School Founder Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
You can also scumble by using figure-eights to create a smoother texture. Similarly, you can scumble by using shaky lines to create a rougher texture. [10] X Research source
You typically want to keep your lines as straight as possible to ensure a uniform pattern. Hatching is often used to create unique forms and add volume to a shape.
Stippling can be impressive because it adds a unique weight to each object in a drawing. [13] X Research source Just keep in mind that it can take a long time if you’re using it to create an entire piece!
You probably want to use the back and forth technique for the initial layers since it’s the easiest way to fill in colors evenly. Start with the lightest colors first. It’s easier to make something darker with colored pencils, but it can be difficult to make something lighter without erasing anything.
Pay close attention to the way light is hitting your subject. The darker areas of a face require more layers than lighter ones. [17] X Expert Source Rebecca SchweigerProfessional Artist & Art School Founder Expert Interview. 19 November 2021. Make sure that you’re not using the wrong technique to add texture to the hair. If your subject’s hair is curly, scumbling makes sense. But if it’s straight and flat, you probably want to use hatching.
Pick appropriate techniques for each feature. Eyebrows are often created with hatching lines, while stippling is often used to add depth to the eyes.
The white of the eye isn’t actually white. It’s usually a thin shade of blue and red. [20] X Research source
You can use a white colored pencil if you’d like, but the highlight will be muddier and less vibrant. [23] X Research source When using an eraser to blend, be careful about how much pressure you apply. This should be done sparingly and carefully.
Some illustrators prefer to start by adding color to the focal point, since your focal point will often have the most detail in your drawing. [25] X Research source
Many artists use the back and forth method for large areas of sky, but may use hatching or scumbling for grass or clouds.
Avoid applying color to objects in your foreground at first. This will help you later on when you add objects to your foreground. [28] X Research source For skies, the darkest part of the drawing should likely be where the sky meets the horizon. [29] X Research source
You don’t need to know what every single stroke is going to be. The key when layering colored pencils is to make layers of color the right size and texture to achieve a certain shape. [31] X Research source The closer you are to the foreground, the more detail and value you want in your drawing. [32] X Research source
Shadows don’t necessarily need to be black. For example, the shadow on a blade of grass is probably going to be a darker green. [35] X Research source [36] X Expert Source Rebecca SchweigerProfessional Artist & Art School Founder Expert Interview. 19 November 2021.
