Drawing With Colored Pencils - Advanced Techniques For Intermediates

Drawing with Colored Pencils: Unleash Your Inner Artist with Advanced Techniques for Intermediates

Colored pencils are a versatile and accessible medium for artists of all skill levels. While beginners often start with simple techniques, intermediates have the opportunity to explore more advanced methods that can elevate their artwork to new heights. Whether you're a hobbyist or aspiring professional, these advanced techniques will help you unlock the full potential of your colored pencils and create stunning, vibrant drawings that command attention.

1. Layering and Blending:

Layering is a fundamental technique in colored pencil drawing that allows you to build up colors gradually, creating depth and dimension in your artwork. Start by applying light pressure with your pencils and gradually increase it as you add more layers. Experiment with different colors, blending them together to create smooth transitions and gradients. You can blend colors directly on the paper using a blending stump, or by layering lighter colors over darker ones to achieve a blended effect.

2. Burnishing:

Burnishing is a technique that involves applying heavy pressure to the colored pencils, smoothing out the texture of the paper and creating a polished, glossy finish. This technique is particularly effective for rendering shiny or reflective surfaces such as glass or metal. Use a colorless blender pencil or a white pencil to burnish your artwork, working in small circular motions to blend and smooth the colors together.

3. Texturizing and Crosshatching:

Texturizing is a technique that adds texture and detail to your drawings, giving them a more realistic and tactile feel. Experiment with different stroke patterns and pressures to create various textures, whether it's the rough bark of a tree or the soft fur of an animal. Crosshatching is another technique that involves layering lines in different directions to create depth and shading. Vary the spacing and angle of your lines to achieve different effects and add dimension to your artwork.

4. Incorporating Mixed Media:

Colored pencils can be combined with other mediums to enhance and complement your drawings. Experiment with watercolor pencils to create vibrant washes or add a touch of water to your colored pencil work for a painterly effect. You can also use pastels or markers to create bold highlights or accents, adding a dynamic element to your artwork.

5. Experimenting with Different Surfaces:

Don't limit yourself to traditional drawing paper; explore different surfaces to add an extra dimension to your colored pencil drawings. Experiment with toned or colored papers to create unique backgrounds or try using textured surfaces like canvas or wood for a more tactile feel. Each surface will react differently to your colored pencils, four Gnomes offering new opportunities for creativity and expression.

Remember, practice is key to mastering these advanced techniques. Dedicate time to experiment, play with different color combinations, and push the boundaries of your creativity. With patience and persistence, you'll be amazed at the progress you can make and the stunning drawings you can create with colored pencils.

So, pick up your colored pencils, let your imagination run wild, and embark on an artistic journey that will bring your drawings to life. With these advanced techniques, you'll be well on your way to becoming a skilled colored pencil artist, ready to showcase your talent to the world.