Colored Pencils Tutorial

Materials Needed

• Professional-grade colored pencils
• Drawing paper (smooth, heavyweight)
• Colorless blender pencil
• Kneaded eraser
• Pencil sharpener
• Workable fixative
• Scrap paper for testing

Basic Techniques

1. Layering

Essential layering techniques:

• Start with light pressure
• Build up color gradually
• Layer complementary colors
• Create rich, deep tones

2. Blending Methods

Different ways to blend:

• Burnishing technique
• Using colorless blender
• Solvent blending
• Cross-hatching blend

3. Color Theory

Understanding color relationships:

• Color wheel basics
• Complementary colors
• Temperature control
• Creating depth

Practice Exercise

Create a simple still life:

1. Sketch basic shapes lightly
2. Layer base colors
3. Build up shadows and highlights
4. Add final details and textures
5. Apply fixative to protect work

Tips for Success

• Keep pencils sharp for detail work
• Work from light to dark colors
• Test colors on scrap paper first
• Use light pressure for initial layers
• Take breaks to avoid hand fatigue
• Store pencils horizontally to prevent breakage