Try to keep a consistent pressure when using the back and forward strokes to make the color look even.
Experiment with different sized circular motions on scrap paper to figure out which style you like best. To darken the color, simply overlap the small circles. Similarly, to lighten the color, use slightly larger circles and spread them out a little more.
This is perfect for drawing sky and water, as it allows you to create the different shades that are found in nature. This helps to make your drawings look more realistic. If you find that you are breaking the lead in your pencil, press a little lighter and color over the same section a few times to achieve the same depth of color.
Draw the lines close together to create deep, solid colors, or separate the lines a little to make the color look lighter and more dispersed. Make the lines the same color to create a solid color, or use different colors to make a pattern. Hatching is perfect for shading large areas, and is a great way to add depth to hills, grass, clothing, and skies. Consider making an entire drawing out of hatching lines. This can look quite striking!
Use the same color for both sets of lines to create a solid color. Alternatively, use different colors to create a striking layered effect.
Blue and yellow create green, red and blue make purple, and red and yellow create orange. Use different shades of the same color to create a medium shade. For example, layer a light blue over a dark blue to create a medium blue.
Colorless pencils are sometimes known as blender pencils because of their brilliant blending abilities. Purchase a colorless pencil from an art or stationery store.
Always use rubbing alcohol in a ventilated area, as it has strong fumes. This technique works best on heavy paper.
Soft lead pencils generally cost a little more than regular colored pencils, but you will notice the quality difference between the pencils. Good pencils range from $5-50, depending on how many colors you want to buy. These pencils are the best option for all skill levels. Hard leads can be frustrating to use because they break easily.
If you don’t have a soft pencil case, use a soft make-up bag instead.
Avoid sharpening your pencils with a craft knife, as this can damage the wood in the pencil.
