An Introduction to Coloured Pencils

Have you ever looked at a stunning coloured pencil drawing and thought, "I wish I could create something like that"?

Prepare to be amazed by the world of coloured pencils!

With just a few simple techniques, you can find your hidden creative spark and turn ordinary drawings into breathtaking works of art. Say goodbye to flat, lifeless sketches and hello to pieces that burst with depth, texture, and vivid colours that leap off the page.

In this exciting journey, you'll learn to wield your coloured pencils like a master, creating a sense of realism that will leave viewers in awe. From capturing the subtlest nuances of nature to blending and layering colours, you'll discover the true power of this versatile medium.

But we're not just here to teach you coloured pencil techniques - we want to help you find your unique artistic voice and go beyond merely replicating what you see.

Get ready to start an adventure that will ignite your passion for art and bring joy into your life through the simple act of creating.

Where do you start when it comes to choosing the right pencils, paper, and techniques?

Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Our approach breaks down the fundamentals of coloured pencil drawing into easy, bite-sized lessons perfect for complete beginners. We'll explore a wide range of artist-quality pencil brands and show you how to find the ones that work best for your style and budget.

For those with a little more experience, we'll go beyond the basics with advanced techniques and demonstrations to expand your skills.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve, our simple, engaging, and actionable lessons ensure you can quickly absorb and apply these new coloured pencil skills.

Have you ever seen a coloured pencil drawing so realistic that you had to do a double-take?

Is this Barn Owl a photo or coloured pencil? Find the answer at the bottom of the page.

The vibrant hues and intricate details can be downright mind-blowing when mastered by a skilled artist. But how do they achieve such depth and richness with humble colored pencils?

The secret lies in the unique translucency of the medium.

By layering pigments, artists can create an infinite array of colours that blend and meld in breathtaking ways. From the smoothest gradients to the brightest highlights, each stroke adds nuance and dimension.

So don't underestimate the power of the coloured pencil. In the right hands, it can produce artworks as striking as any oil painting or photograph...

Take this barn owl, for example. Photo or pencil drawing?

Making the most of colour

The ability to breathe life into any subject - from sweeping landscapes to intimate still life scenes or realistic animals - is what makes coloured pencils such a captivating medium.

However, achieving those rich, saturated colours takes a bit of know-how.

Many artists struggle with muddy, dull pencil work because they don't understand colour theory.

On this site, you'll not only explore colour theory but learn the insider tricks to make your coloured pencil art pop off the page.

Adjusting the pressure can completely transform a colour's impact, with light strokes creating gentle washes and heavy pressure producing bright, lively hues.

Pencil strokes like cross-hatching and stippling add incredible depth and texture.

Creating Depth and Dimension with Coloured Pencils

Have you ever marvelled at how a simple coloured pencil drawing can look almost three-dimensional?

The secret lies in the ability to indicate depth and realism on a flat surface through meticulous layering and blending of shades. Colored pencils are more than just tools for adding splashes of colour - in the hands of a skilled artist, they can bring drawings to life.

However, mastering the art of colored pencil drawing requires more than just a box of pencils and a sketchpad. It demands a delicate touch, a keen eye for detail, and an understanding of how colours interact.

Imagine being able to render the velvety petals of a rose, the intricate feathers of a bird, or the weathered textures of an ancient monument – all with the humble coloured pencil.

By maintaining a loose grip for precision and control, layering colours slowly to avoid murkiness, and considering the paper's texture for desired effects, you can learn the true potential of this medium.

With practice and commitment, and learning the basics of coloured pencil art you can create stunning artwork that captures the world's beauty in all its glory.

So grab your pencils, let your creativity flow, and explore this fantastic medium.

And that owl?

Carol Leather drew the owl shown further up the page using coloured pencils. But you already guessed it was a drawing, didn't you?