Blending

Learn smooth color transitions and gradient techniques for stunning depth

Shading

Add dimension with light and shadow for realistic three-dimensional effects

Texture

Create visual interest with stippling, hatching, and pattern techniques

Colored Pencil Techniques

1
Layering

Build up colors gradually with light pressure, adding multiple layers for rich, vibrant tones. Start with lighter colors first.

2
Burnishing

Apply heavy pressure with a light color to blend and smooth earlier layers, creating a polished, waxy finish.

3
Circular Strokes

Use small circular motions to create even coverage without visible stroke marks. Perfect for smooth backgrounds.

4
Cross-Hatching

Create depth and texture with overlapping sets of parallel lines in different directions.

Marker Techniques

1
Flicking

Create quick, light strokes that lift off the paper at the end for natural-looking textures like grass or fur.

2
Feathering

Blend two colors by overlapping their edges with light strokes, creating smooth transitions.

3
Stippling

Use dots instead of strokes to create texture and gradients. Vary dot density for light and shadow.

4
Wet Blending

Work quickly while ink is still wet to blend colors together for smooth gradients (works with alcohol markers).

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