Exploring Colored Pencil Techniques: Personal Favorites and Tips
Exploring Colored Pencil Techniques: Personal Favorites and Tips
Colored pencils offer a versatile medium that allows for both intricate details and broad strokes. Each technique has its own unique benefits depending on the desired outcome. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular colored pencil techniques, including layering, blending, and use of solvents, by comparing them with other mediums like watercolor.
Layering Softly for a Subtle Effect
Layering is one of the fundamental techniques in colored pencil art, allowing for depth, warmth, and a smooth, almost seamless finish. Layering softly and blending as you go is a practice that many artists, like Lucy, find effective. This method involves applying thin, even layers of color over the entire area, gradually building up the intensity. Rather than pressing hard on the pencil, which can strain your hand and wrist, it is better to apply color lightly and build up the layers gradually. This approach also minimizes the risk of visible layer lines, giving the final piece a uniform appearance.
To demonstrate the power of layering, consider this comparison with watercolor. In the watercolor piece, the emphasis is on achieving a smooth gradient and a softer, more gradated blend. With colored pencils, the same effect can be achieved by layering transparent and semi-transparent colors over each other, creating a similar dreamy and soft look, but with the added benefit of greater color intensity.
Using Odorless Mineral Spirits for Blending
While layering is a go-to technique for many, some artists prefer to use odorless mineral spirits for blending. This method involves applying a small amount of mineral spirits with a brush or cotton swab to soften and blend the colored pencil layers.
For example, after layering, Emily might use odorless mineral spirits to soften the edges of her colored pencil work. This technique is particularly useful in areas like the eye where a smooth, blended finish is essential. By using these solvents, she can achieve a more seamless and natural blend, enhancing the overall harmony of the artwork.
This blend technique is demonstrated in the colored pencil piece where Emily has used odorless mineral spirits to blend the background, creating a harmonious transition between colors without visible layer lines.
No Burnishing for Me
Burnishing, a technique where you apply a lot of pressure to smoothen the pencil marks, is not for everyone. Todd, for instance, rarely burnishes his work. While burnishing can create a very smooth, polished surface, it can be quite strenuous and may strain your hand and wrist over time. Instead, Todd prefers to layer softly and blend as he goes.
However, if Todd does need a more polished finish in a specific area, such as the eye, he might take the time to burnish it. This technique is demonstrated in a piece where Todd has only burnished the eye, leaving the rest of the drawing blended using numerous layers.
In contrast to burnishing, Todd’s choice to avoid using paper stumps is a strategic one. Todd finds that paper stumps can leave unwanted marks on the paper, making them less than ideal for delicate areas. Therefore, he prefers to layer and blend softly without the use of such tools.
Blending with Watercolor Pencils
If you are looking for a piece with a more fanciful look, blending with watercolor pencils is an excellent choice. Watercolor pencils, when used properly, can create a unique look that is reminiscent of traditional watercolor.
Nina, for instance, prefers the soft and pastel spectrum of colors she can achieve with watercolor pencils. By blending via water color pencils, she can achieve a smooth, harmonious look with the added benefit of maintaining the pastel essence she cherishes. This technique is particularly useful for creating subtle gradients and soft transitions between colors, giving the artwork a dreamy, ethereal quality.
The overall benefit of using watercolor pencils for blending is that it allows for a natural, watercolor-like effect while still retaining the texture and vibrancy of colored pencils. This technique is ideal for creating more abstract or whimsical pieces where a soft, ethereal finish is desired.
Conclusion
The choice of technique comes down to the desired outcome and the personal preference of the artist. Layering, using solvents for blending, avoiding burnishing, and blending with watercolor pencils are just a few of the many techniques available to colored pencil artists. Each method has its strengths and can be used to create stunning pieces that capture the viewer’s attention.