Shading with coloured pencils could be challenging for many because of their wax-like consistency. There are various things you could do with a coloured pencil - blend two colours, layer, scribble, or add texture. If you learn the techniques, it can add depth, vibrancy and texture to your piece of art. Here are some tips for shading with coloured pencils that will make you a pro in no time.
1. Learn Basic Shading Techniques
- Hatching: Draw lines in the same direction parallelly. The closer the lines, the darker the effect is. As per your desired level of darkness, you might need to draw in a few layers. This technique works best with smooth coloured pencils like Camlin Artist Colour Pencils. Their break-resistant leads let you layer and draw close lines to build depth.
- Cross-Hatching: Overlay lines at angles to get even richer textures. For this technique, you can use Camlin Colour Pencils for a comfortable grip and effortless shading, even during long sessions.
- Scribbles: Draw squiggly lines, starting from light to dark to create texture. The loosely drawn lines help to get a light texture. To get darker shades, draw over the existing lines with more pressure and darker colours.
- Layer and Blend: Use the side of the pencil with light pressure to build up layers gradually. For example, if you use red and blue, layer each colour lightly and then overlap them in the middle to create smooth transitions and unique colour combinations.
2. Perfect Your Grip and Pressure
Holding your coloured pencil correctly can make your shading ten times better. If you want to shade lightly, hold the pencil sideways. The Camlin Half-size Colour Pencils are designed for smaller hands. They offer a comfortable grip and are ideal for young artists practising shading. For detailed work, the fine tips of the Camel Artist Colour Pencils allow controlled pressure and precision.
3. Avoid Black and White for Shadows and Highlights
Instead of relying on black or white, use deep blues or indigos for shadows and pale golds for highlights. Opt for coloured pencil packs with a versatile range of shades to create dynamic highlights and shadows without compromising vibrancy.
4. Burnish for a Professional Finish
Burnishing is a technique used to create an opaque look similar to oil colours, acrylic colours or airbrush. Burnishing smooths out colours, removing any visible pencil strokes. Burnishing is possible with Camlin Artist Colour Pencils. These highly pigmented and wax-based pencils ensure rich, blendable colours. Use the blank swatch card that comes with it to test shades before using them in your work.
5. Use the Right Colour Pencils
Choosing the right pencils can make or break the outcome of your artwork. Good quality coloured pencils, like the Camlin Colour Pencils range or the Camlin Artist Colour Pencils range are designed to serve different artistic needs:
- Camlin Colour Pencils: Available in three variants—Half-size, full-size, and premium triangular—these pencils feature break-resistant, smooth leads for vibrant colouring. Their ergonomic designs and soft leads make them ideal for blending, sketching, and layering, perfect for both beginners and young artists.
- Camlin Artist Colour Pencils: Crafted with premium pigments and cedar wood, these pencils are perfect for professional artists. Their wax-based leads offer a buttery texture, ensuring smooth application and effortless blending for detailed work or bold gradients.
6. Do Not Rub Off Any Mistakes Harshly
Rubbing mistakes can damage your paper. Use a kneaded eraser to blot errors gently. Keep your coloured pencils in the box to ensure they are stored securely and ready for your next masterpiece.
Unleash Your Creativity with Camel Colour Pencils
From beginners exploring the vibrant pigment, ease and different shading techniques with coloured pencils to professionals mastering intricate details, Camlin’s range of Colour Pencils offers something for every artist. With options like the Premium Triangular Colour Pencils for comfort and precision or the Artist Colour Pencils for smooth, blendable results, your journey to shading like a pro begins with the right tools. Explore the endless possibilities and bring your artistic visions to life with Camel and Camlin.
Did this article help you learn something new?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Leave a comment
Comment added
Comment updated
Comment deleted
More inspiration
“
“Don’t be conscious.There will be someone, somewhere who will appreciate your work.”
Did this article help you learn something new?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Leave a comment
Comment added
Comment updated
Comment deleted
More inspiration
“
“Don’t be conscious.There will be someone, somewhere who will appreciate your work.”