Using colored paper

Sometimes, we need to get back to basics, and what better way than using colored (medium tone) paper and black and white pencils?

From a simple still life to more complex colorful drawings, using colorful paper helps you think outside the box or may encourage you to try a range of colors you may tend to steer away from after you've begun your sketch with black and white.

Start with a simple sketch of a basic still life arrangement, then expand upon it with more complexity as you become more comfortable.  Experiment with colored pencils, pens, and pastels . . . use various blending tools (cotton swabs, cotton balls, rolled paper stumps, etc.) as the oils from your fingertips may affect the pencil/pastel you use.  Once you're comfortable with pencils/pastels/crayons, delve into paint and use the same principles for blending.

Remember to enhance your darkest shadows and highlight the brightest areas for good contrast, and then work in the mid tones to bring it all together. Enjoy!

Blog post by Stephanie Bogalis, President.


Still Life (with Pheasant) ©1993 Rod Holt