Colored pencils are one of the friendliest art supplies you can pick up. You already know how to hold one. What most of us figure out by trial and error is that four small habits change the whole look of a finished piece.
1. Light Pressure, Many Layers
The instinct is to press harder for more color. It's a reasonable instinct and it backfires. Heavy pressure:
Instead, use light, even pressure and build up your colors gradually. Think of it like watercolor - you can always add more, but you can't take it away.
Light pressure creates a smooth look - Photo by Lucas George Wendt on Unsplash
2. Sharpen Often
A sharp point gives you control. Sharpen every few minutes of active coloring. A dull point:
3. Work in Circles
Instead of back-and-forth strokes, try small circular motions. This technique:
Remember: Light pressure, complete coverage and within the lines is all you need to get a lovely finish. The rest is embellishment!
4. Darker Edges, Lighter Centers
To make shapes look 3D, keep edges darker and centers lighter. Our brains read this as form and volume.