Coloring is not just for kids anymore; it’s a trend that has adults picking up their pencils, crayons, and markers to destress and ignite their creativity.
And rightfully so, as coloring has been proven to be an excellent way to unwind and experience mindfulness.
But, how can you take your coloring game to the next level and truly feel like a pro?
I love coloring and, I’m excited to share with you my best tips and tricks.
- I personally use and love these coloring pencils because the quality is great without breaking the bank. Plus, they blend beautifully, making it easy to create stunning artwork.
- Looking for more inspiration? Check out my favorite coloring books for adults. There’s bound to be a design that catches your eye.
1. Choose Your Coloring Tools Wisely
The very first thing you need to consider when you start coloring is which tools are best for the task.
There is a wide range of coloring tools available now, from traditional coloring pencils, markers, and crayons to the more sophisticated pastels, gel pens, and even watercolors.
What’s the best option?
Well, that mostly depends on your personal preference and the desired result. For instance, if you’re after a rich, vibrant look, markers might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you enjoy blending colors and prefer a more subtle finish, then coloring pencils would be a wiser choice.
- Personally, I always recommend beginners start with quality coloring pencils since they offer more control and are more forgiving than markers.
- In need of a great set? Check out this amazing collection that has all the essential colors you’ll ever need.
2. Learn the Different Techniques
Now that you’ve chosen your coloring tools, it’s time to start practicing different techniques. To truly color like a pro, you need to know how to create various effects, from shading and blending to highlighting and adding texture.
Here are a few techniques to get you started:
Shading
Practice applying different levels of pressure to create lighter and darker shades. This gives your coloring more depth and dimension, making it look more professional and polished.
Blending
This technique is particularly important when working with coloring pencils. By blending, you can create smooth transitions between colors or simply soften out the overall look. This can be achieved by carefully coloring over the existing colors in small, circular motions.
Highlighting
You can use a white or lighter colored pencil to add highlights to your coloring. This will help give your work more depth and make the colors pop even more.
3. Color Selection Matters
Picking the right color combinations is a vital aspect of coloring like a pro, and it’s something that too many beginners overlook. Make it a habit to take your time and carefully consider your color choices before diving in.
Think about the mood you’re aiming to create. Warm colors can convey energy and excitement, while cooler tones can create a calm, serene atmosphere. Don’t just grab any color; choose them with intention.
One trick to elevate your coloring is to use complementary colors. These are colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, like blue and orange, or red and green. Using these in tandem can make your work really stand out and give it that ‘wow’ factor.
If you’re scratching your head over color choices, don’t fret! Grab (affiliate link) this essential color theory guide. It’s a lifesaver for understanding which colors work best together and why. It’s like having a color wizard right at your fingertips!
4.Practice Consistently
It takes practice, practice, and more practice. S
et aside some time each day, even if it’s just 10 minutes, to hone your skills. Experiment with different styles and techniques. The more you color, the more you’ll develop your own unique style.
Remember, every pro was once a beginner. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t look perfect right away. Even the most experienced artists had to start somewhere. Keep pushing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep having fun with it!
5.Join a Coloring Community
Coloring doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. There are tons of coloring communities out there where you can share your work, get feedback, and connect with other colorists. These communities are goldmines for learning new techniques, discovering trends, and finding inspiration.
Joining a community can also be incredibly motivating.
Seeing other people’s beautiful work can inspire you to try new things and push your boundaries. Plus, it’s always more fun when you can share your passion with others.
Wrapping Up
Now you know the essential tips and tricks for coloring like a pro. Remember to choose your tools carefully, learn different techniques, practice consistently, and join a coloring community.
And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun with it all!
