Layering With ONLY 12 Colored Pencils | Polychromos Tutorial

Summary

In this art tutorial, the focus is on color pencil layering techniques, particularly for those with a limited color set. The artist demonstrates how to create a rose bud drawing using only 12 pencils, emphasizing the importance of starting with light base layers and gradually building up to darker shades. Key tips include holding the pencil mid-way to avoid heavy pressure, using circular motions for smoothness, and keeping the pencil sharp for precision. The tutorial also touches on color theory, adjusting colors by layering complementary hues, and concludes with burnishing to blend and smooth the final artwork.

Takeaways

• 🎨 Layering with color pencils is about gradually building up color with light layers to create new shades.
• 🖍️ Start with light base layers using the closest color to each section of the drawing, keeping the pressure light to allow for multiple layers.
• 🌿 When working with a limited color set, use color theory to mix colors by layering, such as red and blue to create purple.
• 🔍 Begin with lighter colors and progress to darker ones, mapping out key shapes and gradually adding depth.
• ✏️ Hold the pencil mid-way down for lightness and control, and use circular motions for smooth layering.
• 📈 Sharpen the pencil to ensure a consistent application and precise control, especially for detailed areas.
• 🍃 For areas like leaves and stems, use the base layer to block in shapes and plan for color adjustments later.
• 🖌️ Use darker shades to define shadows and depth, but maintain light pressure to keep the layering process flexible.
• 🔄 Revisit areas with lighter colors to adjust and enhance vibrancy, using reference photos to guide color additions.
• 💡 Burnishing, or pressing firmly after layering, helps to smooth and blend colors, finishing the drawing with a polished look.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is about layering color pencils, specifically focusing on techniques for layering when you have a limited set of colors.

What does the term 'layering' mean in the context of color pencils?

In the context of color pencils, 'layering' refers to the technique of gradually building up color by applying a series of very light layers of pencil on top of each other, which blend to create new colors.

How does the artist suggest starting the layering process?

The artist suggests starting the layering process by applying base layers, beginning with lighter colors and working towards darker colors, using a light touch to map out the key shapes and areas of the drawing.

Why is it important to keep the initial layers light when layering color pencils?

Keeping the initial layers light is important because it allows for the application of multiple layers without the risk of over-saturation, enabling the artist to build up color gradually and make adjustments more easily.

What is the purpose of using a sharp pencil when creating base layers?

Using a sharp pencil for base layers helps in achieving a more consistent application of color and allows for better control, resulting in smoother and more precise lines.

How does the artist approach the layering of the rose bud in the drawing?

The artist approaches the layering of the rose bud by starting with a red base layer for the pink areas, then gradually adding other colors like magenta for shadows, and adjusting the colors by adding blues, greens, and browns to achieve the desired effect.

What role does color theory play in the layering process when working with a limited color set?

Color theory plays a crucial role when working with a limited color set, as it helps the artist to mix and layer colors to create new shades and tones that may not be available in the set, by understanding how different colors blend and interact.

What technique does the artist use to smooth out and finish the layered colors?

The artist uses a technique called 'burnishing' to smooth out and finish the layered colors. This involves pressing firmly with the pencil after all layering is done to create a smooth and polished appearance.

How does the artist adjust the colors to achieve the final look of the rose bud?

The artist adjusts the colors by comparing the drawing to the reference photo and identifying which colors are missing or need to be intensified. They then layer additional colors, such as blues, reds, and browns, to enhance the vibrancy and contrast.

What additional resource does the artist mention for learning more about burnishing?

The artist mentions a video on burnishing as an additional resource for learning more about the technique and when to use it, which is available for viewers interested in further understanding this aspect of color pencil layering.