COLORING HACKS FOR STUNNING PAGES
I love coloring books, and I’m sure many of you do too! It’s a great way to relax, destress and unleash your creativity.
However, sometimes we may get stuck in a rut when it comes to coloring techniques.
In this guide, I’ll share some amazing coloring hacks that will take your pages from ordinary to extraordinary!
Creating Depth with Layering
One of the simplest but most effective coloring hacks is layering. Layering involves using multiple shades of the same color to create depth and dimension in your coloring pages.
Start by choosing a base color, then use lighter and darker shades of that color to add depth. You can also use different mediums such as markers, colored pencils or watercolors for each layer to create unique effects.
Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for your coloring style. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to layer – just have fun and let your creativity flow!
Blending with Baby Oil
Did you know that baby oil can be used as a blending tool for colored pencils?
This hack is perfect for creating smooth gradients and even blending two colors together seamlessly.
Simply add a small amount of baby oil to a cotton swab or paper towel and gently blend the colors together. Make sure to test this technique on a scrap piece of paper first to see how the colors react with the oil.
Not only does this hack save you money on expensive blending tools, but it also adds a nice shine and polish to your coloring pages.
Adding Highlights with White Gel Pen
White gel pens are a must-have for any coloring enthusiast. They can be used to add highlights, create texture or even correct small mistakes.
When coloring with markers or watercolors, leave some areas of your page uncolored and use a white gel pen to add in highlights. This will give your pages a more realistic and three-dimensional look.
Gel pens can also be used to create intricate patterns or add small details to your coloring pages. Get creative and see how you can incorporate white gel pen into your coloring techniques.
Know Your Color Wheel
This might sound basic, but trust me, it’s CRUCIAL! The color wheel isn’t just for art class – it can be a powerful tool for coloring as well.
Understanding complementary colors (colors opposite each other on the wheel) and how they interact with each other can take your coloring to the next level. You can use this knowledge to create vibrant color schemes or add contrast to your pages.
Take some time to experiment with different color combinations and see how they work together. You might be surprised at the beautiful results you can achieve.
Personalize with Patterns
Don’t limit yourself to just coloring inside the lines – why not add some patterns and designs of your own?
Use a fine-tipped pen or marker to add small details, such as polka dots, stripes, or floral patterns, to your coloring pages. This will give them a unique and personal touch.
You can also use stencils or stamps to add more intricate patterns. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!
Always Test Your Colors First
My personal experience has taught me this, never apply a color directly to your artwork without testing it first.
Use scrap paper to try out the colour and the blending it makes a massive difference. I repeat, MASSIVE! This will help you avoid any unwanted surprises on your final piece.
Also, remember to test the colors on the same paper you’ll be using for your artwork. Different papers can react differently with certain mediums, so it’s always best to test first.
Make Use of Shading and Highlighting
Adding depth to your work can be achieved by proper shading and highlighting.
Identify your light source and base your shadows and highlights on that.
This adds a sense of realism and depth to your work. Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to shading and highlighting, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new techniques.
Conclusion
By incorporating these coloring hacks into your technique, you’ll be able to create stunning pages that showcase your unique style and creativity.
These coloring hacks are just the tip of the iceberg , there are countless techniques and tricks that you can discover while coloring.
Do you have more tips to share? Let me know in the comments below