Colored Pencil Tip to Remember

by Robin

Here’s a quick and helpful colored pencil tip for those of you who enjoy working with them!

It’s rare that an artist has all the colored pencils in the spectrum. So, if you find that you’re missing a color that you need, all you need to do is layer two colors that could make that missing color. Layer them lightly. Apply them in thin layers one color over top of the other about 3-4 times to slowly reveal the 3rd color!

I’ve shared an example here. I’m using Polychromos colored pencils here, but this tip will work for most pencil brands. My best recommendation is to try this at home with the colored pencils that you have to see what results you get.

Another thing to remember is that when you combine two colors near each other on the color wheel (know as analogous colors), the new color you make will tend to have a vibrant feel and will fall somewhere in the middle of the colors you’ve combined. However, when you use two colors that are across from each other on the wheel (known as complementary colors), they will tend to neutralize each other’s tones and mix a more muddy or earthy color

Materials Used:

This blog may use affiliate links when they’re available. If you choose to make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. I don’t make recommendations lightly, and will only link to products I know and trust.

  • Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencil Set – 60 Pieces [Amazon]
  • Strathmore Colored Pencil Paper Pad 400 Series [Amazon] [Blick]

Got any more colored pencil tips? Drop them in the comments! Looking for more colored pencil techniques? Click here to find more!

You may also like

Leave a Comment