The Colored Pencil Course: Watercolor and Colored Pencils - Part 2

Lesson Description

In this lesson, we continue exploring the combination of watercolor and colored pencils. This is the second part of a two-part demonstration where we complete the drawing of strawberries by adding colored pencil details over the watercolor base. By the end of this lesson, you will understand how to enhance texture, depth, and color richness using colored pencils in a mixed-media approach.

Reviewing the Watercolor Base

Before adding colored pencils, it is important to review your watercolor foundation. In this section, Matt demonstrates how to evaluate the base layer for completeness, value, and smooth transitions. You will learn how to identify areas that may need light adjustments or additional washes before applying colored pencils. Ensuring a strong watercolor base sets the stage for creating vibrant and realistic strawberries.

Choosing the Right Colored Pencils

Color selection is critical when layering colored pencils over watercolor. Matt explains how to choose pencils that complement and enhance the underlying paint. He discusses the importance of selecting a range of tones for highlights, midtones, and shadows, as well as subtle color variations that capture the natural look of strawberries. Using the right pencils ensures that your final drawing is rich and cohesive.

Building Texture and Volume

Colored pencils allow for precise control, making them ideal for adding texture and depth. In this section, Matt shows how to create the natural surface of strawberries, including tiny seeds, gentle ridges, and soft highlights. Techniques include layering, burnishing, and blending with light strokes to gradually build volume. By carefully observing the reference, you can replicate the three-dimensional form and make the strawberries appear realistic and tactile.

Adding Highlights and Shadows

Highlights and shadows are essential for realism. Matt demonstrates how to enhance the light and dark areas already established by the watercolor base. Using colored pencils, you will add fine highlights to emphasize glossiness and apply deeper tones to reinforce shadows. This careful manipulation of value and contrast gives the strawberries a sense of depth and makes them appear more lifelike.

Refining Details and Enhancing Color

In this stage, Matt guides you in refining details that bring the strawberries to life. You will learn how to adjust edges, sharpen seeds, and enhance subtle color shifts on the fruit’s surface. Colored pencils allow for precise control, making it possible to capture the small, intricate details that make the drawing visually compelling. Layering multiple colors adds richness and vibrancy, ensuring your strawberries pop off the page.

Techniques for a Polished Finish

Finishing techniques are crucial for a professional-looking drawing. Matt explains how to blend and smooth areas without losing texture, preserve highlights, and maintain a natural look. Tips for correcting minor mistakes, adjusting contrast, and balancing the composition are included. By carefully following these steps, your strawberries will have a polished, cohesive appearance that showcases the combined strengths of watercolor and colored pencils.

Practical Exercises and Observational Tips

At the end of the lesson, practical exercises encourage you to practice layering, texture creation, and value control. Matt emphasizes the importance of observation, encouraging you to study real strawberries or reference images for accurate color, lighting, and form. These exercises help build confidence and skill, allowing you to apply mixed-media techniques to future projects.

Lesson 19 completes the demonstration of combining watercolor and colored pencils. By layering colored pencils over a watercolor base, you can achieve realistic textures, rich colors, and lifelike depth. This lesson reinforces skills in observation, layering, and value control while teaching you how to merge two mediums seamlessly. Completing this module equips you with versatile techniques that can be applied to a wide range of subjects, enhancing both your mixed-media and colored pencil artwork.

Lesson Materials

Canson coldpress illustration board, Prismacolor colored pencils, colorless blender, watercolor paints, nylon brushes, water, liquid masking fluid, kneaded eraser.

Lesson Resources

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Reference Image

Course Curriculum