Colored Pencils Plus: Ink and Colored Pencils

Course Curriculum

Lesson Description

This module is a mixed-media lesson that teaches artists how to combine the tonal foundation of ink wash with the refined detail of colored pencils to create a still life of blueberries. In this module, students learn how to use ink wash to establish strong values and depth before applying colored pencils to enrich color, texture, and surface detail. This approach results in a balanced, expressive piece that captures both the weight and delicate surface quality of the fruit.

Introduction to Mixed-Media Techniques

The lesson begins by explaining how ink wash and colored pencils complement one another. Ink wash provides a range of values—from deep shadows to soft midtones—forming a rich foundation for realistic drawing. Colored pencils are then layered on top to introduce color nuances and surface texture. Understanding the strengths of each medium allows students to work more confidently and efficiently, making the most of both tonal depth and fine detail.

Creating the Ink Wash Underpainting

Students start by lightly sketching the basic shapes and placement of the blueberries. Once the composition is established, ink wash is applied to establish values and suggest form. Careful observation of light and shadow guides this stage, as dark washes define shadowed areas and lighter washes create highlights. The ink wash builds the illusion of volume and depth before any color is introduced, ensuring that the drawing has strong structural integrity.

Preparing to Apply Colored Pencils

After the ink wash has fully dried, the lesson transitions to colored pencil application. Students learn how to work on top of the ink foundation without overworking the paper’s surface. The class discusses how to choose pencil colors that enhance the tonal underpainting rather than overpower it, and how to manage pressure and layering to maintain smooth transitions and surface quality.

Adding Color, Texture, and Detail

With the tonal groundwork in place, colored pencils are used to build rich, vibrant color and detailed texture. The lesson shows how to suggest blueberry skins’ subtle variations, highlights, and reflected light through careful layering and mark-making. Colored pencils allow for precise control, so students can deepen color intensity, enhance contrast, and refine edges to achieve realism.

Refining the Finished Artwork

As the piece nears completion, focus shifts to refining values, enhancing contrast, and unifying the composition. Students learn how to adjust and balance the colored pencil layers with the ink wash beneath, ensuring harmony between tone and hue. By the end of this module, artists will have a finished still life of blueberries and a strong understanding of how to combine ink wash with colored pencils for detailed, expressive artwork.

Specific Lessons

Lesson 1 - Materials and Drawing

In this lesson, we explore the materials and surface and draw the contours of the blueberries.

Lesson 2 - Ink Wash - Part 1

In this lesson, we begin applications of ink. We begin creating an ink wash which serves as an underpainting for the finished artwork.

Lesson 3 - Ink Wash - Part 2

In this lesson, we complete the ink wash, addressing the final blueberry and the leaves.

Lesson 4 - Colored Pencils - Part 1

In this lesson, we begin with colored pencil applications, layering light applications before burnishing with colorless blender.

Lesson 5 - Colored Pencils - Part 2

In this lesson, we complete the drawing by addressing the leaves and cast shadows with colored pencils.

Lesson Materials

• Arches 140 lb. Hot Pressed Watercolor Paper
• HB Graphite Pencil
• Prismacolor Premiere Colored Pencils
• Carbon Black Bottled Ink
• Grumbacher Goldenedge Nylon Brush (Size 6 - Round)

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Lesson Resources

References

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