Colored Pencils Guide For Beginners Choosing The Best Supplies

Are you ready to embark on a vibrant journey into the world of color? Experimenting with color is an exciting endeavor, and colored pencils are a fantastic medium for both beginners and experienced artists alike. If you're just starting out, you might be wondering, "Are there specific pencils I should get for color, or will any pencils work?" The answer is a bit nuanced, but in short, while any colored pencil can technically work, using higher-quality pencils will significantly enhance your experience and the results you achieve. This comprehensive guide will delve into the nuances of colored pencils, helping you choose the right tools and techniques for your artistic explorations.

Understanding Colored Pencils: What Makes Them Unique?

Colored pencils, unlike graphite pencils that rely on varying shades of gray, utilize pigments mixed with a binder to create a spectrum of hues. The quality of a colored pencil hinges on several factors, including the quality of the pigments, the binder, and the core. Pigment quality directly affects the vibrancy, lightfastness, and blendability of the colors. High-quality pigments result in richer, more saturated colors that resist fading over time. The binder, usually wax or oil-based, holds the pigment together and influences the pencil's texture and how it lays down on paper. The core, the colored portion of the pencil, determines the smoothness and break-resistance of the pencil. A well-constructed core will allow for even application and prevent frustrating breakage during use. Understanding these fundamental aspects of colored pencils is crucial when making purchasing decisions and will ultimately impact your artistic outcomes.

Wax-Based vs. Oil-Based Colored Pencils: Choosing the Right Type for Your Style

One of the primary distinctions in colored pencils lies in their base: wax or oil. Wax-based pencils are known for their creamy texture and vibrant colors. They glide smoothly across the paper, making them excellent for layering and blending. However, wax bloom, a whitish film that can appear on the surface of the colored area over time, can be a drawback. While wax bloom can be easily wiped away, it's something to be aware of. Popular wax-based pencils include Prismacolor Premier and Crayola. Oil-based pencils, on the other hand, offer a harder core and produce less wax bloom. They are prized for their precision and ability to hold a sharp point, making them ideal for detailed work. Oil-based pencils also tend to layer well without filling the tooth of the paper as quickly as wax-based pencils. Some popular oil-based options are Faber-Castell Polychromos and Caran d'Ache Luminance. When choosing between wax and oil-based pencils, consider your artistic style and the level of detail you prefer in your work. If you enjoy creating vibrant, blended artworks, wax-based pencils may be your go-to choice. If you lean towards intricate details and layering techniques, oil-based pencils might better suit your needs. Ultimately, many artists find value in having both types in their arsenal, allowing them to leverage the unique strengths of each.

Student-Grade vs. Artist-Grade Colored Pencils: Investing in Quality

Colored pencils are generally categorized into two main grades: student-grade and artist-grade. Student-grade pencils are often more affordable, making them an accessible entry point for beginners and students. However, they typically contain less pigment, resulting in less vibrant colors and a scratchier feel. They may also have a higher wax content, leading to more wax bloom and making layering more challenging. While student-grade pencils can be useful for practice and sketching, they may not provide the same level of satisfaction or allow for the same level of artistic expression as artist-grade pencils. Artist-grade pencils, on the other hand, boast a higher concentration of high-quality pigments, resulting in richer, more intense colors. They offer superior blendability, layering capabilities, and lightfastness, ensuring that your artwork retains its vibrancy over time. Artist-grade pencils are an investment, but the difference in performance and longevity is well worth it for serious artists and those looking to create professional-quality work. Popular artist-grade brands include Prismacolor Premier, Faber-Castell Polychromos, Caran d'Ache Luminance, and Derwent Coloursoft. When deciding between student and artist-grade pencils, consider your budget and artistic goals. If you're committed to developing your colored pencil skills and creating lasting artwork, investing in artist-grade pencils will significantly enhance your artistic journey.

Recommended Colored Pencils for Beginners: A Curated List

For beginners venturing into the realm of colored pencils, selecting the right set can feel overwhelming. To simplify the process, here's a curated list of recommended colored pencils that balance quality, affordability, and versatility:

Prismacolor Premier: The Go-To Choice for Blending and Vibrancy

Prismacolor Premier colored pencils are a beloved choice among artists of all skill levels, particularly for their soft, creamy texture and highly pigmented cores. These wax-based pencils offer exceptional blendability, allowing you to create smooth gradients and vibrant color transitions. Their rich, saturated colors make them ideal for creating bold, eye-catching artwork. Prismacolor Premier pencils are available in a wide range of colors, providing ample options for exploring different palettes and effects. While they are prone to wax bloom, this can be easily managed with a workable fixative or by gently wiping the surface. The softness of the core also means they may require more frequent sharpening and are less suited for very fine details. However, for beginners seeking to master blending and achieve vibrant results, Prismacolor Premier pencils are an excellent starting point.

Faber-Castell Polychromos: Precision and Lightfastness in Oil-Based Pencils

Faber-Castell Polychromos colored pencils are renowned for their oil-based cores, which offer a firmer consistency and exceptional lightfastness. These pencils are a favorite among artists who value precision and permanence in their work. The harder core allows for sharp lines and intricate details, making them ideal for botanical illustrations, portraits, and other detailed subjects. Polychromos pencils layer beautifully without excessive wax buildup, enabling artists to create complex color mixtures and subtle gradations. Their superior lightfastness ensures that your artwork will resist fading over time, preserving its vibrancy for years to come. While they may not blend as smoothly as wax-based pencils, Polychromos offer a unique level of control and durability that makes them a valuable addition to any artist's toolkit. For beginners interested in detailed work and long-lasting results, Faber-Castell Polychromos are a top-tier choice.

Derwent Coloursoft: A Balance of Softness and Intensity

Derwent Coloursoft colored pencils strike a balance between softness and intensity, making them a versatile option for beginners. These wax-based pencils feature a soft core that lays down color smoothly and effortlessly. They blend well, allowing for seamless transitions and subtle shading. Coloursoft pencils are known for their vibrant, saturated colors, which add depth and richness to artwork. They are also relatively break-resistant, making them a durable choice for artists who tend to apply more pressure. While they may not offer the same level of precision as oil-based pencils, Derwent Coloursoft provide a comfortable drawing experience and excellent color payoff. Their affordability and versatility make them a great option for beginners looking to explore a wide range of techniques and styles.

Blick Studio Artists' Colored Pencils: An Affordable Option for Budding Artists

Blick Studio Artists' colored pencils provide an excellent option if budget is a big consideration as a student-grade pencil option for those starting out. They have a wax-based core that delivers smooth color laydown and good blending capabilities. These pencils have a decent range of color options, allowing beginners to explore diverse palettes and color combinations. They are a good choice for practicing techniques and color theory without a major investment. However, keep in mind they are not the highest quality but will do for starting out. It’s important to note that artist-grade pencils will offer superior pigment intensity and lightfastness, Blick Studio provides a cost-effective way to learn the basics of colored pencil art.

Koh-i-Noor Polycolor: A European Standard for Quality and Affordability

Koh-i-Noor Polycolor pencils come as a strong contender in the arena of colored pencils, particularly for artists seeking a balance between quality and affordability. Originating from the Czech Republic, these pencils have established a reputation for their reliable performance and impressive color range. With an oil-based core, Polycolors offer a slightly harder consistency compared to wax-based pencils, enabling precise detailing and layering without excessive wax buildup. The colors are vibrant and lightfast, making them suitable for professional artwork. Many artists appreciate Koh-i-Noor Polycolor pencils for their durability and break-resistance, making them a practical choice for both studio work and plein air sketching. While they might not have the same level of smoothness as some higher-end brands, Polycolor pencils provide excellent value for their price point. Beginners will find them easy to work with, while experienced artists can appreciate their consistent performance. For those exploring colored pencil techniques on a budget, Koh-i-Noor Polycolor presents a compelling option.

Essential Tools and Materials for Colored Pencil Art

Beyond the pencils themselves, certain tools and materials can significantly enhance your colored pencil experience. Investing in quality paper, sharpeners, erasers, and blending tools will not only make the process more enjoyable but also improve the final outcome of your artwork.

Paper: Choosing the Right Surface for Colored Pencils

The paper you choose plays a crucial role in how your colored pencils perform. The texture, weight, and tooth (surface roughness) of the paper affect how the pencil lays down color, blends, and layers. For colored pencils, a smooth to slightly textured paper with a good tooth is generally recommended. The tooth provides enough grip for the pigment to adhere to the surface, while a smooth finish allows for even application and blending. Bristol board, watercolor paper (hot press), and specialized colored pencil paper are excellent choices. Avoid using paper that is too smooth, as the pencil may not grip the surface properly. Similarly, paper that is too textured can make it difficult to achieve smooth gradations. Experiment with different types of paper to find what works best for your style and techniques. Heavier weight paper is preferable as it is more durable and can withstand multiple layers of color without buckling or tearing. When beginning a new piece, always test your pencils on a scrap of the paper you intend to use to see how the colors behave and adjust your technique accordingly.

Sharpeners: Keeping Your Pencils Sharp for Detail Work

A sharp pencil is essential for achieving fine details and crisp lines in colored pencil artwork. A high-quality sharpener is a worthy investment, as it will ensure a clean, even point without breaking the lead. Both manual and electric sharpeners are available, each with its own advantages. Manual sharpeners offer greater control and are often preferred for their portability and ability to create a very fine point. Electric sharpeners, on the other hand, can sharpen pencils quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for artists who use colored pencils extensively. It is advisable to use a sharpener specifically designed for colored pencils, as regular sharpeners may damage the soft cores of some pencils. A dull pencil can result in uneven color application and a scratchy texture, making it difficult to achieve the desired effect. Regularly sharpening your pencils will not only improve the precision of your work but also prolong the lifespan of your pencils.

Erasers: Correcting Mistakes and Creating Highlights

Erasers are invaluable tools for colored pencil artists, allowing for the correction of mistakes and the creation of highlights. Different types of erasers serve different purposes. A kneaded eraser is a soft, pliable eraser that can be molded into various shapes to lift color from specific areas. It is particularly useful for creating subtle highlights and softening edges. A plastic or vinyl eraser is more effective for completely removing color and making clean corrections. A battery-operated or electric eraser provides precision erasing and is ideal for detailed work. When using an eraser, it is important to apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the paper. Over-erasing can roughen the surface and make it difficult to reapply color smoothly. Experiment with different erasing techniques to discover how to achieve various effects, from subtle highlights to crisp, clean corrections. The strategic use of erasers can add depth and dimension to your colored pencil artwork.

Blending Tools: Achieving Smooth Transitions and Gradients

Blending is a fundamental technique in colored pencil art, allowing you to create smooth transitions and gradients. While colored pencils can be blended using various methods, specific blending tools can significantly enhance the process. Blending stumps, also known as tortillions, are tightly wound paper cylinders used to soften edges and blend colors. They are particularly useful for blending large areas and creating seamless gradations. Paper stumps are similar to blending stumps but have a pointed tip, making them ideal for blending in tight spaces. Colorless blenders, which are pencils with a wax or oil-based core but no pigment, can be used to burnish the surface and blend colors together. Solvents, such as odorless mineral spirits, can also be used for blending colored pencils. Applying a small amount of solvent with a brush or cotton swab can dissolve the pigment and create a smooth, painterly effect. Experiment with different blending tools and techniques to find what works best for your style and the effects you wish to achieve. Blending is key to creating depth, dimension, and realism in colored pencil artwork.

Techniques for Working with Colored Pencils: Mastering the Fundamentals

To truly excel in colored pencil art, it's crucial to understand and master fundamental techniques. These techniques will allow you to achieve a wide range of effects and express your artistic vision effectively.

Layering: Building Up Color Gradually

Layering is one of the most fundamental techniques in colored pencil art. It involves applying thin, translucent layers of color on top of each other to build up depth, intensity, and complexity. Layering allows you to create subtle color mixtures, smooth gradations, and rich, vibrant hues. Start with light pressure and gradually increase the pressure as you add more layers. This approach allows you to control the color buildup and avoid over-saturating the paper. Experiment with different color combinations to see how they interact and create new shades. Layering is particularly effective for creating realistic skin tones, complex textures, and luminous effects. By building up color gradually, you can achieve a level of depth and realism that is difficult to attain with other mediums. Patience is key to mastering the layering technique; take your time and allow each layer to set before applying the next. Layering is the backbone of many colored pencil techniques and a must-know for any aspiring artist.

Burnishing: Creating a Smooth, Polished Finish

Burnishing is a technique used to create a smooth, polished finish in colored pencil artwork. It involves applying heavy pressure with a colored pencil or a colorless blender to blend and compress the layers of color. Burnishing fills the tooth of the paper, resulting in a smooth, reflective surface. This technique is particularly effective for creating realistic textures, such as metal, glass, and water. When burnishing, use a light color or a colorless blender to avoid darkening the colors too much. Apply even pressure and work in small, circular motions to achieve a uniform finish. Burnishing can be used to blend colors seamlessly, create a glossy sheen, and eliminate any remaining texture from the paper. However, it is important to note that burnishing makes it difficult to add additional layers of color, so it should be used as a final step. Mastering the burnishing technique can add a professional touch to your colored pencil artwork and elevate the overall quality of your pieces.

Blending: Achieving Smooth Transitions and Gradients

Blending is an essential technique for creating smooth transitions and gradients in colored pencil art. It involves softening the edges between colors and creating a seamless flow from one hue to another. Blending can be achieved using various methods, including layering, burnishing, and blending tools. Layering thin layers of color on top of each other is an effective way to blend colors gradually. Burnishing with a light color or a colorless blender can also help to blend colors and smooth out the surface. Blending stumps and paper stumps are valuable tools for blending larger areas and creating soft gradations. Solvents, such as odorless mineral spirits, can be used to create a painterly effect and blend colors seamlessly. When blending, it is important to work slowly and deliberately, paying attention to the color transitions and the overall effect. Experiment with different blending techniques to find what works best for your style and the desired outcome. Mastering blending will allow you to create realistic and visually appealing colored pencil artwork.

Hatching and Cross-Hatching: Creating Texture and Value

Hatching and cross-hatching are techniques used to create texture and value in colored pencil drawings. Hatching involves drawing a series of parallel lines to create a sense of tone and form. The closer the lines, the darker the value; the farther apart, the lighter the value. Cross-hatching is a variation of hatching that involves drawing intersecting lines to create even darker values and richer textures. Hatching and cross-hatching are particularly useful for creating a sense of depth and dimension in your artwork. They can also be used to simulate the texture of various materials, such as wood, fabric, and fur. When using hatching and cross-hatching, vary the spacing, length, and direction of the lines to create a more natural and dynamic effect. Experiment with different line weights and colors to add further variation and complexity. Mastering hatching and cross-hatching will expand your artistic toolkit and allow you to create more expressive and visually engaging colored pencil drawings.

Lifting Color: Correcting Mistakes and Adding Highlights

Lifting color is a technique used to correct mistakes, create highlights, and add subtle variations to colored pencil artwork. It involves removing color from the paper using an eraser or other lifting tools. A kneaded eraser is particularly useful for lifting color gently and creating soft highlights. A plastic or vinyl eraser can be used to remove color more completely, but it is important to use it sparingly to avoid damaging the paper. Battery-operated erasers provide precision erasing and are ideal for detailed work. In addition to erasers, other lifting tools, such as masking fluid and lifting putty, can be used to create interesting effects. Masking fluid can be applied to areas that you want to protect from color, while lifting putty can be used to lift color selectively. When lifting color, it is important to work carefully and avoid over-erasing, which can roughen the paper and make it difficult to reapply color smoothly. Mastering the art of lifting color will allow you to correct mistakes, add highlights, and create unique effects in your colored pencil artwork.

Practice and Experimentation: The Key to Mastering Colored Pencils

Ultimately, the key to mastering colored pencils lies in practice and experimentation. There's no substitute for hands-on experience, so dedicate time to exploring different techniques, colors, and surfaces. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; they are valuable learning opportunities. Experiment with different pencil brands and grades to find what suits your style and preferences. Try various paper types to see how they affect color laydown and blending. Play with layering, burnishing, blending, and other techniques to discover the effects you can achieve. As you practice, you'll develop a better understanding of how colored pencils work and how to control them to create the artwork you envision. Seek out tutorials, workshops, and online resources to learn new techniques and tips from experienced artists. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of creating with colored pencils. With dedication and practice, you'll unlock the full potential of this versatile and rewarding medium.

Happy coloring!