Learn Colored Pencil Drawing with Veronica Winters

To start working in colored pencils you need to have basic understanding of light and shade, be fairly good in basic drawing of shapes, and have a positive attitude. Thus, it’s important to practice drawing in graphite/charcoal first, and then move to color. Colors need to be “translated” into gradations of tones and this understanding “how light affects the form” is crucial to realist drawing of any subject.

Here I include a few step-by-step demos that show how I approach drawing in color. This process works for me and most of my students who have some background in basic drawing. However, rules are not written in stone and I don’t impose my attitude onto everyone. Sometimes, I see novel approaches to drawing and I also learn from other artists and students.

To get you started, you’ll need these art supplies for basic colored pencil painting:

1. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils (not verithin, other wax or oil based brands are OK),

2. Drawing paper like Strathmore, Stonehenge brands with slight or no texture,

3. Turpenoid or Mineral spirits / Gamsol with a small brush,

4. 2H graphite pencil (hard),

5. Pencil sharpener (general's or other German brand),

6. Kneaded eraser.

In the menu to the left you will find my free videos and step-by-step color pencil painting tutorials. Enjoy!

Instructional Books

Instructional Videos

"Pink Flower" colored pencil painting demonstration, intermediate difficulty. $2 Download Now

Testimonials

"I have really enjoyed both of the classes I have taken from you.  I came to the first class with no (zero) experience at all, but wanting to learn.  And I really, really learned quite a bit over the last few months.  I really appreciate your very delicate and tender way of showing me my mistakes and showing me how to correct them.  You were always very kind to me; thank you. I look forward to taking more classes from you in the future."
--Barbara

"I just wanted to email a "thank you." While I am not one of your serious student and took the class for fun (and had several conflicts and starting a new PSU job, hence my absences), I certainly enjoyed myself and learned a lot! You made us feel capable and increased skill. I will certainly take up my pencil and enjoy continuing.  With sincere appreciation,"
-- Alma Row

"This class for me was very enjoyable and instructive. I got a good start in my two goals: to learn to see in a new way, and to get my hand to obey my brain. I learned many technical and practical things as well, and the use of new tools and materials. Your advice and encouragement enable me to continue drawing. "
-- Leena Scholtena