Drawing Animals In Colored Pencil

Drawing Animals in Colored Pencil

Drawing animals in colored pencil is a great way to add texture and depth to a picture. Not only can you create realistic looking animals, but you can also use the colored pencils to create unique and creative effects on the paper. Colored pencils can be used to draw almost any type of animal, from cats and dogs to horses and birds. Whether you are an experienced artist or just starting out, learning how to draw animals in colored pencil can be a rewarding experience.

Before you begin, it is important to understand the basics of how to use colored pencils. It is important to choose the right type of paper, as this can make a big difference in how your drawings look. Colored pencils work best on smooth paper, such as Bristol board or drawing paper. When selecting your pencils, it is important to choose quality pencils that are well-sharpened and made from lightfast pigments. This will ensure that your drawings will look great for years to come.

Creating a Drawing: Basic Techniques

When starting a drawing, it is important to take your time and plan out your composition. Start by sketching the basic shape of the animal, using light pencil lines. Once you are happy with the composition, you can begin to add details with the colored pencils. To create a realistic look, you will need to layer the colors and use different techniques such as blending, shading and cross-hatching.

When blending colors, use a light touch and add the color in small circles to give the drawing a more natural look. To shade, use the side of the pencil lead and press lightly on the paper. You can also use the point of the pencil to draw thin, precise lines. To create a cross-hatched effect, use the lead of the pencil to draw horizontal and vertical lines in different directions. This will give the drawing a more textured look.

Adding Details and Finishing Touches

Once you have added the basic colors and shading to the drawing, you can start to add details such as fur and feathers. For fur, use short, quick strokes of the pencil in different directions. For feathers, use light pencil lines to draw the shape of the feathers and then use different colors to give the feathers a more realistic look. When adding details, it is important to take your time and be patient. The more time you spend adding details, the more realistic your drawing will look.

When you are finished with the drawing, use a soft cloth to gently blend any harsh lines or colors. This will give the drawing a softer, more finished look. You can also use a colorless blender pencil to soften the colors and blend them together.

Tips and Tricks

When drawing animals in colored pencil, it can be helpful to look at photographs or images of the animal for reference. This will help you get a better understanding of the animal’s features and colors. It is also important to take your time and be patient. Colored pencil drawings take time and practice to perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first drawing doesn’t look perfect. With patience and practice, you will be able to create beautiful and realistic animal drawings.

Drawing animals in colored pencil is a great way to express your creativity and create beautiful artwork. With the right supplies and a bit of practice, you can create stunning animal drawings that will last for years to come. So grab your colored pencils and get started on your next masterpiece!