Once the surface has reached this 'waxy' consistency, burnishing can occur. Colors can be gradually adjusted for this reason as well. This allows the artist to create smooth gradations between colors and values. This waxy build up allows the colors to blend and layer easily. With each progressively heavier application, the binder becomes thicker on the surface, creating a 'buttery' consistency.

Although you can use them anyway that you like, I have found that heavily applying the color produces a more desired result. In contrast, layering multiple applications of color adds depth to the color, making it appear more natural and realistic.Ĭolored pencils are designed to be built up to a heavy application. The secret to producing a 'painted look' with colored pencils comes from the application approach and what I like to call 'the magic of burnishing'.Ĭolored pencils require multiple applications of color. Using just one color usually results in an artificial look. Creating a Painted Look With Colored Pencils Clearly, they are much more than a medium reserved for sketching.

Colored pencils can be used to produce incredibly vivid imagery with strong colors. I thought that they were great for sketching, but not really capable of producing rich and vivid colors.īut overtime, I have learned just the opposite. I definitely did not realize this when I first used them. If you want to check out the basics of drawing an eye with graphite pencils, please have a look at the following lesson.Ĭolored pencils are a powerful medium for creating art. In this lesson, we'll look at drawing a realistic eye with colored pencils.

Eye sketch ideas with color