To blend with Crayola colored pencils, the easiest method is to layer lightly applied colors on top of each other. This allows the colors to mix visually and create smooth transitions.
Techniques for Blending Crayola Colored Pencils
Here are a few techniques you can use to blend your Crayola colored pencils effectively:
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Layering:
- Apply light layers of each color you want to blend.
- Build up the intensity gradually.
- This is the foundation of all colored pencil blending.
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Light Pressure:
- Use light pressure when applying the pencils.
- Heavy pressure can make it difficult to blend and can damage the paper.
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Colorless Blender Pencil (Optional):
- Use a colorless blender pencil to soften the edges and blend the colors together. This fills in the tooth of the paper, creating a smoother, more unified look.
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Direction of Strokes:
- Vary the direction of your pencil strokes slightly with each layer to help the colors mix. Circular or cross-hatching motions can be effective.
Tips for Success
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Choose complementary colors: Understanding color theory will significantly improve your blending results. Consider using analogous (neighboring) colors for seamless gradients, or complementary colors to create depth and visual interest.
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Start with a light sketch: Use a light pencil or a very light application of a colored pencil for your initial sketch. This allows for easy corrections and prevents the sketch from interfering with the blended colors.
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Use smooth paper: Paper with a slight tooth (texture) is best for colored pencils, but extremely rough paper can make blending difficult. Experiment with different paper types to find what works best for you.
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Practice, Practice, Practice: Blending colored pencils takes practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempts aren't perfect. Keep experimenting with different techniques and color combinations.
