You can blend colored pencils using a white pencil by layering it on top of existing colors to soften and smooth them together.
How to Use a White Pencil for Blending
The primary way to use a white pencil to blend colored pencils is as a softening agent between layers of color. Here’s a breakdown:
- Layer your colors: Apply the colored pencils you want to blend.
- Apply the white pencil: Gently layer the white pencil over the colored areas. The white pigment will help to meld the colors together.
- Burnishing (Optional): Applying heavier pressure with the white pencil can further blend and smooth the colors, creating a burnished effect. This works best with wax-based colored pencils.
Considerations When Using a White Pencil for Blending
- Lightening Effect: Keep in mind that using a white pencil will lighten the colors underneath. If you're aiming for deep, dark tones, avoid using too much white pencil.
- Paper Type: The type of paper can affect blending. Smoother paper generally allows for easier blending than paper with a lot of texture.
- Pencil Type: Wax-based colored pencils tend to blend more easily than oil-based colored pencils.
- Experimentation: Experiment with different pressures and layering techniques to achieve the desired blending effect.
By layering the white pencil over your existing colors, you can achieve smoother transitions and a more blended appearance in your colored pencil artwork.
