Colored Pencil Techniques and Tips

Over the years I’ve received a lot of questions about how to use colored pencils, so I’ve compiled them into this handy Colored Pencil FAQ!

Kindly note that due to my busy schedule, I’m unable to reply to new questions. If you have a colored pencil question that is not answered here, please Search my Site because chances are you’ll find your answer on another page on my site! 😊

Colored Pencil FAQ

How to erase colored pencils 
Reader Question: Do you have any tips for erasing colored pencils? I find them very hard to erase if I make a mistake. I am almost afraid of ruining …

Can you mix professional colored pencils with normal ones? 
Reader Question: Can you mix professional colored pencils with normal ones? I noticed on your site you said Prismacolors are the best, and luckily I …

Is Derwent a good artist pencil? 
Reader Question: I currently own a set of watercolour pencils (from the makers of Derwent) and rarely use it for watercolour but just for colouring in. …

What are the basic colors used in colored pencil art? 
Reader Question: Hi, I want to invest in a set of professional quality colored pencils, like the Prismacolors. I would love the set of 120 but I can't …

Paper for colored pencil drawing 
Reader Question: Which paper is good for colored pencil? I have a sketchbook with papers of yellowish texture of 130 gsm. Is this good? Hi Naresh! …

How to draw chrome objects with colored pencils? 
I would like to learn how to draw chrome objects with colored pencils. What combination of colored pencils will achieve the best result for drawing chrome …

Staedtler colored pencils vs. other brands 
Hi, I love working with colored pencils and I recently came across your blog. I have a set of Staedtler - Luna Pencils (24 shades) and I really like these …

What is the difference between professional colored pencils and normal ones? 
Reader Question: What is the difference between professional colored pencils and normal ones? Professional colored pencils, also called Artist …

Using solvents to blend colored pencils 
I have heard that you can use mineral spirits with colored pencils to break it down and make a kind of wash, which gives the affect of a water color. …

What paper should I use for drawing with colored pencils? 
I love your site and cannot wait to invest in color pencils to reignite my passion for sketching in a whole new way. My only question; what kind of paper …

Colored Pencils Guide

If you’d like to learn more about the different types of colored pencils, and which brands I recommend, check out this Colored Pencils Guide!

Best Paper for Colored Pencils

In this guide to the Best Paper for Colored Pencils I’ll help you find the right paper for your budget, art style, and skill level!