Drawing with markers and colored pencils is a great way to create vibrant and detailed artwork that pops off the page. In this article, I will discuss some of the best subjects to draw with markers and colored pencils, as well as tips and tricks for combining these mediums to create stunning works of art.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Drawing with markers and colored pencils offers endless possibilities for creativity.
- Popular subjects include landscapes, portraits, still-life compositions, and animals.
- Combining markers and colored pencils can create stunning effects, such as bold, vibrant images with a lot of depth and texture.
Things To Draw With Markers And Pencils
When it comes to choosing subjects to draw with markers and colored pencils, the possibilities are endless.
Some popular choices include landscapes, portraits, still-life compositions, and animals. Each of these subjects offers its own unique challenges and opportunities for creativity. For example, landscapes can be a great way to experiment with different color combinations and textures, while portraits require a keen eye for detail and shading.
Here are some ideas for subjects to draw that combine both mediums.
Portraits and People
Drawing portraits and people can be a fun challenge. Use markers to add bold colors to the face and clothing, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture. You can draw a portrait of a famous person or a friend, or even create your own characters.
Nature and Landscapes
Nature and landscapes are great subjects to draw with markers and colored pencils. Use markers to color large areas like the sky or grass, and then use colored pencils to add details like flowers or trees. You can draw a sunset, a beach scene, or a forest.
Urban Landscapes
Urban landscapes are another fun subject to draw. You can draw a city skyline or a street scene with markers, and then use colored pencils to add details like people or cars. You can also experiment with perspective and create a sense of depth in your drawing.
Animals
Animals are always a popular subject for artists. You can draw a realistic lion or horse with markers and colored pencils, or create a cartoonish version of your favorite animal. Use markers to add bold colors to the animal’s fur or feathers, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture.
Cartoon and Video Game Characters
If you’re a fan of cartoons or video games, why not draw your favorite characters? Use markers to add bold colors to the character’s clothing or hair, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture. You can draw Spongebob Squarepants or your favorite video game hero.
Emojis
Emojis are a fun and easy subject to draw with markers and colored pencils. You can draw a series of emojis with different expressions, or create your own emoji characters. Use markers to add bold colors to the emojis, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture.
Food
Food is another great subject to draw. You can draw a still-life of your favorite food with markers and colored pencils, or create a cartoonish version of your favorite dish. Use markers to add bold colors to the food, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture.
Candies and Sweets
Candies and sweets are a fun subject to draw with markers and colored pencils. You can draw a series of candies with different colors and shapes, or create your own candy characters. Use markers to add bold colors to the candies, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture.
Household objects
Household objects are another great subject to draw. You can draw a still-life of a vase or a lamp with markers and colored pencils, or create your own household objects. Use markers to add bold colors to the objects, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture.
Abstract and geometric figures
If you’re feeling creative, you can draw abstract and geometric figures with markers and colored pencils. Use markers to add bold colors to the shapes, and then use colored pencils to add details like shading and texture. You can experiment with different shapes and colors to create unique and interesting designs.
Related Posts:
Combining Markers and Colored Pencils
Combining markers and colored pencils can be a bit tricky, but with a little practice, you can create some truly stunning effects.
Here are some tips for using both mediums together to create vibrant and realistic artwork.
Mixed Media Techniques
One of the benefits of combining markers and colored pencils is the ability to use mixed media techniques.
For example, starting with a base layer of markers and then adding details, texture, or shading with colored pencils can create a dynamic and layered effect.
This is what I did with the drawing of Friendly Hugging Cats above. I colored the main parts of the drawing with ABEIER alcohol-based markers. Then, I used a pink pencil to color the ears and cheeks and I used a black pencil to add whiskers, nose, and mouth and to do the outline.
Alternatively, using colored pencils to create a base layer and then adding markers on top can create bold and vibrant colors.
Achieving Depth and Realism
When using markers and colored pencils together, it’s important to consider the order in which you apply the mediums.
For example, alcohol-based markers should typically be added before colored pencils. This allows the marker drawing to act as an underpainting, leaving the details and more intense colors to the colored pencils.
To achieve depth and realism, consider using layered colors. Start with a light color and then gradually build up darker colors on top. This can create a sense of depth and dimensionality in the artwork.
It’s also important to consider the color palette when combining markers and colored pencils. Indigo blue, for example, can be a great color to use as a base layer for creating shadows and depth.
Related Posts:
Tips and Tricks for Beginners
When it comes to drawing with markers and colored pencils, there are a few tips and tricks that can help beginners get started. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Start with a pencil sketch: Before you start coloring with markers and colored pencils, it’s a good idea to sketch out your design with a pencil. This will help you get a sense of the composition and make any necessary adjustments before you start coloring.
- Experiment with marker colors: When using markers, it’s important to experiment with different colors to find the right shade for your design. Try blending different shades together to create a unique look.
- Use dual brush pens: Dual brush pens are a great tool for beginners because they combine the versatility of a brush with the precision of a pen. These pens are perfect for creating fine lines and adding details to your designs.
- Practice skin tones: One of the trickiest things to master when drawing with markers and colored pencils is creating realistic skin tones. Practice blending different shades together to achieve a natural-looking tone.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes: Remember, it’s just a piece of paper and some colors on it! Drawing is all about experimenting and trying new things. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they can often lead to unexpected and interesting results.
Conclusion
I’ve found that combining markers and colored pencils in my art brings out the best in both mediums. Whether it’s landscapes, portraits, or still lifes, this mix adds vibrant realism and contrast.
Don’t forget to play with techniques like layering and blending, and choosing quality tools like Prismacolor markers and pencils really makes a difference. Honestly, it’s a fun and rewarding way to express creativity and create stunning pieces!
