- Draw with a light colored pencil onto the paper to start. A tip for a good pencil stoke is to keep the stroke even and moving in one direction in one layer unless using the technique of cross-hatching to add layers and texture to the shading of the work of art. Keep the colored pencil sharp. Work across the grain of the paper and not parallel to it.
- Apply an even pressure when coloring in an area to keep the same tone. The heavier the pressure applied means the darker the tone, whereas the less pressure applied creates a lighter tone. Always start by using a light pressure to apply the first layer of color. Overlay the color with the same color with a heavier pressure to increase color saturation.
- Work from dark to light to create tone. It is easier to set up your light shades by filling in your darkest tones first and graduating color down to light tones. Use the white of the paper to depict light falling on an object. Blend in the colors by coloring one color over another. This creates tonal variations and makes the color richer in quality. Apply color in reverse directions. For instance, apply the first layer in one direction, then apply your second layer of color in the opposite direction to build up color. Dust off any wax debris with a brush as you work or place a sheet of paper under your hand to avoid smudging and wax specs.
- Use good quality art coloring pencils available in a local arts and crafts store. Choose a wide selection of colors to be able to work with as many tones and hues as possible to produce color rich artwork. Avoid cheap child packs, as the colored lead produces poor quality results and the lead is quick to break. Consider the different types of colored pencils available, from the standard colored pencil to oil or watercolor based pencils, to create a variety of different effects.