When it comes to drawing, one of the most challenging aspects can be capturing the realistic texture of hair. However, with the right techniques and a set of colored pencils, you can create stunning hair illustrations. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of drawing hair using colored pencils.
Materials You Will Need:
- Colored pencils (a variety of shades)
- Pencil sharpener
- Drawing paper
- Eraser
- Reference photo of hair
Step 1: Start with a Rough Sketch
Begin by lightly sketching the shape of the head and the basic hairline using a pencil. This will serve as your foundation for the hair drawing.
Step 2: Layer the Base Colors
Select a mid-tone color from your colored pencil set and start filling in the larger areas of the hair. Use light, even strokes, following the direction of the hair strands. Remember to keep your colored pencil strokes smooth and consistent.
Step 3: Build Depth with Layering
To create depth and dimension, layer different shades of colored pencils on top of each other. Start with the lighter shades and gradually work your way towards the darker ones. Remember to blend the colors together using gentle strokes or a blending pencil to create a seamless transition.
Step 4: Add Highlights and Shadows
To make the hair look more realistic, incorporate highlights and shadows. Use a white colored pencil or an eraser to add highlights where the light hits the hair. For shadows, use darker shades of colored pencils to create depth and volume.
Step 5: Refine the Details
Pay attention to the smaller details of the hair, such as individual strands or flyaways. Use a sharpened colored pencil to add these details, making sure to maintain the direction of the hair flow.
Step 6: Finalize the Drawing
Take a step back and assess your drawing. Make any necessary adjustments or additions to ensure the overall look is cohesive. Once you are satisfied with the result, you can erase any remaining pencil lines and refine any areas that need more attention.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you should be able to draw beautiful hair using colored pencils. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting with different techniques and reference photos to further enhance your skills. Happy drawing!