Hello Fellow Artist!

I don't know about you, but when I start a new project, I could spend half my day choosing colors! Especially if it's a pet portrait commission that depends on the subject's likeness.

Picking a color palette for your next project can be daunting!

Selecting...

Hello Fellow Artist!

The question I get most often from my students is, "how do I blend my colored pencils?" 

The answer depends on the pencils and paper you're using. Wax-based pencils blend differently than oil-based pencils.

Your pencils will blend differently on different papers,...

My Award-Winning Portrait with Derwent Lightfast

Derwent Lightfast Colored Pencil and Paper Review-(Not Sponsored! Just sharing the love!) 

After hearing the rave reviews for almost a year, I finally broke down and tried Derwent Lightfast pencils. I thought the last thing I needed was one...

Hello Fellow Artists!

In one of my Live Zoom Draw-Along's, the subject of lightfastness came up.

Hopefully, my blog will clear up any questions!

First, can I just tell you about my experience with fading artwork! Uggg!

About seven years ago, when I started painting and drawing...

Which paper should you choose for colored pencils? 

Hot-Pressed, Cold-Pressed, Bristol, Sanded, or Pastelmat?

The most important thing about choosing your paper for your colored pencil artwork is to ensure the paper (or substrate) is acid-free, which means it’s protected from natural...

Honorable Mention and a Fall Leaf Study-Take The Challenge!

Hello Fellow Artist! 

Oh my gosh, what a crazy month!

The Blueprint Colored Pencil Course has been keeping me so busy, and our Chicago Chapter of the CPSA had the Annual Art Show and Awards Ceremony ...