Create Lifelike Skin Tones in Colored Pencil

The colors you select depend on the skin tone of the person you're drawing, of course. Start by considering whether they are light-, medium- or dark-skinned, but also pay close attention to their skin's undertone. Some people have more pink undertones, while others might haven a golden or olive tint. Taking note of these details will help you narrow down the right shades.

Applying Colors

No matter the skin tone you're seeking to create, the same rules apply: Use your lightest colors as an accent, your darkest as the shadows, and fill in all the rest with your midtones.

1. Make a Base With a Highlight

Choose a highlight color and create a base by coloring the whole surface of the skin except for the brightest section right where the light hits the body.

2. Add Midtones

With your midtone colors, fill in the in-between section, adding some saturation.

3. Add Shadows

Use a dark shadow color to deepen the darkest areas. Then grab one of the midtones you used in Step 2 and layer this color over the section where the midtones meet the shadow tones to blend the two shades together. Color lightly in circular motions to avoid any lines and streaks.

4. Apply Final Highlights

Using another highlight color, brighten the edges of the area where the light touches the body.

5. Build Up and Blend

Continue layering your highlight and mid-tone colors over what you've already laid down. Increase the pressure, and mix everything together by coloring in a circular motion.