Understanding the texture of animal fur
Before you start drawing animal fur with colored pencils, it’s essential to understand the texture and direction of the fur. A bear’s fur, for example, is thick and shaggy, while a cheetah’s fur is short and sleek. Observe the reference image carefully and take note of the direction of the fur growth. This understanding will help you create a realistic look.
Layering and blending with colored pencils
The key to achieving a realistic fur texture with colored pencils is layering and blending. Start by using light pressure, then gradually build up the layers with increasing pressure. Use a range of colors that match the hue and tone of the animal’s fur. Then blend the colors softly using a blending tool or a clean tissue paper.
Creating highlights and shadows
Highlights and shadows play a vital role in creating depth and dimension in animal fur. To create highlights, use a white colored pencil or leave small areas blank while coloring. Use a dark-colored pencil or multiple layers to create shadows. Remember, the shadows will be darker where the fur is dense and less pronounced where the fur is thin.
Emphasizing the texture
Once you have established the basic texture, you can add some finishing touches to make the fur look more realistic. Use a small eraser to create some texture and lighten some areas to achieve a more lifelike appearance. You can also use a sharp pencil to create flyaway hairs or add some detailing with pastel pencils.
Practice makes perfect
As with any skill, practice is essential to improve your colored pencil fur drawing technique. Start by drawing simple animals with less complex fur textures and work your way up to more challenging subjects. Take your time, observe the reference image carefully, and enjoy the process of creating realistic animal fur texture with colored pencils!
