Choosing the Right Material for Transitioning from Pencil Drawing

When transitioning from pencil drawing to painting, you may wonder which materials are best to use. Let's explore some popular options and tips for beginners.

Watercolor Pencils: A Step towards Painting

If you're looking to transition from pencil drawing to paint while keeping the flexibility of working with pencils, watercolor pencils are an excellent choice. Watercolor pencils allow you to sketch with a fine tool and then soften the lines into a painted effect by adding water. They offer a seamless transition from drawing to watercolor painting and are perfect for adding color and vibrancy to your artwork.

Understanding the Different Art Material Mediums

However, it's important to note that everyone has their own preferences and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people find oil paints, acrylics, pastels, or charcoal more appealing. Each medium has its unique qualities and can give a distinct look to your art.

Charcoal is one of the materials that closely resembles pencil drawing. It is relatively affordable and easy to get started with. A simple set of charcoal pencils from Walmart is often enough for beginners. However, if you are prone to breaking leads, it might be a good idea to watch a YouTube video on how to manage this.

Investing in Quality Art Supplies

Whether you choose charcoal, watercolor pencils, or any other medium, it's crucial to buy quality art supplies. Low-quality materials, such as student-grade supplies, may not provide the necessary quality and might deter you from enjoying the art process. It's essential to make a long-term investment and consider purchasing at least a small palette of high-quality materials. In the long run, it will save you time and frustration.

Practicing on the Right Paper

The choice of paper can significantly impact the quality of your artwork. Whenever possible, look for high-quality, archival, and acid-free paper. For watercolor and other painted techniques, opt for thicker paper, while thinner paper is better for other techniques.

It's also worth exploring practice paper made for kids. Some of these papers can be of exceptional quality for their price and can serve as excellent practice material. Before buying, check the thickness of the paper: thick for watercolor and other painted techniques and thin for other techniques. Experiment with different papers to find what works best for you.

Concluding Thoughts

Transitions in art can be exciting, and the choice of materials is a significant part of that journey. Whether you choose watercolor pencils, charcoal, or any other medium, the most important thing is to have fun and explore what works best for you. Remember, investing in quality materials can make a huge difference in your artistic experience, so don't skimp on the basics. Happy creating!