How to Add Color to a Drawing of the Human Form

One basic in artistic training is learning how to draw the human form. One way to give detail to a basic drawing of the human body is to add color. Use the following directions to learn how to add color to a drawing of the human form.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Canvas or paper
• Paints
• Brushes
• Paper towels

1. Put a general outline of the human form down on paper or canvas. Draw the figure lightly with a pencil, which typically does not bleed when painted over. Fill in all the details on the figure with the paint.

2. Select the type of paint desired. Watercolors make a good choice for a lighter look and give a translucent feel to the painting.

3. Decide on where the source of light is. This will determine where the shadows fall on the body. For instance, if the light is coming from the right side, the shadows will be on the left side and the lightest parts, or highlights, will be where the light shining is on the right.

4. Start with the darkest shaded areas of the figure, painting that in first. Gradually add in slightly lighter color for a blended effect. The lightest part of the human form will be where the light source is hitting the subject.

Tips & Warnings

• Watercolors dry quickly, so work fast.