November is now a week old, and December is upon us. That means it’s time for your questions about colored pencils.
Every December for the past two or three years, I’ve dedicated posts to answering your questions. But in order to answer questions, I need questions. That’s where you come in.
I remember from my days as a new colored pencil artist how many things I had to learn for myself. Colored pencils just weren’t as popular then as they are now, so my learning was by trial-and-error.
Now I’ve been a colored pencil artist for almost thirty years, and it’s time to share with others what I’ve learned. That’s where you come in.
What are Your Questions about Colored Pencils?
I don’t have to think back very far to remember some of my questions about this medium we all enjoy so much. But rather than answer the questions I think you may have, I’d like to answer the questions you do have.
What do you most want to know about colored pencils?
Questions can concern any aspect of colored pencils. What kinds to buy. How to use them. How to store finished art or market it. How to get everything done when you’re to-do list looks overwhelming.
In other words, if there’s a burning question you’ve always wanted answered, but you’ve never had the opportunity to ask it, now’s your chance!
If you have a question relating to a specific project, describe your project (or better yet, send me a picture of it,) and I’ll provide what help I can.
Questions should be as specific as possible. Instead of asking how you can improve your drawings, tell me about your particular problem area. The more specific the question, the more specific the answers. And the more helpful to you!
Contact me with your colored question, then drop in next month for all the answers.
Hi Carrie. I am new to colored pencils. I have a different kind of question. Last week I noticed my wrist was hurting at the base of my thumb, and I’m concerned about getting chronic pain like capital tunnel syndrome. I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong. I thought you or your readers might have some insight to share on this topic.
Rice,
That’s a good point.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs from repeated actions or motions. Drawing and painting can both cause that sort of problem.
I haven’t experienced carpal tunnel problems myself, but I have had times when my knuckles get tender or when I have other hand pain. What I usually do is take a break. Sometimes I walk around the block or do housework, or something else. Usually fifteen or twenty minutes is all it takes.
You might also try using different types of strokes. If, for example, you’re using circular strokes when you notice the pain, try drawing with directional or straight strokes for a while.
And of course if you develop persistent problems, make sure to check with a doctor.