A Colored Pencil Blending Technique That’s Game Changing!

Today, I am sharing a game changing colored pencil blending technique! The technique involves using odorless mineral spirits, such as Gamsol, to blend colors when using colored pencils. This technique works best with wax-based color pencils as the mineral spirts break down the wax allowing you to blend colors easily and create a “creamy” look to stamped images. Now, having said that, I am a Stampin’ Up Demonstrator and we do not have wax-based colored pencils. Therefore, during the video demonstration, I used Stampin’ Up Watercolor Pencils. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the results.

Tips For Colored Pencil Blending With Odorless Mineral Spirits

• Use “Artist Grade” Odorless Mineral Spirits (I used Gamsol, Artist Grade)
• Use a smooth card stock. (I use Basic White and Basic White Thick)
• Works best with wax-based colored pencils. However, for demonstration purposes, I used Stampin’ Up! Watercolor Pencils in the three cards, above. Wax-based color pencils can be purchased just about anywhere, including Amazon.
• Use a blending stump. Resembles a pencil but is made from paper. This allows for good absorption of the mineral spirits.
• Use small circular motions to blend colors.
• Color you image using a good amount of pigment. I start around the edges and blend in toward the center of the image.
• After the mineral spirits dry, you can add another layer of color for shading or highlighting.
• Keep mineral spirits tightly covered as it does evaporate. I pour the mineral spirits into a small mason jar and add to it, as needed.

Video Tutorial

In the video tutorial, below, I demonstrate the technique of using colored pencils with an odorless mineral spirit, such as Gamsol, to blend colors and achieve a beautiful look to your stamped images. Further down in the post, you will find additional photos, a downloadable PDF with measurements, for the card made during the video and supplies. I hope you enjoyed game changing colored pencil technique. Leave me a comment and let me know if you have used this technique in the past and what you think of it!

Individual Photos Using This Colored Pencil Blending Technique

supplies

Additional Supplies That Are Not Stampin’ Up!

• Gamsol (Artist Grade)
• Blending Stumps

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