How do you make burgundy with colored pencils?

Creating the perfect burgundy color with colored pencils can add depth and richness to your artwork. To achieve this, you’ll need to blend the right combination of colors. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you have the techniques and tools needed to create a stunning burgundy hue.

What Colors Make Burgundy with Colored Pencils?

To create burgundy, blend red, blue, and brown colored pencils. Start with a base of red, add a touch of blue to darken the shade, and finish with brown to add warmth and depth. Adjust the proportions based on your preference for a lighter or darker burgundy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Burgundy

1. Select Your Pencils: Choose high-quality colored pencils in red, blue, and brown. Brands like Prismacolor or Faber-Castell are recommended for their rich pigments.

2. Layering Technique: Begin with a light layer of red. Use gentle pressure to avoid wax buildup.

3. Add Blue: Lightly layer blue over the red. This will darken the red, moving it toward a burgundy shade.

4. Incorporate Brown: Apply a layer of brown to add warmth. Adjust the intensity by adding more or less brown.

5. Blend: Use a colorless blender pencil or a white pencil to smooth the layers, creating a seamless transition between colors.

6. Adjust as Needed: If the color is too dark, lighten it by adding more red. If it’s too light, increase the blue or brown.

Practical Tips for Blending Colored Pencils

• Test Your Colors: Before applying to your artwork, test the color combination on a scrap piece of paper.
• Pressure Control: Vary the pressure of the pencils to control the intensity of the colors.
• Use Circular Motions: When blending, use small circular motions to avoid harsh lines.

Why Is Burgundy a Popular Choice?

Burgundy is a versatile color often used to convey elegance and sophistication. It’s commonly used in fashion, interior design, and art due to its rich and deep tones.

Tools to Enhance Your Color Blending

• Blending Stumps: These help in smoothing out the colors without adding additional pigment.
• White Colored Pencil: Useful for lightening and blending colors for a more cohesive look.
• Eraser: A kneaded eraser can help lift excess pigment without damaging the paper.

People Also Ask

What Are Some Alternative Methods to Create Burgundy?

You can experiment with different shades of red and blue, such as crimson or navy, to achieve varying tones of burgundy. Additionally, using a violet pencil can add a unique depth to the color.

Can You Make Burgundy with Watercolor Pencils?

Yes, watercolor pencils can be used similarly. Apply the colors dry, then activate them with a wet brush to blend and create a smooth burgundy hue.

How Do I Prevent Wax Bloom with Colored Pencils?

Wax bloom occurs when the wax binder in colored pencils rises to the surface. To prevent this, use fixative sprays or work in thin layers, allowing each to dry before adding more.

What Paper Is Best for Colored Pencil Art?

Choose a paper with a medium to heavy weight and a bit of texture, such as Bristol or watercolor paper, to hold multiple layers of color without warping.

How Can I Make My Burgundy Stand Out?

Enhance your burgundy by using complementary colors in your artwork. Colors like gold, cream, or teal can make burgundy pop and add visual interest.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect burgundy color with colored pencils involves blending red, blue, and brown. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a rich and elegant hue that enhances your artwork. Experiment with different shades and techniques to find the perfect burgundy for your project. For more on color blending techniques, explore our articles on color theory and pencil drawing tips.