Nobody Said Coloring is Easy

Nobody said coloring is easy. Here are 10 tips to make your adult coloring book more enjoyable.

1. Get started: Sometimes it’s difficult to start something, such as running, new jobs, speeches, and even coloring. Set 10 minutes aside each day to color and unwind. Just go for it!  I’ve never heard anyone say they regretted coloring.
2. Don’t’ Fear the Judgement of Peers: Adults are often reluctant to take part in creativity because they fear the opinions of others. This is your book; you can choose to share your art with others or not.
3. Try New Things: Do not be afraid to try new things. Try different markers, crayons, colored pencils, and paints. If something does not go as planned, turn it in to a “happy mistake” or simply turn to the next page and try again.
4. Repeat Successes: When things do work out repeat them. I love using permanent makers because that’s what works for me. You can also look at other’s work and combine ideas that you like. Don’t worry about being 100% original.
5. Think Outside the Box: Color with crayons and then water color on top to give your art texture. Layer different colored pencils to create a new color. Have you ever seen a blue, green, purple, and pink flamingo? Use your imagination and color things how you want to color them. The great thing about art is that anything is possible.
6. Resort to Nature: Sometimes when I am stumped on what colors to use, I turn to nature. I will color the roses red and the peacock blue and green. Beauty is all around us in nature and you can use it for inspiration in your art.
7. Resort to color schemes: Warm colors, cool colors, neutral colors, complementary colors, analogous colors…. These are all great color schemes that can be incorporated into your art. I love turning to warm and cool color schemes. No need to reinvent the color wheel.
8. Mix Medias: Do not be afraid to mix art mediums. I enjoy using fine tip permanent markers for the small areas and water colors paints to fill in the large areas. It works for me and I’m sticking to it.
9. Have fun: It’s important for both adults and children to take part in creativity and play. Use your adult coloring book to have fun and unwind.
10. Share your success: Share your successes with others. Frame your drawing, use it as a card, give it to a friend, or post it on social media. This will not only make others happy, but it will make you happy.  I’d love to see your colorings and art. You can tag me on Instagram @PaisleyandHazel.

Best Wishes,
Anna N. Carey