Ultimate Bird Coloring Course - Learn to Draw AMAZING Birds

Based on the detailed list of colors you've provided, it seems like you're setting up a comprehensive palette for a bird portrait project. The combination of watercolors, Caran d'Ache pastel pencils, Cretacolor Pastel Pencils, STABILO Carbothello Pastel Pencils, and PastelMat Pastel Paper will allow for a rich and vibrant rendition of your subject. Here's a breakdown of how to proceed with the materials listed:

1. Preparation:

   • Choose your dark grey PastelMat Pastel Paper (or an alternative like UART 800 grit).
   • Use a graphite transfer sheet if necessary to trace the provided outline onto your paper.

2. Underpainting (if using watercolors):

   • Start with light washes of watercolor to establish basic tones and colors. Use colors like 190 Venetian Red, 175 Dark Sepia, 168 Earth Green Yellowish, and 167 Permanent Green Olive for the background and base tones of the bird.
   • Allow the watercolors to dry completely before proceeding.

3. Pastel Application:

   • Begin with lighter pastel shades such as Light Yellow Glaze (104) or Flesh (4) to lay down the foundational tones of the bird.
   • Build up layers of pastel, gradually darkening and adding detail with deeper shades like Violet Grey (093), Raw Russet (66), or Dark Flesh Tint (680).
   • Use specific colors like Lemon Yellow (240), Vermilion (060), or Saffron (052) to add highlights or accents where appropriate.
   • For fine details and textures, utilize shades like Olive Brown (039), Payne's Grey 50% (506), or Caput Mortuum Violet Light (642).
   • Don't forget to use a variety of blues and greens to represent the bird's plumage, such as Chinese White (901) mixed with Naples Ochre (821) for warmer tones or Smryna Blue (164) for cooler shades.
   • Blend the pastels smoothly with a blending stump or tissue paper to achieve soft transitions and realistic feather textures.

4. Final Touches:

   • Add the finishing touches with lighter pastels like Violet Pink (582) or Portrait Pink (583) for rosy tones on the bird's face.
   • Use specific colors to highlight specific parts of the bird, such as Bright Eyes (Yellow), Reddish Purple (126) for a touch of color in the eyes, or Carmine Red Deep (325) for a splash of red on the beak or legs.
   • Consider adding reflections or shimmering effects with shades like Chromium Oxide Green (212) to give life to the bird's feathers under different lighting conditions.

5. Video Instruction:

   • Follow the step-by-step video instructions I provided to learn the techniques behind each step. These videos will guide you through the process, from initial sketch to final details.

6. Practice and Refinement:

   • As with any artistic endeavor, practice is key. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt doesn't turn out as expected.
   • Continue refining your technique and experimenting with the colors and textures to improve your bird portrait.

7. Enjoyment:

   • Most importantly, have fun with the process. Artistic exploration is a journey of discovery and growth.

Remember, the key to a successful bird portrait is patience and attention to detail. Take your time, layer your colors carefully, and let your creativity flourish. Good luck with your artwork!