The New Colored Pencil: Create Luminous Works with Innovative Materials and Techniques

by Kristy Ann Kutch

Learn to draw and paint using colored pencils in The New Colored Pencil: a how-to guide for creating vibrant, textured, and easy art illustrations by best-selling author and teacher Kristy Kutch

Master the Latest Breakthroughs in Colored Pencil Art

If you want to create colorful, radiant works of art, colored pencil and related color media (pastels, watercolor pencils, and so on) provide you with limitless options for adding vibrancy to your creations. In The New Colored Pencil, artist and instructor Kristy Ann Kutch guides you through the latest developments in color drawing media with examples of and recommendations for the newest pencil brands, drawing surfaces, and groundbreaking techniques (including using the Grid Method, grating pigments, blending with heat, and more). Supported by step-by-step demonstrations and showcasing inspiring art from some of today’s best colored pencil artists, The New Colored Pencil shows you how to use color theory to your advantage, combine color media, create and enhance textures, and experiment with surfaces to create interesting effects. Whether you use traditional, wax-based, or watercolor colored pencils, The New Colored Pencil will take your art to the next level.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Drawing, How To

176 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Rachel Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detailed instructions on mixed media mentioned in the title of the book.

I really enjoyed the chapters on watercolor pencils and oil pastels. This book is not so much for abject beginners, but more for artists needing better technique on successfully combining these media. Nice photos! This was a Kindle purchase to my iPhone Kindle App.

[False · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had hoped that this book would give very rudimentary explanations about new techniques in working with the varied types of colored pencils (matte, wax, water color, etc.) It describes techniques to try and achieve, but the art work shown is predominately done at a professional level and is the finished work, not a step by step. In the back of the book is a very detailed guide to the big brand name colored pencils and all of their color range. So I did get "that" out of the book. Otherwise. Eh.

[Random Name · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book for beginners that want to find out what they need and need to know to start this medium, but also a helpful reference and inspiration for more experienced artists. There are many beautiful drawings inside, and that in itself is worth getting the book out of your public library for. Unfortunately, I think it's out of print, so your local public library might not have it.

[Cecille Gagne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Been having an artist block but want to do some of the techniques in the book now

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

So im finally going back to school to get my high school diploma. Third time at this but you know what they say third times a charm. So on my first day i was asked my name and what were my future plans for when I’m done getting my diploma. I have to professions i would die for. 1.) to become an author. 2.) Become an artist. But i stopped and thought about it and realized as an author i can do my own cover art and/or depending on what type of book whether it be childrens books or other my own inner artwork for it.
This week i chose The New Colored Pencil on blogging for books so i can get some practice in and start teaching myself some of these techniques. I love it! I use to draw in high school (the first time i went) and i always saw it as stress relief, so i did it often. As i looked through and read this book I saw so many new ways to use pencils and colored pencils and even different types of paper.
To anyone who enjoys art or is just interested in how some artwork is done i woulod recommend this book. Its quick, simple and straight to the point! Below just like all the other reviews i will post whatever synopsis and buying link so you can check it out. Have a great day!

~synopsis~Learn to draw and paint using colored pencils in The New Colored Pencil: a how-to guide for creating vibrant, textured, and easy art illustrations by best-selling author and teacher Kristy Kutch

Master the Latest Breakthroughs in Colored Pencil Art

If you want to create colorful, radiant works of art, colored pencil and related color media (wax pastels, watercolor pencils, and so on) provide you with limitless options for adding vibrancy to your creations. In The New Colored Pencil, artist and instructor Kristy Ann Kutch guides you through the latest developments in color drawing media with examples of and recommendations for the newest pencil brands, drawing surfaces, and groundbreaking techniques (including using the Grid Method, grating pigments, blending with heat, and more). Supported by step-by-step demonstrations and showcasing inspiring art from some of today’s best colored pencil artists, The New Colored Pencil shows you how to use color theory to your advantage, combine color media, create and enhance textures, and experiment with surfaces to create interesting effects. Whether you use traditional wax-based, or watercolor colored pencils, The New Colored Pencil will take your art to the next level.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm currently experimenting with different ways to satisfy my artistic muse. I'm a pysanky artist, and only recently have begun to explore other mediums. My arsenal has several types of colored pencils, which I use only sparingly. Somehow I knew there were other ways to employ the simple colored pencil, but hadn't unlocked the secret. When Blogging for Books offered this book as a selection, I immediately jumped for it, and hauled out my collection of colored pencils in eager anticipation.

The book itself is beautiful, and quite thorough. It explores different types of pencils. and provides many references for identifying quality of materials in colored pencil art, from the pencils itself, to paper, to accessory tools, thoroughly examining the strengths and weaknesses of each. To be honest, I was a bit overwhelmed by it all, as a novice, but think this book will have a happy home on my art reference shelf, and that as I get more comfortable with my own artistic abilities, I'll refer to it more and more. It may be a while though, because, as the book stresses, quality counts. Sadly, only one set of my pencils even made the list, and was moderate at that. If I want to indulge in the techniques explored in this book, I would want to upgrade and to supplement with good quality paper and accessary tools, etc, and my wallet is not yet ready. Even so, there are many techniques and tips that I can apply to pen/marker art and even acrylic painting. Having never taken any sort of art class, this is like having my own private instructor in a book.

Thank you Blogging for Books, the publisher and author for sending a copy of the book my way. I hope someday to be able to fully employ all that it offers.

Tags: blogging-for-books, i-liked-it, not-my-usual-read, read, read-for-review, taught-me-something

[eyes.2c · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well presented and easily read____________3 1/2 stars

I like the layout of this book. I especially like the richness of drawing examples scattered throughout. Those certainly added to its kerb appeal. The production is smart and information is easily accessed.
Kristy Kutch is not only a proven shown artist she runs frequent workshops. Check out her website. As an artist and teacher she has produced a book that is an excellent resource for those unable to attend workshops to connect with the medium. I don't learn well by reading about things. I learn best by working alongside someone, the practical hands on approach over the theory. No book replaces that experience. However, if I wanted to refer back to a certain technique post a workshop, or extend my knowledge about a technique, this book is a useful tool.
As an aside, my preference for art books is always as the hard copy, rather than an eBook. I have The New Colored Pencil on my kindle to review, and yes it's readily accessible in this format but I do prefer the physical book. That however is very much a personal idiosyncrasy.
Comparing this with other books on the same topic? Whilst similar to others out there, the ideas are presented in the author's particular style with her leanings. A new slant on things is often rewarding.
After reading the flurry of comments surrounding this publication it is interesting to note that another author of such books mentioned in the comments as being worthwhile is listed in Kutch's 'Acknowledgement' section as a supporter and helper with this production. Two more of the authors mentioned as good examples in the field are listed in the Bibliography.
A rewarding production to browse through from time to time, or give as a present.

A NetGalley ARC

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been wanting to incorporate different things into my watercolors. I have considered colored pencil and now that they have water-soluble pencils I need to consider it further. There was even a section dedicated to the water-soluble pencils and even pastels. That was a nice surprise and fortunately (or unfortunately for my wallet) I now want to try those as well.

I didn't just get ideas in that section. I also had ideas of combining the more traditional pencils to watercolor. I didn't even consider the wax content in the pencil and how it could create a resist and it got me to thinking about being able to preserve some color through the resist or even just create interesting patterns with the resist itself.

My favorite part of the book is where she breaks down a lot of the more popular artist grade pencils and pastels. It helps you save a lot of time and money just by reading those parts. You can then decide what you want your work to do and pick the appropriate utensil. It made me want several brands just by reading their capabilities.

The part that I thought needed a bit more work would have been the areas on watercolor. She isn't a watercolorist and you could tell in this section. Although it was lightly visited a better section on watercolor brushes might have been a good choice. I enjoyed her selection of papers listed but I would have also liked perhaps a list of watercolor books that would be good for a beginner for those that haven't tried the medium yet.

I give this book 4 stars. It is easy to follow and helps you pick out your product easily. I think for a beginner it would give them a good overview of the medium and it also helps seasoned artists to think about how they might want to incorporate pencils and some pastels into their work.

[Doreen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow! This author really knows her stuff. This is the most detailed, thorough book of this kind that I have ever seen. It was a lot more technical than I was expecting. I like to use colored pencils in my spiritual art journal and thought I’d get some good tips to help me there. While there were things that will be helpful for me in this book, it would really help my daughter who is a more serious artist.

The biggest thing that I will take away from this book is that “quality art begins with quality art materials.” If you want to make really nice colored pencil pieces, it’s probably not going to happen with the box of 12 pencils that you can pick up at the convenience store for $2.99.

The strength of this book is that it goes through so many tools….pencils, brushes, papers, erasers, etc., and tells you their strengths and weaknesses. So it will be a lot easier in the future to pick out tools that will fit the results we want to get. We’ve bought many art supplies in the past and haven’t really known how or when to use them. This book will be an invaluable resource in that area.

There were many helpful sections on value and the color wheel and even how you can make things “pop” by contrasting colors or layering them. The book has many sample pictures that show you what the author is talking about.

I would recommend this book to you if you want an in-depth resource on the tools and materials used in colored pencil pieces. If you are a novice like me, looking for a few techniques, there are probably other books out there that would be less overwhelming.

Thank you to Blogging for Books for providing me with a free copy of this book for the purpose of this review.

[Online Eccentric Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/

The new Colored Pencil is an incredibly thorough resource for artists using this artistic medium whose popularity is growing. From tips, techniques, tools, to the latest in pencil technoogy and attributes, this is a one-stop book for both budding and established artists.

The book is broken down by type of pencil: Wax based (traditional) colored pencils, water-soluble colored pencils, and wax pastels (the new crayon-type of pencil). Each chapter describes the various tools and accessories, brands and their prices/advantages, mediums, and of course different techniques. As well, drawings, in various stages, are presented for learning to create different types of works and very inspirational images are interspersed throughout.

The book is cleanly laid out and easy to read/follow. The sections are broken down in a way to make referencing the various techniques, tips, or tool info easy and efficient. I'm especially glad that the book hasn't been given a crazy 'arty' layout but is instead clean and straight-forward.

Additional artistic information is also presented - such as how to work color theory to create more vibrant drawings and the importance of negative space.

In all, a wonderful resource and perfect for any level of artist since the book has a breakdown of all tools and mediums, their attributes, and price levels.

Received as an ARC from the publisher.

[MaryBeth Isaac · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very comprehensive book on colored pencils - The author describes the different types of colored pencils, the associated qualities and different brands available for each type. (Wax based pencils, Water Soluble Pencils and Wax Pastels). The author also covers what papers and techniques work best for the different pencil mediums and combining different techniques. The author even breaks down different, specific brands of colored pencils by their price range, the number of shades available in the line and the unique characteristics / traits of these.

Although a lot of the information will be helpful for a beginner, I believe the book is targeted more towards the intermediate to advanced artist). Although many techniques were covered, I would also have loved to see some basic techniques covered on shading. I did learn quite a bit on using different papers and employing different techniques depending on the medium. I would recommend this book for artists, beginner through advanced and for serious hobbyists.

For instructional books such as these I read differently than I would a novel. I typically "speed read" the general content and then refer back to specific items or chapters when more information is needed. I have all three mediums of pencils and will definitely be referring back to this book before coloring or trips to the fine art supply store in our area.

Disclosure: I received a free e-copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a review, nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Liz H {Redd's Reads} · Rating 4 out of 5]

With this review, I’m trying something new. I’ve found that scrolling through tumblr on a small mobile device screen makes a paragraph style review very boring and blocky, so the next few reviews will be bullet points of pros and cons with a few wrap up sentences. Hopefully, this will allow for easier comprehension and a better read.

R: Recommended (This is at the top of the pile.)
Creative Must (Does something different really well.)
Pros:
• Great charts that compare brands/types/traits/uses
• Detailed and informative text broken up with images and examples
• Covers every aspect of a colored pencil drawing from start to finish
• Beautiful scans of the artwork presented
• My favorite advice-to create color contrast (shadows and highlights) use complementary color
Cons:
• Touches on basics but is really more for advanced artists or students
• I wanted more step-by-step examples or more sketch/middle image concepts
Overall, this book is a great addition to an artist’s library of technical texts. You can use this information to find new ideas and spruce up your current technique. I would recommend this title for any library (public or school) or any artist interested in utilizing colored pencils in their art.

[Margarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated book for those who are interested in expanding the artistic techniques with pencils.

I am a person who needs a lot of visuals in order to learn something new, and the author delivers with many high quality pictures on many techniques, step-by-step how-to's and finished worked.
Every material is thoroughly discussed with many details, and many tips on how to use these materials are shared.

This book is not intended for beginners, you must have some basic knowledge in using some pencil mediums and know some beginner techniques and lingo. However, it is helpful to have once you are comfortable into experimenting with the new and stepping up into the next level.

What I enjoyed most about the book is that the author uses all of her own drawings to explain her steps, tips and techniques. It is clear that she is very passionate in sharing what she has learned and loves to work with. I admire her work and will definitely be following her creativeness via social media and in her future writings.

I received a paperback from the publisher for an honest review. My thoughts are all my own.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

The New Colored Pencil by Kristy Ann Kutch is a great resource book for the aspiring artist. It is full of beautiful pictures of artwork created with colored pencils. I am fairly new at creating pictures with colored pencils and I was simply amazed at some of the pictures in this book. It really is amazing what you can do with pencils. The book is very informative and gives so much insight to the average person (like me) who is wanting to get started in making beautiful artwork.

The author give lots of information on the tools needed and I had no idea there were so many choices not only in pencils but in the surfaces that you can use. The book takes you step by step through the techniques it takes and the whole book has broadened my knowledge greatly!

The book has ten chapters and is divided into three sections. Part One is on Wax-Based Traditional Colored Pencils, Part Two is on Water-Soluble Colored Pencils and Part Three is on Wax Pastels and Combining Colored Drawing Media. If you are an art student, a seasoned artist or just a novice like me I think this book will be a great resource in your library!

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book to review! It is gorgeous from the cover to the last page. Ameteurs to Artists will appreciate the easy to follow tutorials and beautiful illustrations. I am no painter or colorist, but I love to Scrapbook and Stamp and love to incorporate these into my pages! Who knew there were different types of pencils? Inside you will find a breakdown in the types, prices and specific uses for various types. After spending a few hours with this book, I am re-inspired to sit down with my stamps and pencils this weekend. I specificly will tackle the art of shading, which makes Kristy's pieces pop! If you are in the market for a new Art book this summer, give this a try, you will not be disappointed!

[Elizabeth Grieve · Rating 3 out of 5]

As an amateur artist I must say I have always dismissed colour pencils in favour of oils and acrylics, but this book might tempt me to try them. It gives a comprehensive overview of types of coloured pencil and the relative merits of each one, plus techniques, materials and lots of examples. The artworks illustrating the book are rather good, and as a newcomer to this topic I found the book interesting.

Reviewed in exchange for a preview Kindle copy.

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[Kathy Penrod · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are many good ideas and techniques in this book as well as critiques of paper and different brands of pencils. However, I have read other books that have helped me more. I did learn a few new things that I will give a try but some of the art work just wasn't that good. That being said, I feel somewhat unqualified to make that judgment since the author is a professional artist and a published art instructor and I just draw for a hobby.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very comprehensive book, covering colored pencils, water soluble pencils and wax pastel crayons (permanent and water soluble). Lengthy information on substrates, blending and fixatives as well as techniques. May be daunting to a beginner but also may be inspiring depending on outlook. Valuable information for all experience levels. Highly recommended.

[Tandava Graham · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit beyond what I need at this stage, but lots of good stuff for people more advanced than me. If you want to do close-ups of flowers, especially, this is your book because that's what about 90% of the examples are. (If you don't want to do close-ups of flowers, you might get tired of them.)

[Debbi Huntington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a fantastic book.....full of tips and information that is useful to artists, from beginner to experienced. I highly recommend this book as one you'll keep and use for years.

http://www.yankeeburrowcreations.com/...

Debbi

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations almost photographic , easy to follow information .

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish there were more step-by-step visuals. Great text.

[Amber · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got a few news ideas.

[Andria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like her workshops are!

[Mirian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent instructions. From materials to techniques, everything is very well explained and demonstrated. There are not many step by step projects, but it looks like her other book has them.

[Miriam R. Stobbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book!

Great book. Wish her other book was available as an ebook. I liked the different mediums added to what you can do with colored pencil alone.