The world is a tough place, and it can be hard to find ways to relax and unwind. Some people like to read, some people like to listen to music, and some people like to go for walks. But what if there was a hobby that not only helped you relax, but also allowed you to be creative and productive? That hobby is adult coloring.

Adult coloring has been shown to have a number of benefits for both mental and physical health. For one, it can help reduce stress levels. A study conducted by the University of London found that participants who colored mandalas (a type of circular Buddhist symbol) for 20 minutes showed a significant decrease in cortisol (the stress hormone) levels when compared to those who did not color.

In addition to reducing stress levels, adult coloring can also help improve cognitive function and fight anxiety. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that participants who colored mandalas experienced reduced anxiety and improved moods. Furthermore, the same study found that participants who colored mandalas had better working memory and attention spans than those who did not color.

Although there’s nothing wrong with grabbing a box of crayons if that’s your personal preference, colored pencils are the most popular medium to use with adult coloring books.

The Pros and Cons of Using Colored Pencils in Your Adult Coloring Books

Pros of Working With Colored Pencils in Your Adult Coloring Books

More intricate designs. Colored pencils allow you to color in very small spaces and produce more intricate designs than other mediums like markers or crayons. This is perfect for those delicate designs found in many adult coloring books.
Greater control. With colored pencils, you have much greater control over the intensity of color than you do with other mediums. This allows you to create softer, more nuanced images.
Better for your health. Unlike markers, colored pencils do not release fumes that can be harmful to your health. And since you’re not using scissors or glue, there’s no risk of accidentally inhaling or ingesting any harmful chemicals.
Cheaper. Colored pencils are generally much cheaper than other artistic mediums like paints or markers. And since you’re not likely to use up an entire set in one sitting, they’ll last you a lot longer, too!

Cons of Working With Colored Pencils in Your Adult Coloring Books

Slow process. Coloring with colored pencils can be a slow process, especially if you’re working on a large area. This can be frustrating for those who want to finish their project quickly.
Easier to break. Pencil leads are notoriously easy to break, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to produce smooth lines and consistent coloration. You’ll likely go through a lot of pencils during your coloring session!
Can be sharp. Unlike crayons or markers, colored pencils have sharp points that can be dangerous if used carelessly. Be sure to keep them out of reach of small children who may not understand how to handle them safely.

Whether or not colored pencils are the best medium for adult coloring books is up for debate—it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, there are some clear advantages and disadvantages to using them that should be considered before making a decision.

What to Consider When Buying Colored Pencils for Your Adult Coloring Books

There are two main types of colored pencils on the market: wax-based and oil-based. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Wax-based pencils are generally less expensive than their oil-based counterparts. They also produce brighter colors and are easier to blend. However, wax-based pencils can be more difficult to control, and they’re not as durable as oil-based pencils. If you’re just starting out with adult coloring books, wax-based pencils may be a good option for you.
Oil-based pencils are more expensive than wax-based pencils, but they offer better control and are more durable. If you’re looking for high-quality colored pencils that will last a long time, oil-based pencils are a good choice.

Another factor to consider when purchasing colored pencils is your budget. Are you willing to spend a little extra money on high-quality pencils? Or would you prefer to save some money and go with a cheaper option? It’s important to think about this in advance so that you don’t overspend (or underspend).

How to Shade and Blend With Colored Pencils

For those new to the world of colored pencils, blending and shading can seem like a daunting task. However, with a little bit of practice, it is possible to achieve beautiful results in your adult coloring books.

How to Shade With Colored Pencils

One of the most important things to keep in mind when shading with colored pencils is to use light pressure at first and then increase the pressure as needed. You can also layer your colors to create a more rich and vibrant look. Start with a light color and then add darker colors on top. Another tip is to use a professional-grade coloring pencil so that the colors are pigmented and vibrant.

How to Blend With Colored Pencils

Blending with colored pencils is similar to shading except that you will need to use a bit more pressure. Start by layering your colors as before but make sure to use complementary colors. For example, you can use an orange pencil followed by a yellow pencil. Another tip is to experiment with different types of paper. Some papers are made specifically for blending and will give you better results.

Blending aids can be used to create unique effects. For example, blending colored pencils with lip balm will create a soft watercolor look. You may also want to try making your own blending tortillion with paper and glue.

Consider using a free color combination chart to keep track of which color combos you like best. Implementing a chart system to track color combos is particularly useful if you’re mixing and matching pencils from different brands.

If you’re not sure what color combinations you need, here are some Prismacolor suggestions to get you started:

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shading and Blending

Not using enough pressure. This will result in dull and lifeless colors.
Using too much pressure. This can cause your pencils to break and also makes it more difficult to achieve a smooth blend.
Not starting with light colors. If you start with dark colors, it will be more difficult to add lighter colors on top.
Not using complementary colors. This can make your blending less effective and also make it more difficult to achieve a smooth transition between colors.

Enjoy Creating Vibrant Effects in Your Adult Coloring Books

With these tips in mind, you should be well on your way to becoming a pro at blending and shading with colored pencils! Just remember to start with light colors and apply consistent pressure for the best results. Experiment with different papers until you find one that works best for you and always use a professional-grade coloring pencil for optimal results.