Chapter 7: The Quick Action List to Start your Coloring Journey

Sometimes, jumping too quickly on the bandwagon results in severe injuries, financially. Although adult coloring is the new fad, it’s not exactly for everyone. Some people opt in to the activity only to realize later on that it’s not for them. Therefore, before investing in several books and expensive coloring materials, try following the below action lists. It will guide you through a proper familiarization process in adult coloring.

Action list for beginners:

• Buy an adult coloring book -- one is enough at this stage

• Purchase colored pencils (either ordinary or soft core)-- a 12-pack is ideal

• Use the basic back-and-forth stroke to fill spaces

• Give layering a try (Reminder! Never press too hard on the paper. If you want a more solid color, simply keep doing the back-and-forth stroke)

• Aim to have one of your works Facebook or Instagram-post friendly

• Color one page every day

Action list for intermediate colorists:

• Buy another adult coloring book -- one with more intricate patterns

• Explore other coloring materials -- by now, opting for watercolor pencils is good

• Perform one of the listed creativity boosters before beginning every coloring activity

• Practice hatching strokes and give texture to your artwork

• Practice layering using hatching and cross-hatching strokes

• Experiment with your watercolor pencil on a page

• Use both colored pencils and watercolor pencils on a page -- it’s a good way for you to determine how to balance layered and textured elements, with smooth and blended elements

• Aim to have one your works framed and displayed in your house

• Color one page every day

Action list for advanced colorists:

• Make your own coloring book -- practice patience and discipline in creating patterns (may it be through a doodle or stencil)

• Explore other coloring materials -- ink tense colored pencils, or art markers are ideal

• Practice two creativity boosters every day even after coloring sessions to train your mind to never limit the explosion of creativity only during the activity

• Combine all types of strokes in one artwork

• Experiment with your new coloring material

• Practice layering and blending with it

• Use three different coloring materials on a page

• Use a few of your best works on a scrapbook

• Color one page every day