Learn how to blend colors and create a beautiful abstract drawing of a fall tree. No need for paint or even oil pastels, as crayons do a fine job too!

Learning how to Blend Colors

When students have learned how to color or paint neatly with one color, it might be time to show them how to blend two colors, so that one makes a soft and gradual transition into the other. It’s a great skill to have for all kinds of projects, especially when it comes to fall drawings.

One might think that the easiest way to blend colors is with paint, as the colors will mix more easily than with any other medium. There are actually some drawbacks with that though. Whether it is watercolor or tempera, it takes a light touch, which is not easy when you’re more of a beginner. In addition, teachers don’t always have access to paint, or the time for all the cleaning that painting entails.

Not to worry, it turns out that crayons actually do a fine job in this area too! They actually call for a heavy hand, as students need to lay down lots of color, and then scribble back and forth with them over the edge until a softer look appears.

Just remind them that working with two similar colors will produce the best results. In other words, the darker and lighter shades of one color, as shown in my example. It takes some patience, but once the skill is conquered, all kinds of coloring possibilities open up.