Colored pencils are a fascinating medium, offering a palette rich with nuance, versatility and creative potential. Successful colored pencil artists and teachers, Janie Gildow and Barbara Benedetti Newton answer the most commonly asked questions about colored pencil techniques.Over twenty easy-to-follow, step-by-step demonstrations show you how to:Select the right tools, as well as set up your workspace to optimize efficiency and comfortEffectively express yourself through color and value to create light, shadow and moodUse and master basic essential colored pencil techniquesCreate the look of realistic metal, including brass, copper and silverCreate glass that sparkles, mirrors that reflect and water that distortsCreate realistic texture, from slippery satin, fuzzy peaches and velvety roses to coarse linen and the bumpy surface of cornFix common mistakes and problems with easy-to-use solutions Whether you already enjoy working with colored pencils or are looking to try this exciting medium for the first time, this book will provide you with all the information you need to create your own colored pencil compositions.