3 Creative Shadow Techniques Using Felt Tip Pens

Yes, you heard that right.

You can definitely create a shadow effect on your drawings using a felt tip pen.

Interested to learn how?

Then, read this article until the end to learn the tips and tricks on how to create shadow techniques using colored felt tip pens.

Let’s get started!

3 Easy Shadow Techniques Using Felt Tip Pens

#1. Use different felt tip pen colors

Especially for a more layered or gradient effect, add matching colors to the sections of your drawing. 

Finding the right color combos makes your artwork stunning and looks realistic.

With this technique, try creating a sunset or sunrise drawing and experiment with the colors that go well with it.

#2. Consider the weight of lines in your drawing

Well, colors are not the only factors that make your artwork stand out.

Another simple technique you can use is by adding different weights of the lines within your drawing. 

This helps add variety and capture your audience’s attention.

#3. Experiment with your felt tip pen to add shadow effects 

This technique can be tricky and difficult since you’re using a felt tip pen instead of a pencil.

However, once done correctly, this technique can totally enhance your drawings and make them look like a pro did it.

To help you get started, follow these helpful tips below:

Tip #1: Remove the lid of your felt tip pen

Aside from felt tip pens, you can also use a fineliner or fountain pen (with India ink) for this technique. 

Tip #2: Practice drawing cylindrical shapes first

You can start by drawing simple objects like a cylinder or log.

Tip #3: Start creating a shadow cast

First, draw small lines that cross over each other, or what is called superimposing.

Draw more lines on top of each other, and the shadow can get darker and appear more intense.

Tip #4: Add small dots and lines

On another drawing, enhance your shadow effects using a felt tip pen by adding small lines and dots that don’t overlap each other.

The trick here is to plan which section of your drawing to enhance.

That’s because the distance of dots and lines can intensify your shadows.

If you draw dots that are close to each other, the more intense your shadows will be.

This technique also adds a stone or concrete-like effect to your drawing.

Tip #5: Draw parallel lines

For this technique, draw parallel lines and make sure they follow the shape of the object you’re drawing.

In your cylinder drawing, add parallel lines that are slightly curved since you’re drawing a log shape.

And for a more enhanced effect, add smaller or separate lines. 

Pro tip: Create perpendicular lines (straight lines that create 90 90-degree angle with another line) to the existing ones for a more enhanced shadow effect.

BONUS Tip: Experiment and harness your creative freedom

Aside from the tips and tricks mentioned, don’t forget to pay attention to your creative imagination.

You can create doodles or freestyle your shadows on your drawing.

Scribble more on the sections of your drawing that you want to add more intensity or weight.

Besides dots and lines, you can also try drawing a letter and repeating it to create a shadow effect.