I know some of you have been begging me for tips on how to level up your illustrations, so if you are one of these curious people, today is your lucky day! I’m about to drop 10 essential illustration tips to improve your art. Ready to get your creative juices flowing? Let’s do this thing! 

Tip #1: Master Your Illustration Tools (Traditional & Digital)

Traditional Mediums: Pencils and Watercolors:

If you are keen to learn how to paint with watercolours or inks, you should know the different painting techniques and how to mix colours to create a wide range of tones. When we are starting, usually we buy a chunky number of colours and hues, thinking we are doing great. The reality is that, with only 5 or 6 colours, you can manage to create all the colour palette (well, if not all, almost all). It’s also important to learn how to work with different types of watercolour paper, as each one has a unique texture and absorption capacity. In the beginning, maybe you can start buying more affordable papers, as we are going to spoil a lot with the first tries, in this process I learnt that I prefer hot-press papers over cold-press because the texture annoys me. 

Digital Tools: Photoshop, Procreate & More

If you work with digital pencils or graphic tablets, it’s important to know the software you’re using, such as Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, Clip Studio, Illustrator… You may see there are plenty of options with a wide variety of prices, that also offers different tools and brushes available. You should also learn how to work with layers, adjust opacity, and use different blending modes to achieve the desired effects.

To know your tools, it’s essential to practice with them, experiment and watch how other artist works with them. When I first tried to Procreate for the first time I felt so lost, but once I saw other artists’ processes, soon I manage to learn how to use layers and blending modes.  Moreover, it’s important to try different techniques and styles, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes because Practice and experimentation are key to mastering your tools and elevating your skills as an illustrator.  

 Tip #2: Practice Freehand Drawing

Freehand drawing is a fundamental skill for any illustrator, whether working in traditional or digital media. Even if you’re a digital artist, it’s important to practice freehand drawing to expand your skills and have a more in-depth understanding of shapes, proportions, and perspectives.  

 Practising freehand drawing also helps you develop your own drawing style and gives you the opportunity to experiment with different techniques. Some popular techniques for freehand drawing include using lines, shading, and textures to create different effects and styles. 

It’s important to practice freehand drawing regularly to strengthen your skills and keep them sharp. You can start with simple exercises, such as drawing basic shapes and everyday objects, and then progress to more complex and detailed drawings. You can also practice freehand drawing using different types of paper and pencils to experiment with different techniques and textures.  

Another advantage of practising freehand drawing is that it allows you to create quick and spontaneous sketches anytime, anywhere. This can be useful for quickly capturing ideas and concepts and for developing your visualization skills.   

Tip #3: find artistic inspiration sources

Finding inspiration from different sources is fundamental for any illustrator who wants to develop their unique style and keep their creativity fresh. Inspiration can come from various sources such as books, movies, music, art, landscapes, personal experiences, among others.

When it comes to seeking inspiration, it’s important to keep an open mind and be curious. Don’t limit yourself to one type of source, instead, seek inspiration in different places and forms of art. For example, if you’re used to drawing comic book characters, try seeking inspiration from nature, architecture, or photography. This exploration can help you develop new styles and techniques.

It’s also important to take note of your ideas and sources of inspiration. Carry a sketchbook with you so you can jot down ideas or sketch when they come to you. This will help you not to lose valuable ideas and have a list of references and inspirations for future projects.

You can also seek inspiration from the work of other artists. Explore different styles and techniques of other artists, but be certain not to copy their work directly. Instead, seek inspiration from their work and adapt what you’ve learned to your drawing style.

Tip #4: Use art References

Using references is an important tool for any illustrator, as it can help you improve the accuracy and quality of your illustrations. References can come in many forms, from photographs and drawings to physical objects and live models.

By using references, you can better understand the shape and proportion of the objects you are drawing, which can be especially helpful when working with human or animal figures. References can also help you capture unique details and features, such as the texture of skin or the pattern of an animal’s fur.

Furthermore, references can help improve your observation skills and develop your own style and technique. By studying and working with different references, you can learn new techniques and ways to approach drawing and illustration.

It is important to remember that using references does not mean copying or plagiarizing the work of other artists. Instead, it is about using references as a tool to improve your own work and develop your own style and technique.

When using references, it is important to make sure they are accurate and relevant to the subject you are illustrating. It is also important to be aware of copyright laws and obtain permission if necessary to use images or photographs from other artists.

Tip #5: Create preliminary Sketches Before Starting

Creating preliminary sketches before starting an illustration is a common and essential practice for any illustrator. These sketches allow you to plan and visualize your final artwork before starting to work on it, which helps you save time and resources.

Preliminary sketches allow you to experiment with different designs and styles to see what works best. You can play with different proportions, perspectives, textures, and composition elements to create an illustration that is appealing and functional for the intended purpose.

In addition, creating sketches allows you to make changes before starting the final illustration. You can make adjustments to the composition, proportions, and other details before committing to the final artwork. This can save you time and frustration in the process of creating the final illustration.

It’s important to note that preliminary sketches don’t have to be perfect. In fact, it’s better if they’re quick and spontaneous so you can experiment with different ideas. Use pencils and paper to create quick and uncomplicated sketches. You can also use drawing software to create digital sketches.

Once you’ve created your preliminary sketches, choose the one you like the most and transform it into the final illustration. If you’re working on an illustration project for a client, it’s important to share your preliminary sketches with them so they can give their input and make comments.

Tip #6: Experiment with different illustration styles

Experimenting with different styles is an excellent way to discover your artistic preferences and develop your own unique style. While it can be tempting to stick to one style or technique, trying new things and experimenting will help you expand your skills and create more interesting and original illustrations.

Try different styles of illustration, such as realism, surrealism, minimalism, or cartoon style, to discover what you like best and what best fits your projects. You can also experiment with different techniques and materials, such as coloured pencils, watercolours, ink, or digital media, to discover new ways of expressing yourself.

Don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun with your illustrations. Every so often the best ideas and results come when you allow yourself to experiment without worrying too much about the outcome.

In addition, experimenting with different styles also helps you develop your ability to adapt to different projects and clients. While it’s important to have your style, it’s also important to be able to adapt and create illustrations that meet the specific needs of the project or client.

Tip #7: Keep it Simple

Keeping simplicity in your illustrations can be a very effective approach to communicate a message clearly and effectively. Regularly, the most powerful illustrations are those that are clean and simple, and convey an idea in a clear and concise manner.

Instead of trying to fill your illustration with unnecessary details, focus on the most important elements and try to simplify your style. This will help you keep the focus on the message you want to communicate and avoid making your work look overloaded or confusing.

To achieve a simple yet effective illustration, it’s important to have a clear idea of the message you wish to convey. Identify the key elements that are essential to communicate that idea and focus on them. Avoid adding elements that don’t contribute to the story or that may distract the viewer’s attention.

Simplicity can also be achieved through the use of a limited colour palette and a clear composition. If you use a simple and limited colour palette, your illustration will be easier to read and understand. Similarly, a clear composition will help direct the viewer’s attention to the most important elements of the image.

Tip #8: Learn Colour Theory

The choice of colour is an essential part of the illustration creation process. The proper use of colour can help convey emotions and moods, and can make your illustration more effective in conveying a message or story.

The choice of the right colours for an illustration should depend on the theme, story, or message that you want to convey. For example, if you are illustrating a nighttime scene, you may want to use darker shades to create an appropriate atmosphere. If you are illustrating a natural landscape, you may want to use softer and more natural shades to create a relaxed and harmonious environment.

In addition, the choice of colour can also be used to create proper contrast in your illustration. If your illustration is predominantly one colour, it may be necessary to add another colour to create contrast and give it depth and dimension.

It is important to experiment with different combinations of colours and shades to find what works best for you and the story you are illustrating. Try different colour combinations, such as complementary colours, analogous colours, or triadic colours, and make sure the colours you choose are consistent with the story you are trying to tell.

Tip #9: lighting and shadow in art

Working on lighting is a key element to create effective and convincing illustrations. By understanding how light and shadow affect your illustrations, you can improve the quality and depth of your creations.

To work on lighting, you must know the basics of colour theory and how it relates to light and shadow. Understanding how colours mix and how light interacts with them will help you create more realistic and detailed illustrations.

Once you have a basic understanding of colour theory, it’s time to experiment with different types of light and shadow. You can use light to create different effects and atmospheres in your illustrations, such as moonlight, sunlight, or artificial light. Similarly, you can experiment with different types of shadows, such as hard and soft shadows, to create a sense of depth and volume in your illustrations.

It’s also important to consider the direction of the light in your illustrations. Side lighting creates longer and more defined shadows, while front lighting produces softer and more diffuse shadows.

Remember that lighting is a powerful tool to evoke emotions and create atmospheres in your illustrations. You can use lighting to highlight specific elements of your illustration or to create a mysterious or emotional ambience.

Tip #10: Share your work and receive feedback

Sharing your work and receiving feedback is one of the best ways to improve as an artist and illustrator. By showing your work to others, you can gain a different perspective on your work and see things that you may not have noticed before. Additionally, feedback gives you the opportunity to receive comments and suggestions that will help you improve your skills and grow as an artist.

There are many ways to share your work, both online and in-person. Social media is an excellent way to showcase your work to a wider audience. For example, Instagram is a popular platform for artists and designers. You can post your illustrations and receive constructive feedback and comments from other artists and followers.

You can also join art groups online or in-person. These groups allow you to connect with other artists and receive feedback in a safe and supportive environment. Online art groups also allow you to share your illustrations with people from all over the world and receive feedback from a wide variety of cultural and artistic perspectives.

It’s important to remember that feedback may not always be positive, but it’s important not to take it personally. Instead, try to use the feedback to improve and grow as an artist. If you receive negative criticism, try to understand where it’s coming from and use that information to improve your work.

And those are my 10 best illustration tips! I hope they help you improve and enjoy the creative process even more. What’s your favourite tip, or do you have one you’d like to add? Please let me know in the comments!