Adult coloring books offer a wonderful way to relax and express creativity. However, like any artistic activity, mistakes can happen. Many beginners and even seasoned colorists make common adult coloring book mistakes that affect the final outcome. The good news? These mistakes are easy to fix! With a few simple adjustments, you can enhance your coloring skills and enjoy the process even more.
Below are 15 common adult coloring book mistakes and how to fix them for better results.
Contents
General Coloring Mistakes
1. Not Planning Your Colors
Randomly selecting colors can lead to an unbalanced or chaotic final piece.
Fix: Choose a color palette before you start. Limit yourself to 4-5 main colors, using color theory or inspiration from nature and design resources like Pinterest.
2. Skipping the Color Test
One of the biggest adult coloring book mistakes is not testing colors beforehand, which can lead to unexpected shades.
Fix: Always test your colors on a scrap piece of paper to ensure they match your vision.
3. Using the Wrong Paper
Thin or low-quality paper can lead to bleeding, smudging, or poor blending.
Fix: Invest in coloring books with thick, high-quality paper suited for your coloring tools.
4. Holding the Pen Too Tightly
A tight grip can cause hand fatigue and make it harder to color smoothly.
Fix: Hold your coloring tool lightly, applying pressure only as needed, and take breaks to avoid strain.
5. Comparing Yourself to Others
Constantly measuring your work against others can reduce the joy of coloring.
Fix: Focus on your progress and creativity. Coloring is a personal and relaxing hobby—perfection isn’t the goal.
>>> Read more: 7 Amazing Benefits of Adult Coloring You Need to Know
Mistakes When Using Colored Pencils
6. Not Layering Enough
Applying just one layer can result in flat, dull coloring.
Fix: Build up multiple layers to create depth and richness in your artwork.
7. Coloring Too Dark Too Soon
Pressing too hard at the start can make blending difficult.
Fix: Start with light layers and gradually deepen the color.
8. Using Harsh Strokes
Coloring in a single direction can create unnatural, streaky lines.
Fix: Use circular or cross-hatching strokes for smoother blending.
Mistakes When Using Markers and Brush Pens
9. Using Too Much Ink
Oversaturating the paper can lead to bleeding and smudging.
Fix: Apply ink lightly and avoid excessive layering.
10. Leaving Streaks While Coloring
Low or uneven coloring can cause visible streaks.
Fix: Work quickly and blend while the ink is still wet.
11. Pressing Too Hard and Damaging the Pen Tip
Heavy pressure can fray brush pen tips, reducing their effectiveness.
Fix: Use a gentle touch and smooth paper to prolong pen life.
12. Storing Pens Incorrectly
Improper storage can cause markers to dry out or distribute ink unevenly.
Fix: Store pens horizontally and always cap them tightly.
Mistakes When Using Gel Pens
13. Not Checking the Ink Flow Before Coloring
Clogged or inconsistent ink flow can ruin a smooth coloring experience.
Fix: Test gel pens on scrap paper before applying them to your artwork.
14. Dropping Gel Pens
Accidental drops can damage the internal ink flow.
Fix: Handle gel pens with care and store them securely.
15. Smudging Ink While Coloring
Gel ink takes longer to dry, making it easy to smudge—one of the most common adult coloring book mistakes.
Fix: Color in a direction that avoids touching wet ink—left to right for right-handed people and right to left for left-handed individuals.
Making adult coloring book mistakes is part of the learning process. The key is recognizing them and knowing how to fix them. By planning your colors, using the right tools, and refining your techniques, you can significantly improve your results.
Have you encountered any of these adult coloring book mistakes? Try these tips and see how they transform your artwork. Enjoy the journey, embrace creativity, and keep coloring!
If you have any questions about fixing coloring mistakes or finding the right coloring book theme for you, feel free to comment below! The Tiny Daisy team is here to help!
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