How to Start Coloring for Adults and Why

16/05/2025

How to Start Coloring for Adults
Tips for Complete Beginners

Many and many adults are reaching for coloring books—and it's no coincidence. Coloring isn't just for kids; it's a wonderful way to relax, unwind, slow down, and be creative for a while. And the best part? You don't need to be "talented" to start. It's incredibly easy to begin!

Here are some tips to help you dive into coloring without stress and with joy.

🎨 1. Choose a Coloring Book That Speaks to You

There's a vast array of styles available—from nature scenes, mandalas, and animals to characters, fantasy worlds, or female portraits.

Try selecting one that captivates you—whether it's the style, theme, or the emotion it evokes.

TIP: For starters, I recommend coloring books with gentle pre-printed shading ("Grey Scale"). This makes the image appear more realistic even without advanced shading techniques. Such illustrations can also teach you shading—the degree of gray indicates where darker tones should be applied.

Over time, you'll become so adept at shading with colored pencils that you'll achieve a realistic (almost 3D) effect even without the Grey Scale shading.

🎨 2. Colored Pencils? Markers? Watercolors?

Each art supply has its charm. You don't need professional equipment right away—just a few basic shades and a desire to create.

Colored Pencils – Ideal for beginners. They're easy to handle, can be layered and blended. If you're not ready to invest in high-quality pencils, borrow some from your kids' pencil case! If coloring captures your interest, consider pencils with richer pigments later on.
Markers – Vibrant colors, great for smaller areas like mandalas. There are also brush pens that can be blended to create gradients.
Watercolors – A bit more advanced, but if your coloring book has quality paper, give them a try. The key is to avoid using too much water. While there are coloring books specifically designed for watercolors, it's better to start with colored pencils.
Watercolor (Aquarelle) Pencils – Something between pencils and watercolors. Color the image with pencils and then gently blend with a damp brush. This technique requires some practice, but don't be afraid to experiment and learn.

🎨 3. Don't Pressure Yourself

Do you often wonder if you're "doing it right"? Afraid it won't turn out well?

Let go of those thoughts. Try to set aside the pursuit of perfection and the fear of failure. Coloring isn't about performance; there's no way to fail. It's about the process, not creating a masterpiece worthy of a gallery.

Over time, as you desire to improve your technique and learn new tricks, you'll notice your pictures becoming more pleasing to the eye. But for now, just enjoy the unrestricted, carefree coloring and the feeling that comes as you fill the image piece by piece with colors. Set aside all judgments and just play.

There's no right or wrong color combination. Feel free to make pink leaves or purple hair—it's all a game! Especially at the beginning, focus on the process itself. Later on, you might want to learn more about colors and their combinations, but for now, just have fun.

🎨 4. Basic Techniques – A Little Goes a Long Way

Don't press hard on the pencil—it's better to layer the color gently and repeatedly. The result will be smoother and more vibrant. If it's challenging to have a "light touch," try warming up your hand and fingers before coloring. Over time, you'll better gauge and control the pressure.
Regularly sharpen your pencils—you'll have better control and can reach even the smallest areas.
Try blending—gently work two colors into each other where they meet so there's no sharp boundary. It's essential not to press hard and to create a smooth transition.
Add Depth with Light and Shadow - Shading brings life and dimension to your coloring. Start by laying down a base layer of a lighter color. Then, from one side, gently apply a darker shade of the same color and softly blend it into the lighter area. The goal is a smooth gradient that mimics natural light and shadow.
Don't Be Afraid of White Space - Sometimes, less is more. If you're not yet confident in coloring larger background areas, it's perfectly fine to leave them blank. Later on, you'll learn simple tricks to create beautiful backgrounds without too much effort. But for now, focus on the main subject—and trust that it's absolutely enough. 😊

🎨 5. Make it a Ritual
Light a candle, put on your favorite music, brew a cup of tea, and color—even if it's just for 10 minutes a day. Evening time before bed is ideal. You don't need to finish a whole page at once—just a little each day. You'll soon feel how this simple habit helps you slow down, reconnect with yourself, and tune out the noise of the world.

🎨 6. And Most Importantly – Create for You
It doesn't matter whether you frame your finished piece, gift it to someone, post it online, or keep it just for yourself. What truly matters is that the process brings you joy, calm, and a bit of beauty in your everyday life.

Remember, coloring is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy each step, and let your creativity flow freely.

🌟 Why Make Coloring a Regular Habit?

Adult coloring isn't just a relaxing pastime—it's a wonderfully beneficial hobby that supports your emotional well-being, focus, and creativity. Let's take a look at some of the reasons why it's worth making time for:

1. It Calms the Mind and Reduces Stress

Your brain shifts from "analyze and solve" mode into "just be and create" mode. Coloring is like a quiet meditation that helps ease tension. Anxiety and stress fade into the background as you become fully present in the moment.

2. It Improves Focus and Fine Motor Skills

Working with details, shapes, and color choices gently trains your attention and brings you into the now. At the same time, you strengthen your fine motor skills without even noticing.

3. It Sparks Creativity

Even just choosing colors is a creative act—and every stroke is your personal expression. The more you create, the more your creativity grows, along with a natural desire to explore new techniques and grow your skills.

4. It Boosts Your Mood

Art-making has a positive impact on the brain. It releases endorphins and gives you a sense of joy and accomplishment.

5. It Helps You Wind Down Before Sleep

Coloring in the evening is a beautiful way to disconnect from screens and gently ease your mind into a peaceful state before bedtime.

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🎨 Curious to Try?
I've created my own line of coloring books for beginners and experienced colorists alike. They're printed on high-quality paper, spiral-bound for ease and comfort, and—most importantly—hand-drawn with love and care. Each illustration features soft grey shading to gently guide you as you bring it to life.

✨ Browse my ETSY shop or follow me on Instagram and Facebook for inspiration.
I can't wait to see your first finished pages! 💖🎨