Karen Campbell's weekly Blog.

Mixed Media Art Supplies I NEVER Leave Home Without!

17/9/2024

I have some super exciting news to share: I'm currenlty IN Scotland working on a brand new Outlander-inspired course with my artist bestie, Lucy Brydon!! We've been visiting all the filming locations, awesome stone circles, historical sites and are now developing amazing Outlander-inspired online watercolor lessons just FOR YOU!

Today's *NEW* YouTube video was shot the day before I left and walks ya through which mixed media art supplies I packed for my trip and WHY.  Come check it out!!

Art Supplies I Never Leave Home Without by Karen Campbell Artist.png

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

All About My Awesome Pouch

First up, is my little purple pencil pouch (it also comes in 8 additional colors). I found this online during a shopping spree with one of my magical team members, Margo! We were hunting for new gift ideas for our Awesome Art School club members and winners of our monthly giveaways, and this corduroy pouch caught my eye.

Sooez Soft Courduroy Large Pencil Case Pouch Loved by Karen Campbell Artist.jpg

It’s so cute and fits everything I need!
And was honestly a steal on Amazon for less than $10!

Karen Campbell Artist's MUST HAVE Travel Art Supplies 2024.png

Here's what I put inside...

Polka Dot Maker & Copic White: For perfect eye shine! I just dip that little dot maker right into my bottle of Copic White and boom! Gorgeous eye shine :)
Blending Stump & Blackwing Matte Pencil: Essential for shading and drawing. In case you're new to Blackwings or me, I feel like ONE Blackwing pencil is equal to an ENTIRE pencil set! Learn more about that here.
Mechanical Pencils: I always bring a heavy duty one , and light for softer strokes
Pentel Pocket Brush Pen: My go-to for drawing gorgeous eyelashes (check out a video about that HERE).
Uniball Signo: the pen I LOVE for outlining and sketching over watercolor or elegant writer pieces like the Celtic Collective butterfly project below...

Celtic Collective Butterfly Online Art Lesson in Watercolor with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Zebra Fountain Pen: An amazing, affordable pen that’s perfect for sketching and filled with water-soluble ink (NOT for using on top of watercolor by the way :)

Additional Must-Haves

I also packed my...

Water Brush: Perfect for activating my zebra fountain pen or an elegant writer to create watercolor effects in a drawing
Kuretake White Ink Pen: Great for adding white highlights.
Pilot Racer Calligraphy Pen: This one is new to me and I can't wait to try this bad boy out! It has a whopping 6mm tip!
Tombow Mono Eraser: For those tiny highlights and saving my mechanical pencil erasers.

Kuretake White Ink Brush Pen Loved by Karen Campbell Artist.png

MORE Essential Supplies for Scotland

Even MORE Must Have art supplies that I can't leave home without...

Little Pencil Sharpener: Compact and super handy.
Vanish Eraser: The best eraser ever!
Col-Erase Pencils: Ideal for underdrawings; they are erasable and come in fun colors.
Ceramic Palette: My favorite! So much better than plastic.
Watercolor Palette: Filled with some vibrant QOR watercolors
Swatch Book: Holds all my watercolor swatches for quick reference.
Sponges: Great for adding texture to things like clouds and bushes (or "booshes" as Lucy says in her glorious Scottish accent!)

Sea Sponge Uses in Watercolor with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Sketchbooks and Brushes

And of course, I’m bringing along some sketchbooks and brushes:

Hardcover Watercolor Sketchbook: Perfect for urban sketching, or a Leather Sketchbook COVER (as seen in my video!) - because I'm a sucker for the smell of leather 🤣 and this looks like a simple way to carry around a spiral bound pack of watercolor paper!
Brush Roll: This one holds over 22 brushes, including my favorite Polina Bright brushes (learn more about WHY I love them so much HERE) , flatheads, and rigor painters.
Round Watercolor Paper Block: A new addition I’m excited to use for portraits and florals.

Watercolor Brush Roll Loved by Karen Campbell Artist.png

Final Thoughts

Phew! Those are all the art supplies I packed for my Scotland adventure! If I weren’t teaching and was just on a vacation, I’d probably only lug along my little pouch with all the essentials and a larger watercolor journal.

Thanks for sticking around!

Don’t forget to follow along on my Scottish art journey on Instagram!

Artists Karen Campbell & Lucy Brydon Instructors in the Celtic Collective Online Fantasy Art Club

Looking for Something Else?

🔥Watch today's video on YouTube

🧚Learn MORE about our Celtic Collective Fantasy Art Club!

❤️️Follow my channel for more tips and tutorials on using alcohol markers effectively.

💃Connect with Me
If you have any questions or need further assistance, drop them in the comments below or email me directly. I’m always excited to connect with fellow artists and help you on your creative journey!

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How to Use Whimsical Face Drawing Guidelines to Draw a Quick & Easy Face Step by Step!

3/9/2024

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I have a face drawing addiction! I adore sketching whimsical faces, fashion faces, cartoon-style showgirls, kids, and even some adorable babies. And yes, I also have a soft spot for drawing hot guys (think Fairy Kings and Pirates!). In today's *new video* on YouTube, I'm gonna walk you through how to draw a whimsical face using my FREE face drawing guidelines. Let's get started!!

How to Draw a Whimsical Face with Guidelines Step by Step in 2024 with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Why I Created Face Drawing Cheat Sheets

Historically, to help my students draw any style or gender of faces, I shared basic whimsical face drawing guidelines that I used myself for every face I drew.

Over time, I realized that these guidelines had limitations. They were too general, and not specific enough for different drawing styles. To make things easier for my fellow face-drawing enthusiasts, I created SIX separate, and VERY specific face drawing guidelines to help students learn how to draw whimsical or realistic female faces, female fashion faces, whimsical babies, kids, and EVEN men.

I’ve bundled all my face drawing guidelines / cheat sheets together into one simple PDF that you can download for FREE!

Karen Campbell Artist Face Drawing Guidelines PDF.jpg

How to Draw a Whimsical Face Step by Step

One you’ve got your guidelines downloaded and printed, gather your drawing supplies and pop over to today’s new YouTube video for a little face drawing practice. You DON’T need any fancy drawing supplies- just a simple sheet of notebook or computer paper and any old pencil will do.

To see ALL of this in action, make sure you tune into today’s NEW video on my YouTube Drawing channel :)

Let’s break this into a handful of simple steps, shall we?

EASY Face Drawing Tutorial with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube 2024.png

Step 1: Draw an Oval

Begin by lightly sketching an oval. Don’t worry about perfection – draw lots until one feels right. Once you have a favorite, refine it with a slightly darker line.

How to Draw a Whimsical Face with Guidelines and Karen Campbell Artist Step by Step on YouTube.png

Step 2: Sketch in Your Whimsical Face Drawing Guidelines

Sketch in a vertical line through the center of your oval.
Next, lightly sketch in a horizontal “eye line,” right across the middle of your oval. Then, lightly draw three horizontal ovals across the eye line.

Eventually the outside ones will become eyes. Add a “nose line” by measuring halfway from the eye line to the chin (or bottom of your oval / face shape). This is roughly one-third of the face length. Finally, add a “lip line” by measuring halfway between the nose line and chin.

Remember, it’s WAY easier to do this with me in real-time while you’re watching the YouTube video.

Step 3: Drawing Whimsical Facial Features

People ask me for tips on drawing facial features ALL the time. These are a few of my faves!

How to Draw Eyes Evenly: Build symmetry by drawing both eyes at one time.
How to Draw a Button Nose: Start with a small ball shape and add smaller nostril balls on either side.
How to Draw a Cute, Happy Mouth: Start by drawing a little mountain for the top lip. Then curve up on each side to create a happy expression.
How to Draw Eyebrows & Eyelids: I LOVE changing these features up to add personality to my face drawings. Drawing small lines for eyebrows and additional lines above the eyes for eyelids can make a huge difference. Watch how I do this in today’s new YouTube video, and make sure to play along with me at home to get some practice and see what YOU like!!

How to Draw Hair on a Whimsical Face Step by Step with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Step 4: Hair and Neck

For whimsical faces, hair should extend down from a part line into the face oval. There should also be volume ABOVE the face shape because hair has volume. Be sure to watch the video to see what I mean.

How to Add Shadows and Shading to a Whimsical Face Drawing in 2024 with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

How to Add Shadows, Shading and Fininishing Touches

If you have a blending stump, use it to add shadows and shading along the hairline, and under the eyes, nose, and mouth. This brings out the whimsical charm of your face, and adds sophistication to your drawing. After you do a little shading,don’t forget to add additional eyelashes (I have a WHOLE UPDATED VIDEO DEDICATED TO DRAWING EYELASHES HERE with a practice sheet for you). You’ll also want to darken any lines that got blurred during shading.

Wasn’t that FUN?!

To see the making of THIS BEAUTY ABOVE, check on this video and hang with me till then end to see her come to life :)

LOVE Drawing Faces as Much as I Do?

If you love drawing faces or need motivation, accountability, and inspiration, join my Fun Fab Drawing Club! With over 375 projects and live workshops every month, it’s an artist’s paradise. Use the coupon code TRYIT to save 60% off your first month!

Stay creative and happy drawing!

Looking for Something Else?

🔥Watch my Recent Ohuhu 120 Marker Set Review & Demo and why it's crucial for your projects!

⬇️Download free Face Drawing Guidelines PDF HERE

❤️️Follow my channel for more tips and tutorials on how to draw and shade faces!

💃Connect with Me
If you have any questions or need further assistance, drop them in the comments below or email me directly. I’m always excited to connect with fellow artists and help you on your creative journey!

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The Ultimate Guide to Using Ohuhu 120 Marker Set!!

28/8/2024

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Ohuhu recently reached out to me to review their 120 marker pack, and naturally, I couldn't resist. My obsession with alcohol markers (and the Ohuhu brand!!) is well-known; I love the instant impact alcohol markers bring to any drawing.

In today's new video on YouTube, I'll share my approach to getting comfortable with the Ohuhu Honolulu 120 Colors Dual Tips Alcohol Art Marker set - even if you're a complete beginner. Additionally, I'll highlight WHY I highly recommend Ohuhu and provide some useful tips on maximizing their potential. Let's dig in!!

The Ultimate Guide to Using Ohuhu 120 Marker Set with Karen Campbell Artist.png

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

Why I Love Alcohol Markers

Markers are a staple in my art toolkit because of their ability to add vibrant and dynamic colors to any artwork. I've used them extensively, taught classes on them, and even published books like the one below - dedicated to helping alcohol marker lovers choose the perfect skin tone marker combos to shade gorgeous portraits!

Skin Tone Secrets Alcohol Markers Guide Art Book by Karen Campbell Artist.png

Authentic Recommendation

It's important to point out that despite any assumptions, I've never been sponsored by Ohuhu before this. In fact, I approached them myself before publishing my Skin Tone Secrets book, but I received no response. Since then, I've bought multiple skin tone alcohol marker sets by Ohuhu with my own money because I genuinely LOVE them!

Ohuhu Alcohol Markers Dual Brush Tip Set of 120 Loved by Karen Campbell Artist .png

Swatching: A Necessary Step

One of the first things I do with a new marker set is swatch the colors. Ohuhu markers are affordable, costing about a dollar each compared to the more expensive industry-standard, Copics. In terms of quality, Ohuhu markers are on par with their costly counterparts.

Swatching helps you familiarize yourself with each color. Though it might seem tedious, it can save you countless hours later. I start by swatching skin tones and then proceed with the other colors. It’s funny how the organization of colors sometimes doesn’t make sense, and cap colors don't match the ink inside, making swatching is vital.

How to Swatch Ohuhu Alcohol Markers 120 Set with Karen Campbell Artist.png

GRAB MY FREE SWATCH SHEET!

I've put together TONS of resources to help make swatching alcohol markers (and really ANY art supply!) more fun. Grab my FREE SWATCH SHEET to make your swatching process more fun :)

Remember to print your swatch sheet on cardstock like this one by Hammermill. Alcohol markers glide beautifully across it, and it's only 7 cents/sheet!!

Karen Campbell's Fun Fab Swatch Sheet for Alcohol Markers & More.jpg

I've also created a super fun BOOK called Swatch! Copy! Color! for you to play around with swatching markers (or any art supply!) in as well.

Organization Tips

Another tip is to organize your markers in a way that makes sense to you. Personally, I group similar colors together to avoid the hassle of searching for the right shade later. This organization makes drawing more efficient and enjoyable. I LOVE marker storage units like this sitting at my art table so all my colors are within easy reach!

The Importance of Paper

Paper choice is critical when working with alcohol markers. I recommend using Strathmore marker paper or Bristol paper. Each paper type serves a unique purpose; marker paper is excellent for blending, while Bristol provides a sturdy surface for final projects.

👉Watch my detailed video on the best papers for alcohol markers for more in-depth insights.

Getting to Know Your Markers

Swatching is not just about filling in color samples; it's about getting to know your markers intimately. You'll notice that sometimes colors that appear similar have slight variations that can make a big difference in your artwork. By swatching twice—first on a card provided, and then again on the paper you're going to use —you get a comprehensive understanding of each marker's behavior.

Organizing Your Markers

After swatching, I move my markers into storage bins or wooden marker holders like this to keep my workspace tidy. This not only helps with organization but also streamlines my creative process. An orderly workspace leads to a clearer mind and more efficient work.

How to Organize Your Ohuhu Alcohol Markers 120 Set with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Preparing for a Project

Before diving into any project, I pre-select the colors by swatching them together on a separate sheet. For example, if I'm working on a fairy illustration for my Celtic Collective Fantasy Art Club students, I'll pick out the shades I need and test how they look together. This way, there are no surprises, and I can ensure a harmonious color palette.

Choosing Colors with Low Contrast

When working on faces or any subject that requires delicate blending, it's crucial to choose colors with low contrast. High contrast between shades can make blending difficult and result in an unnatural look. Subtle variations in color ensure a smooth, gradient effect that looks professional and polished.

How to Choose Ohuhu Skin Tone Markers with Low Contrast for Gorgeous Shading & Blending with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Working Quickly

One essential tip for using alcohol markers is to work quickly. Just like paint, the ink can dry and affect the blending process. If you move swiftly, you maintain the wetness of the ink, allowing for seamless blending and fewer visible brush strokes.

Directional Brush Strokes

The technique you use with your brush strokes can also dramatically affect your final result. For smooth surfaces like skin, circular blending strokes work best. For detailed textures like hair, use strokes that mimic the natural direction of the strands for a more realistic effect. Align your brush strokes with the object’s natural form to enhance the realism of your coloring.

Alcohol Markers and Mixed Media

Alcohol markers do not mix well with other art mediums like acrylics. They work best as the bottom layer in mixed media projects. Limited layering with colored pencils, a bit of ink, and white highlights can be used, but for the most part, alcohol markers should be the foundational layer.

What Art Supplies Work Well ON TOP of Ohuhu Alcohol Markers with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Love the Project Above?

Me too! She's one of the fairy drawing projects that will be released in my Celtic Collective fantasy art club next month :) The drawing and coloring portions of this project and over 260 others are all step-by-step in real-time. LEARN MORE or JOIN the Celtic Collective HERE.

My Verdict on Ohuhu Markers

After extensively using the Ohuhu markers, I can confidently state that they offer excellent value for their price. The 120 marker set is robust enough to cover various projects, from portraiture to landscapes, while still being budget-friendly. Multiple shades within each color family allow for detailed and nuanced work, especially for skin tones.

Get the Most Out of Your Ohuhu Markers

Ohuhu was SUPER GENEROUS and is offering a10% Discount on all purchases at their store using the coupon code KARENCAMPBELL10. The 120 set featured today is an affordable and high-quality option for both beginners and seasoned artists. They also sell a (cheaper than Amazon) bamboo marker organizer for just $54 that looks awesome!!

Ohuhu Honolulu 120 Colors Dual Tips Alcohol Art Marker Set Loved by Karen Campbell Artist.png

Final Thoughts

Using markers can be incredibly rewarding with the right approach and materials. By taking the time to swatch, organize, and select the appropriate paper, you set yourself up for success. Ohuhu markers provide a great balance between cost and quality, making them a favorite in my studio.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or comments. I'm here to help you make the most of your alcohol marker experience.

Happy drawing AND COLORING!!

Additional Resources

🔥Watch my latest video on marker paper and why it's crucial for your projects!

⬇️Download free swatching sheets HERE

❤️️Follow my YouTube Drawing Channel for more tips and tutorials on using alcohol markers effectively.

💃Connect with Me
If you have any questions or need further assistance, drop them in the comments below or email me directly. I’m always excited to connect with fellow artists and help you on your creative journey!

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Why PAPER matters WAY MORE than your MARKERS!!

6/8/2024

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Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of paper selection for alcohol markers. If you've ever struggled with streaky, uneven layers while using alcohol markers, today's video is a must-watch.

Why Paper Matters MORE Than Your Markers with Karen Campbell Artist.png

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

For the past DECADE and through seven published books on alcohol markers, I’ve been loyal to my trusty Bristol paper (or a slightly less expensive alternative by Hammermill). These smooth, reliable surfaces have been my go-to for all my marker masterpieces.

However, I recently stumbled upon a new kind of marker paper that promised to change the game. Intrigued? So was I!

Why Paper is Everything and Matters MORE Than Your Alcohol Markers with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn in today’s video:

1. The Difference Between Good and Bad Paper: I start by showing you what happens when you use a less-than-ideal, absorbent cardstock. Spoiler alert: It’s not pretty. The markers look patchy and uneven (see the fairy forehead and nose bridge below), proving just how crucial the right paper is.

What Happens When You Use Cheap Paper for Alcohol Markers with Karen Campbell Artist.png

2. Testing New Marker Paper: I put Strathmore marker paper to the test, comparing it to my beloved Bristol. You’ll see firsthand how this new paper handles initial streaks and how it performs during the blending process. The results? Let’s just say, they’re quite surprising.

Strathmore Marker Paper Demo with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

3. Layering Techniques: I demonstrate my layering technique, blending multiple shades to achieve smooth, vibrant colors. You’ll see the magic happen as the pigments mix and melt into one another on the paper, resulting in beautifully blended art!

How to Blend Alcohol Markers Smoothly with Karen Campbell Artist.png

By the end of this video, you’ll have a clear understanding of WHY the right paper is essential for alcohol markers, and how it can elevate your artwork to the next level.

Love the Alcohol Marker Drawings
Featured in Today's Video?

Yay!! Me too :) They're part of our *NEW* Introduction to Alcohol Markers online art lessons inside the Celtic Collective Art Club.

The Celtic Collective is a fantasy art club membership filled with over 260 online art lessons designed to teach you how to draw and paint fairies, mermaids, castles, mythical creatures & more from scratch!

Learn MORE or JOIN here!!

Lucy and I would LOVE to have you!!

Looking for Something Else?

❤️ LINK TO THE BOOK FEATURED in today's video
❤️ CHECK OUT ALL my online art classes @ Awesome Art School
❤️ CHECK OUT ALL my art books on AMAZON
❤️ MY FAVORITE ART SUPPLIES on AMAZON (affiliate links)
❤️ MY BELOVED FACEBOOK GROUP

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How did I NOT KNOW ASMR drawing was a thing?!

1/8/2024

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I've recently discovered HOW COOL ASMR drawing and painting videos can be! I didn't even know they were a "thing" until I was recently suffering with migraines and needed a relaxing distraction from the pain. That's when I stumbled into the cool, new-to-me-world of ASMR.

ASMR Drawing Video with a Glass Dip Pen & Fountain Pen Ink and Karen Campbell Artist.png

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

If you're new to ASMR, let me explain. ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. It's a tingling sensation that usually starts on the scalp and moves down the neck and spine. According to Wikipedia, ASMR is a subjective experience of "low-grade euphoria" characterized by "a combination of positive feelings and a distinct static-like tingling sensation on the skin." It's typically triggered by specific auditory or visual stimuli, and sometimes through intentional attention control. Pretty cool, right?!

ASMR Drawing with Fountain Pen Ink, a Glass Pen and Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

Inspired by the calming effects of these videos, I decided to create one of my own. In today's new YouTube video, I'm drawing with a Glass Dip Pen and Fountain Pen Ink.

This idea wouldn't have come to fruition without the generous gift from Stephne Nash, a wonderful member of my Wonder Bundle community. She gifted me my very first Glass Pen last year and I've been obsessed ever since!! Check out the unboxing of that gift here and my first impressions. Absolutely mind-blowing!

ASMR Drawing with Green Fountain Pen Ink, a Glass Pen & Karen Campbell Artist.png

In today's video, I won't be talking. Instead, you'll hear the calming sounds of me art-ing in my studio just like you were sitting right next to me - from the unboxing of my dip pen and filling a cup with water to the soothing sounds of the pen gliding across the paper and my glass beads rattling in my water jar when I dip my watercolor brush to activate the fountain pen ink lines in my drawing.

Stay with me till the end to see this King & Queen fountain pen ink drawing turn into a painting.

ASMR Fountain Pen Ink Painting & Drawing with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Wanna Draw Along with Me?

Awesome!!! If you don't have the same supplies- feel free to use whatever you have on hand! Need my face drawing guidelines to make face drawing even EASIER? Heck ya, you do!!

Click the button below to download my cheatsheet for FREE.

Want MORE Step-by-Step Drawing Projects?!

Amazing!! Check out the Fun Fab Drawing Club with me over at Awesome Art School :) We are having so much FUN drawing together. I've compiled a huge library of online drawing lessons for students of all levels (especially beginners!), and release a new one each month, PLUS do an exclusive, LIVE draw along with members monthly.

Learn about ALL the additional benefits club members enjoy here :)

learn-how-to-draw-anything-with-karen-campbell-artist-in-the-fun-fab-drawing-club-at-awesome-art-school.png

Looking for Something Else?

❤️ CHECK OUT ALL my online art classes @ Awesome Art School
❤️ CHECK OUT ALL my art books on AMAZON
❤️ MY FAVORITE ART SUPPLIES on AMAZON (affiliate links)
❤️ MY BELOVED FACEBOOK GROUP

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Are Staedtler Pigment Arts Brush Pens AS MAGICAL as Pitt Pens by Faber-Castell??

3/7/2024

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I am super excited about today’s video on my Mixed Media YouTube channel. If you’ve been following me for a while, you KNOW how much I adore my Pitt Pens by Faber-Castell, and am OBSESSED with their new dual tip re-design (watch that review here). Pitt pens have been my go-to for creating whimsical girl art on canvases and in my art journals for YEARS.

Their only downfall? PRICE.

A set of 30 gorgeous Faber Castell Pitt Artist Pen Dual Markers will set ya back about $180. I KNOW....

I've never found an alternative until today. Join me on YouTube to see if Staetdler Pigment Arts Pens can be trusted to deliver dramatic results in YOUR Hamburger System projects!!

Karen Campbell Mixed Media Artist, YouTuber, Author, and Online Art Lesson Instructor.png

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

Not sure what the Hamburger System is? It's my tried-and-true mixed media layering process for achieving stellar results EVERY TIME I sit down to create whimsical girl art at my art table :)

CLICK HERE to grab a copy of my cheatsheet for your own art table!!

When you're ready, check out this playlist to learn about each layer of the Hamburger System, and if you prefer, grab a copy of the full-color book on Amazon. It's such a helpful resource!!

Karen Campbell's Mixed Media Hamburger System Book Available on Amazons Worldwide.jpg

Now back to today's video.

For years, Pitt Pens have been the only color PERMANENT pigment marker I could rely on. Today, we're diving into Staedtler Pigment Arts Brush Pens. I'll be unboxing and comparing them to my beloved Pitt Pens, focusing on price, quality, and usability.

My big question is can pigment arts pens deliver STELLAR results in Hamburger System projects AND save my students money?

Staedtler Pigment Arts Pen Set of 36 Review and Demo by Karen Campbell Artist.png

Right from the start, I know the pigment arts pens will save ya money. A set of 36 is available on Amazon for just over $50.

When comparing a pigment arts pens with one of my "skinny" barel (single nib) Pitt Pens side by side, they look pretty similar in terms of barrel and nib sizes (Pitt pen shown on the bottom).

Pitt Pens vs Pigment Arts Pens with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Staedtler offers a great variety of colors in their set of 36, especially in the pink family – a huge plus for me as a mixed media artist focused on whimsical girl art!

If we compare the pigment arts pens set of 36 with the dual tip Pitt Pens set of 30, you actually get MORE shades of pinks, greens, and blues (my favorite colors!) from Staedtler. BONUS!!

Staedtler Pigment Arts Pens vs Faber Castell Pitt Pens Demo with Karen Campbell Artist.png

As someone who loves creating whimsical faces, I did find the variety of skin tone markers in the Staedtler pack a bit lacking:(

It looks like I can make about four of them work for my signature “Hamburger System” style projects. But we'll have to see how they perform and what the ink actually looks like over mod podge.

Pigment Arts Brush Pen Skin Tone Markers Reviewed by Karen Campbell Artist.png

When I first started working with the Staedtlers, the nibs felt a bit small for me because I love to work big. However, I know many of my students PREFER working on a smaller scale, so they might just love pigment arts brush pens– especially considering a price point of $53 for a set of 36 colors (compared to $180 for 30 dual tip pitt pens, or $207 for a set of 60 single nib pitt pens).

Staedtler Pigment Arts Brush Pens Set of 30 Cost on Amazon with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Initially, I felt there weren't enough skin tone markers in the Staedtler set, but after working with them on a light-skinned acrylic painting of a whimsical face, I LOVE how the pale tan and pink markers added subtle, yet gorgeous shading to my painting.

How to Shade an Acrylic Painting of a Whimsical Face with Pigment Arts Pens and Karen Campbell Artist.png

All the colors I tested ranged somewhere between transparent and opaque, which is perfect for blending and how I typically use pitt pens in Hamburger System projects.

One interesting omission from the Staedtler competition is a white marker. However, I absolutely loved their black pigment arts pen! The nib was PERFECT for adding delicate outlines, eyelashes, and eyeliner to my girl's face.

How to Draw Stunning Eyelashes on a Whimsical Face with Staedtler Pigment Arts Pen and Karen Campbell Artist.png

Wanna Create Whimsical Girl Art Like the Canvas
Featured in Today's Mixed Media Art Tutorial?

Check out my Mixed Media Society over at Awesome Art School.

It's perfect for artists of ALL levels, including beginners.

We're having a blast learning about ALL the mixed media supplies, plus how to combine and layer them to create mixed media art we can be proud of on canvases and in our art journals :)

We would LOVE to have YOU join us!!

karen-campbell-mixed-media-artist-author-instructor-founder-of-the-mixed-media-society.png

Looking for Something Else?

❤️ CHECK OUT ALL my art books on AMAZON
❤️ CHECK OUT ALL my online art classes @ Awesome Art School
❤️ MY FAVORITE ART SUPPLIES on AMAZON (affiliate links)
❤️ MY BELOVED FACEBOOK GROUP

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Mind BLOWN over NEW DESIGN of Faber-Castell Pitt Pens + The Magical Way I Use Them!

26/6/2024

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I've been using Faber Castell Dual Pitt Pens FOR YEARS to simplify my mixed media painting. They are an essential part of my mixed media art supplies, especially for anything I create using the Hamburger System.
Recently I discovered Faber Castell re-designed these faves, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer!

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

Before we get too far intotoday's video, I wanna make one thing EXTREMELY clear. The pitt pens I use all the time and are reviewing today are NOT watercolor markers.

They contain pigment, water-based, PERMANENT india ink. They're also not watersoluble, as you'll see in the demo during today's video.

For some reason, the pitt artist pen dual markers reviewed in today's video are NOT showing up on Amazon for purchase. However, you CAN buy them on the Faber Castell website, and may be able to find them in person at your local art store like I did at Jerry's Artarama.

Now, let's chat about WHY Pitt Pens are worth every penny!

Pitt Pens LAST FOREVER :)

I've had my giant set FOR YEARS, and have only needed to occasionally replace my black, white, and skin tone markers because THOSE are the ones I use the most for the whimsical girl art I love to create!!

But the versatility of the NEW dual marker DESIGN is unmatched. I used to have to buy a set of the smaller nib markers PLUS a set of the fat ones. Now you only need ONE SET to achieve the line variation or intricate shading you're after!

When I'm making my whimsical girls "hamburger style," I use Pitt Artist Pens ALL THE TIME in Layer 5 of my Hamburger System for shading the faces I create.

Make sure you click over to watch the video to SEE THIS IS ACTION! It's seriously magical because it makes mixed media face shading SO much EASIER than blending and layering with traditional acrylic paints.

You no longer have to be a master at blending with acrylic paints to add some serious drama to your mixed media portraits. Plus this FUN mixed media technique is easy enough for beginners, as well as those who are timid about adding shading to their work because they're afraid of messing it up (you KNOW who you are!!).

One of the COOLEST things about adding mixed media shading with Faber Castell Pitt Artist Pens is you can even "erase" them with a baby wipe or wet finger if you work quickly!! (shown in today's video)

Not sure what my "Hamburger System" is? Simply click the button below to download a cheatsheet of my signature mixed media layering process.

It's like a tried and true recipe that tells you what supplies to use when during you creative process so you end up with a mixed media masterpiece EVERY time you sit down to create, instead of a mixed media HOT MESS!!

If you've been looking for mixed media help - my hamburger system might just be the answer you've been searching for! It's simple enough for beginners, a FUN mixed media technique for seasoned artists, and easy on your wallet because you can use the same supplies over and over to create TONS of amazing mixed media projects :)

If you prefer working with a physical book at your art table (like me!!), you might also enjoy my Hamburger System book, available on Amazons worldwide.

Wanna Create the Whimsical Girl Featured in Today's Mixed Media Art Tutorial?

She's a lesson inside my Mixed Media Society over at Awesome Art School and is perfect for artists of ALL levels, including beginners.

We're having a blast learning about ALL the mixed media supplies, plus how to combine and layer them to create mixed media art we can be proud of!!

We would LOVE to have YOU join us!!

Wanna Create THIS Mixed Media
Speakeasy Showgirl for FREE?

Tune into the REPLAY of my LIVE Mixed Media Paint Along from a few weeks ago! We had soooo much fun creating this whimsical girl together!! I just know you will too!

Grab the supply list here:
https://awesomeartschool.com/p/speakeasy-special-event

Watch the video and create her from start to finish with me step-by-step, HERE:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjHcI7LIHZM&t=2066s

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How to Add STUNNING Shadows & Highlights to Your Drawings (Realistic Eye Toned Paper Drawing Tutorial)

17/6/2024

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Hey awesome artist!! I'm super excited to share today's new YouTube video with you. I received a REALLY great viewer question about zentangle shading on last week's video (which has OVER 23K views already!!), and thought I'd use today's video to demonstrate my answer, step-by-step.

One of my viewers, Jill, mentioned she was confused about where to add shading and highlights to her drawings when she's not following one of my tutorials. I totally get this, and think a LOT of students can relate!

It's easy to follow along with a step-by-step tutorial. But what if you wanna go rogue and create your own drawings? In today's video, I want to empower you as an artist to do just that!!

I'll show you exactly where and WHY to add shading and highlights in a FUN toned paper drawing tutorial. Let's get started :)

AWESOME Toned Paper EYE Drawing Tutorial with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

To make a flat drawing 3-dimensional, you need line variation, shading, and highlights. To create the illusion of depth for a rounded shape, you need to add shading to both sides of the image, plus some highlights in the middle to make it pop.

Check out the drawing below from last week's video…

How to Create Toned Paper Drawing Highlights & Shadows with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Can you spot where I added a light gray stripe along both sides of the zentangle striped "arm" above? I used gray here to make the edges of the "arm" slightly fade into the background. This technique instantly pops the center of the drawing forward. Adding highlights to the center of this shape accentuated the effect even more, making it appear rounded and three-dimensional. Cool, right?

Even cooler, you can use these techniques on anything you draw to create 3-dimensional drawings.

Let's try it together with an EASY realistic eye drawing.

REALISTIC Eye Drawing on Toned Paper with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

Grab a sheet of paper (toned paper if you've got it!), a pencil (I LOVE my Blackwings!), a black colored pencil, white colored pencil, and a blending stump so you can draw along with me. If you don't have a blending stump- feel free to use a cutip or your finger:)

First, we'll draw the outline of the eye and all of it's parts from the iris to the pupil, and eyelids.

How to Draw a Realistic Eye Shape with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube .png

If you're new to drawing on toned paper, you might enjoy this playlist because it's AMAZING for toned paper beginners and holds your hand through everything from drawing supplies and techniques to how to draw a face on toned paper. There's even a FREE Pdf with references and toned paper shading tips to go with this series!

👉Grab that PDF here.

I don't know about you, but when I'm doing an eye drawing, I tend to reach for my circle template because who wants to spend forever trying to draw a perfect circle? Not me! I'm movin' on!! Give yourself permission to do the same :)

Realistic Eye Drawing Tutorial on Toned Paper with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

Once your eye drawing is complete, it's time to dive right into shading. I find it easiest to blend and move my graphite around using a blending stump (the dirtier, the better!), like this one.

To add shading, simply use the side of your pencil to add a little graphite to both sides of the eyelid. Then "smoosh" it around and slightly in toward the center of the eyelid with your blending stump, finger, or cutip. Make sure to leave the center of your eyelid graphite-free, because is going to become a bright highlight later.

How to Add Eye Drawing Shadows with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube

Next, it's time to darken up our "darkest darks," and start adding highlights. The easiest way to do this on toned paper is to grab your black and white colored pencils. When you shade your drawings with multiple shades of the value scale it helps your work look more sophisticated and realistic. Learn more about using the value scale to shade on toned paper here.

Realistic Eye Drawing Highlights and Shadows on Toned Paper with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

As you can see in the above image, simply adding a little black to the outer edges of our eyelid shape immediately creates dimension. To kick things up a notch, I pulled out a black sharpie to emphasize my shadows even more, followed by my favorite Pentel Pocket Brush (which has actual BRISTLES like a paint brush!) to add eyelashes.

Watch how I use the Pentel Pocket Brush to create gorgeous eyelash drawings every time in this video!

How to Enhance Realistic Eye Drawing Shadows with the Value Scale and Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

To make your eye drawing glisten and truly pop off the paper, I recommend using Copic Opaque White to enhance your highlights. Today I also created a super dramatic highlight in the shape of a door on the iris using my copic white and a paintbrush!

Just look at this drama…

How to Use Copic Opaque White to Enhance Realistic Eye Drawings on Toned Paper with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube.png

So cool, right?! Now if you're drawing along with me (I HOPE YOU ARE!!!), I'd LOVE to see your finished piece. Please feel free to share it in my private Facebook group. If you add the hashtag #karensyoutube to your post, you'll automatically be entered to win in next month's giveaway on the 1st. I LOVE giveaways and do them on the 1st of every month. Enter as many times as you'd like for a chance to win one of my art books, pencil pouches and more!!

I REALLY HOPE today's video helped give you confidence about WHY and WHERE to add shading and highlights to a tubular or rounded object to give it dimension so it pops right off your paper!!

Realistic Eye Drawing on Toned Paper MADE EASY with Karen Campbell Artist.png

Wanna Create MORE Fun Drawing Projects
Like the One Featured in Today's Video?

Amazing!! Check out the Fun Fab Drawing Club with me over at Awesome Art School :) We are having so much FUN drawing together. I've compiled a huge library of online drawing lessons for students of all levels (especially beginners!), and release a new one each month, PLUS do a LIVE draw along with members monthly.

Learn about ALL the additional benefits club members enjoy here :)

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3 EASY Steps to Dramatically Improve Your Zentangles (and ALL of your ART)!

30/5/2024

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Hey art lover!! Today, while browsing Pinterest for new zentangling ideas, I stumbled upon some truly amazing art. After analyzing these pieces, I identified three key elements that made them stand out: Lineweight, Shading, and Highlights.

These THREE techniques are ESSENTIAL to help you create depth, dimension, and a polished look - not only in zentangles, but in ANYTHING you create!

Let's dive into how you can apply all 3 elements so you can elevate your zentangles from simple... to STUNNING!!

How to IMPROVE Your Zentangle Drawings & ANY Art Projects You Create with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

Line Weight

Line weight (or line variation) refers to the thickness or thinness of your lines in a drawing. Varying the line weight in your artwork adds depth and dimension - basically just making it more FUN to look at :)

Thicker lines can be used to emphasize the outline of your subject, while thinner lines can depict finer details and textures. By adjusting the pressure on your pen or pencil, you can create a range of line weights to bring your drawing to life. Even easier - CHANGE out the fineliners or markers you're working with so you incorporate a wide variety of nib sizes! These are my faves by Molotow.

If you don't have a set of fineliners with multiple nib sizes, don't sweat it. You can just darken some areas of your work to make them totally black like I did behind my tiny half moon shapes in the center of this drawing...

For more ideas- watch today's video!!

Shading

Adding shading to your drawings IMMEDIATELY add sophistication to your projects. If you've never done shading before, check out today's video because I actually show you with my phone light how shadows can naturally appear on my paper.

You always want to imagine a light source shining on your drawing from ONE direction. For whatever reason, I tend to imagine my light source for most of my drawings is in the upper left corner. Then I simply shade off to the right of my lines to add realistic looking shadows.In today's project, I used two gray copic markers in light and medium to add shading.

Highlights

For me, highlights are the most crucial part of any drawing or painting. To add the highlights shown below, I used my white Prismacolor pencil on its side to create a soft, "glowy" effect. Watch how I did it HERE.

Since I'm a fan of super BOLD highlights, I reached for my Copic opaque white to take my highlights to the next level. This adds INSTANT drama and makes the drawing REALLY pop, right?!

How to Add Copic Opaque White to Zentangle Drawings & Other Art Projects with Karen Campbell Artist

Enjoyed Today's Video?
Share it With a Friend!

If you LOVED today's video, SHARE IT WITH A FRIEND!

It's SO easy!!

Either copy and paste this exact video link here:
https://youtu.be/hpvejDMv5W0?si=9yoxFdKuhgcEbhxA

Or if you're on your phone watching on YouTube,
hopefully this will help :)

Wanna Create MORE Fun Drawing Projects
Like the One Featured in Today's Video?

Check out the Fun Fab Drawing Club over at Awesome Art School!!

It's perfect for artists of ALL levels including beginners. We're having SO much FUN over there and would LOVE to have YOU join us!!

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Discover the MAGIC of the Black Stabilo All Pencil for YOUR Mixed Media Art Projects!

21/5/2024

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As an artist who thrives on the versatility and spontaneity of mixed media, I've come to rely heavily on a few key mixed media art supplies that consistently deliver fantastic results, like the black Stabilo All Pencil. The stabilo holds a special place in my heart and my studio for at least a million reasons, and has been a game-changer as I've developed my own personal artistic style.

*All product links are affiliate & for U.S. residents only.*

Unmatched Water Solubility

One of the standout features of the black Stabilo All pencil is its incredible water solubility. This pencil is designed to work on virtually any surface—paper, glass, plastic, and even metal—which makes it perfect for the unpredictable and varied nature of mixed media art!

When you add water, the graphite and pigment dissolve beautifully, transforming into rich, inky washes that can be manipulated just like watercolor! This property is something I leverage constantly in my work, allowing for fluid transitions and deep, expressive shading that would be hard to achieve with traditional graphite pencils.

How to Use the Black Stabilo All Pencil in Mixed Media Art Projects and Portraits with Karen Campbell Artist

Perfect for the Hamburger System

The stabilo all pencil is also PERFECT for my signature mixed media process, The Hamburger System. If you're new to my world, this is my tried-and-true "recipe" for layering mixed media art supplies to create a masterpiece, instead of a HOT MESS! Grab a copy of it HERE, or click the button below to download a PDF of my Hamburger cheatsheet for your own art table!

Then, CLICK HERE to learn the steps of my Hamburger System for FREE on YouTube. I've found the stabilo works beautifully during multiple stages of the Hamburger. Whether I'm sketching the initial outline or adding intricate details on top of layers of gesso, acrylics, or collage, the Stabilo's water solubility melts my drawings into paintings, adds rich depth, and sophistication!!

Love this modern version of "Girl with a Pearl Earring?" Me too!!
Do it step-by-step with me HERE on YouTube for free!

Rich Pigmentation

One of the primary reasons I adore my stabilo is its rich, jet-black pigmentation. This pencil doesn't just draw lines; it lays down a deep, velvety black that can stand out against even the busiest of backgrounds. When activated with water, the pigment remains intense, which is crucial for maintaining contrast and focal points in my work. This richness in pigment is something I’ve yet to find replicated in ANY OTHER water-soluble pencil. And believe me, I've tested a TON of them! Just LOOK at the top row below - THAT's the stabilo once activated with a little water. Amazing right?! It doesn't turn cloudy and gray like most black watersoluble pencils do once they're activated.

How to activate a black stabilo all pencil with water and Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube

Flexibility and Control

The flexibility of the Stabilo All is unparalleled. I can use it dry for crisp, DARK lines (bottom LEFT), or wet for softer, more painterly effects (bottom RIGHT). This dual functionality means I don't have to switch tools mid-project, streamlining my process and keeping me in the creative flow.

How to Use the Black Stabilo All Pencil DRY or WET for Mixed Media Portraits with Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube

Lots of my students AVOID playing with the stabilo because they fear losing control of their lines once it's been activated with water. But this SAME EFFECT gives me the feeling of MORE CONTROL.

I believe Stabilo "mistakes" can be EASILY corrected by adding a bit more water to blend and soften the lines. Alternatively, you can let the area dry and then go over it, creating NEW lines until you're satisfied with your piece. In mixed media drawing and painting, persistence is KEY. Sometimes all you need to do is KEEP GOING. Allow any bothersome areas to dry, then add another layer :) It's all good!!

Whimsical Girl in Black Stabilo All Pencil over Napkin Collage by Karen Campbell Artist on YouTube

Watch the creation of this Whimsical Girl in Stabilo Over Napkin Collage HERE on YouTube!

Personal Connection

On a more personal note, the black Stabilo All pencil has been with me through countless projects. It’s the tool I reach for instinctively, knowing it will perform flawlessly whether I'm teaching a class, filming a tutorial, or creating a piece for myself. This reliability has fostered a sense of confidence and freedom in my art, allowing me to push boundaries and experiment WITHOUT FEAR.

For me, the black Stabilo All is more than just a tool; it's been an integral part of my creative journey. Its water solubility, rich pigmentation, and versatility make it a staple in my mixed media arsenal. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a go.

It might just help you uncover masterpieces you never knew were within you, just waiting to be set free!

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All About My Awesome Pouch

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MORE Essential Supplies for Scotland

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​Final Thoughts

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Why I Created Face Drawing Cheat Sheets​

How to Draw a Whimsical Face Step by Step

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Why I Love Alcohol Markers

Authentic Recommendation

Swatching: A Necessary Step

GRAB MY FREE SWATCH SHEET!

Organization Tips

The Importance of Paper

Getting to Know Your Markers

Organizing Your Markers

Preparing for a Project

Choosing Colors with Low Contrast

Working Quickly

Directional Brush Strokes

Alcohol Markers and Mixed Media

Love the Project Above?

My Verdict on Ohuhu Markers

Get the Most Out of Your Ohuhu Markers

Final Thoughts

Additional Resources

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn in today’s video:​

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Wanna Create Whimsical Girl Art Like the Canvas Featured in Today's Mixed Media Art Tutorial?

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Wanna Create the Whimsical Girl Featured in Today's Mixed Media Art Tutorial?

Wanna Create THIS Mixed Media Speakeasy Showgirl for FREE?

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​Wanna Create MORE Fun Drawing Projects​ Like the One Featured in Today's Video?

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Line Weight

Shading

Highlights

Enjoyed Today's Video? Share it With a Friend!

Wanna Create MORE Fun Drawing Projects Like the One Featured in Today's Video?

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Unmatched Water Solubility

Perfect for the Hamburger System

Rich Pigmentation

Flexibility and Control

Personal Connection

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Karen Campbell

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Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn in today’s video:

Love the Alcohol Marker Drawings
Featured in Today's Video?

Wanna Create Whimsical Girl Art Like the Canvas
Featured in Today's Mixed Media Art Tutorial?

Wanna Create THIS Mixed Media
Speakeasy Showgirl for FREE?

Wanna Create MORE Fun Drawing Projects
Like the One Featured in Today's Video?

Enjoyed Today's Video?
Share it With a Friend!

Wanna Create MORE Fun Drawing Projects
Like the One Featured in Today's Video?

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