Ink Frog

Highlights and hot spots- developing a range of highlights for realism

Join Amy Shulke, a professional illustrator and marker enthusiast for a fun and informative coloring lesson- Vanilla Arts style!

Marker Painting is a completely different approach to coloring with markers. Amy teaches students basic techniques and color theory based on the way artists use paint. Instead of focusing on "how" to color a selected stamp image, Amy shows you the "why" behind color selection, shade, layering, depth, and form. This provides students with the necessary knowledge to color any stamp image in their collection and every stamp they might purchase in the future.


Ink Frog Requires confident Copic and colored pencil skills. Basic blending techniques are not covered in this class.


Skill Level: Intermediate level

This class originally ran as a Live Broadcast here at Teachable. It was filmed live and unscripted. This is a different style of presentation than the normal Marker Painting Workshops. Amy speaks live and off-the-cuff, so this is more conversational and less formal.

Includes a lesson discussion at the opening of the class and ends with a Q&A session for those attending the original broadcast.

If you are unable to join us live, join us later! Demonstration videos are available after the broadcast-- work at your own pace, enjoy forever access and revisit the project again and again. Instruction includes all elements, the cast shadowing, underpainting base markering, and pencil details to create depth and dimension.

Techniques used:

  • Flicking
  • Push & Pull
  • Underpainting
  • Color Transitions
  • Pointillism
  • Detail work with colored pencils

Course includes:

  • Live Broadcast (or recording) with Q&A session for those students who attend the broadcast.
  • Recording available to watch later if are unable to attend the Live Broadcast. Work at your own pace and enjoy forever access.
  • Digital stamp in three handy formats (PNG, JPG, or quick print PDF)
  • Recipe guide
  • Printable photo reference, underpainting guide, detailed color map, marker-only sample and full color sample

Required Supplies: printable supply list included in class package

  • high-quality Copic friendly marker cardstock (X-Press It Blending Card is highly recommended.)
  • Copic Markers
  • Artist quality colored pencils (Prismacolor Premier recommended)
  • technical pen (Staedtler Triplus Fineliner recommended)
  • Mod Podge brush or Hake dusting brush.
  • Clipboard or hard surface (glass mat is recommended)
  • Drafting tape.
  • Pencil, pencil sharpener
  • Drafting tape.
  • Erasers - black and white polymer, white sticky tack, Tombow Mono Zero.

Your Instructor


Amy Shulke
Amy Shulke

Amy is a professional freelance technical illustrator with 25 years of experience in graphic arts. Amy began using colored pencils in 1985 and she started with DeSign markers in 1989. Colored pencils with a base of either marker or watercolor is her preferred process for portraiture and scientific illustration. She has a special passion for teaching crafters and shy artists to stretch their boundaries by adding established fine art techniques to their coloring projects.

Join Amy for fun and highly informative lessons which will not only change the way you color but the way you see color in the world around you.


Course Curriculum


  General Supply Info
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days after you enroll
  The Printables
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  Extra Resources
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"It's the OMG moments. That's why Amy's classes rock. She explains things that you've maybe noticed before but never thought much about. I love it!"

"At 62 years of age I have no illusions about becoming a great artist but. I am so appreciative of the change in my perception since taking classes with Amy at Vanilla Arts Co. Now I see the play of colors, the motion and the grace... It's a great way to view the world around me."

"I just love the things I'm learning and can't wait to start the next project. Your images are challenging for me and I like that. I'll never look at another image and how to color it the same again!"

"I warn people when they sign up for your classes-- it's not just Copic, it's sooooooooo much more."

"Thank you, Amy for your generous nature. There are many gifted people in the world but you share your gifts so freely. Your classes are wonderful and I sincerely hope that the new online project allows more and more students to fall in love with your classes."

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
Immediately! As soon as you're through the registration and payment processes, the class material will be automatically opened for you.
How much of the course will I have access to? Do you stagger the release of information?
This course is 100% FULL ACCESS from the moment you join. Work at your own pace and take as much time as you want to complete the lesson.
How long do I have access to the course?
Lifetime access! You have unlimited access to the content for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What skill level does this class require?
This is a challenge level project aimed at intermediate students. You need to be competent at blending and other basic Copic skills. You also need to be comfortable using colored pencils at several pressure levels. For more information email [email protected]
Is the digital stamp included or do I have to purchase it elsewhere?
The digital stamp is included in the class materials. No new purchase necessary.
What if I'm missing markers or supplies from the required list?
I'm very liberal about supply substitutions BUT please understand that not all markers and pencils behave the same way, even if the colors are very similar. Every substitution you make will change the look of your finished project and the more substitutions you make, the harder your project will be to complete. If you are missing a color and want advice on alternatives, email [email protected].
What if I use a different brand of marker?
I'll be honest, I use Copic because of their brush nib. I've yet to find another maker brand with nibs as springy and juicy. I would suggest that some of my techniques are unlikely to work well without a brush nib... but if you've got other markers and are willing to match my colors to your brand, GO FOR IT. Sorry, but I won't be much help troubleshooting any problems you encounter because I won't be able to test your blends myself.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact me in the first 14 days for a full refund minus processing fees. Due to the digital nature of this course, absolutely no refunds are possible beyond the 14 day mark. NO EXCEPTIONS. Note: A refund withdraws you completely from the course. You will lose access to the course panel, course materials, and any associated forum or group.

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