Sleigh Bell

Hard & Soft Reflections

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.

Take your coloring to the next level-- coloring with independence, creativity, and your own unique voice.

 

Most colorers think of metals and metallics as a coloring technique.


This leads to very stylized rather than photorealistic metal objects.

Stop limiting yourself with a step by step approach to metals.

Amy helps you explore the world of high shine objects pointing out the important landmarks and characteristics that will make your metal objects amazingly real.


Sleigh Bell addresses edges and contrast as well as environment, reflection, and refraction-- helping you to color any shiny object, not just Christmas bells.

Sleigh Bell is an advance coloring demonstration.


We welcome colorers of many levels into this class, however, basic techniques are not covered. Advanced classes assume you’ve mastered basic techniques and now you’re ready for more independent work and artistic skills. Advanced classes inspire you to become more independent in your coloring, we also like to throw a few challenges at you to prepare for independent coloring.



Skill Level: Advanced

Techniques Used:

  • Flicking
  • Push & Pull
  • Shiny metal
  • High shine objects
  • Hard and soft reflections
  • Using photo references
  • Detail work with colored pencils

Course Includes:

  • Over 2 1/2 hours of video demonstration with Q&A timeouts. Work at your own pace.
  • Recipe guide
  • Printable photo reference, underpainting guide, detailed color map, and full color sample
 

Required Supplies: complete printable supply list included in class package

  • High-quality Copic friendly marker cardstock (Cryogen Curious Metallic is recommended for this project)
  • Copic Markers
  • Artist quality colored pencils (Derwent Lightfast used for this project - Prismacolor pencil substitutions provided when available)
  • Glassine paper
  • Mod Podge brush or Hake dusting brush.
  • Clipboard or hard surface (glass mat is recommended)
  • Drafting tape.
  • Pencil, pencil sharpener.
  • Erasers - black and white polymer, white sticky tack, Tombow Mono Zero (round).
 

We recommend these Workshops as a companions to Sleigh Bell:

(this class is an Intermediate skilled class)



(this class is an Intermediate skilled class)



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
Available in days
days after you enroll
  The Printables
Available in days
days after you enroll
  The Demonstration Videos
Available in days
days after you enroll

"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!"

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.
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?
I would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact me in the first 30 days and I will give you a full refund.