When you think of a standard colored pencil set, the 12-color set often comes to mind. It’s easy to use, accessible, and great for beginners.
But did you know that with a little technique, you can create rich, vibrant, and layered colors—even with only 12 pencils?
In this article, we’ll explore how to blend and layer colors effectively, using a basic 12-color pencil set. Let’s dive into color combinations that bring depth to your coloring and where to use them for the best effect!
Red / Blue / Yellow / Green / Orange / Purple / Brown / Black / White / Pink / Light Green / Light Blue
(Colors may vary slightly depending on the brand.)
Orange + Brown = Warm Sunset Hue
Adds warmth and natural richness—ideal for organic scenes.
Sunsets, autumn leaves, brick walls, animal fur (like foxes)
Blue + Black = Deep Navy Blue
Creates depth and mood; perfect for dramatic lighting or contrast.
Night skies, ocean depths, shadows
Red + Blue = Deep Purple / Wine Color
Evokes emotion and elegance. Adjust the ratio for different tones.
Fabric shadows, rose petals, fantasy-themed backgrounds
Yellow + Blue = Natural Green Tones
More realistic than using green alone. Use yellow-heavy or blue-heavy blends for variety.
Grass, forest foliage, moss
Pink + Purple = Soft Lavender
Adds a gentle, romantic tone. Great for calm, ethereal atmospheres.
Flowers, dusk skies, dreamy scenes
Brown + Black = Rich Dark Brown
Gives a vintage or earthy feel with added weight and texture.
Wooden textures, antique objects, animal fur, soil
Yellow + Pink = Warm Skin Tone / Salmon Pink
Light and friendly tone, perfect for portraits and soft light areas.
Cheeks, skin highlights, sunrise
Green + Blue = Cool Turquoise
Refreshing, clean feel—great for reflective or sci-fi elements.
Water, glass, futuristic backgrounds
Tips for Layering Colors Effectively
- Start light
Use a gentle hand when applying the first color as a base. - Layer gradually
Add the second color over the base. Blend gently and adjust the pressure to control which color dominates. - Use a third color if needed
Black, white, or brown can help fine-tune the tone or add shading.
12 Colors, Endless Possibilities
Even with just 12 colored pencils, the color combinations you can create are practically endless.
Blending allows you to go far beyond the basic set—sometimes tripling your palette.
Experiment, play, and express yourself.
With some layering and creativity, you’ll unlock a whole new world of color in your artwork.
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