Colouring in a cartoon styleMarshall Hat For the hat, bear in mind the circular nature of its form (Fig.14a). Again, I use the radial gradient tool for this. Let’s take a closer look at how I paint with selection and airbrush tools (Fig.14b and c). Typically, I would use motion blur to gently smooth out the edges. For this piece however, I want to keep a fresh and fast feel. For this, I gently but firmly apply the airbrush from one side and fade-off gently. Avoid hard edges.
Check point Look at what this looks like without the outline (Fig.15). This demonstrates how good your painting is if it looks 3D without the black line.
Face Select the gradient tool (Fig.16a) and apply (Fig.16b). Again, I work to the form of the object. Now work on the selections for darker areas (Fig.16c) and selections for lighter areas (Fig.16d). Fig.16e shows the two-tone linear gradient for the eyewear, reflecting the shade from the hat. Remember: I do separate elements on different layers (Fig.16f). Multiply this layer and add highlights (Fig.16g). Something I learnt whilst working for 2000AD, while painting reflections, was the use of refracted light across the various layers of glass. It’s a real neat trick that’s simple but effective. Remember to follow the form and material of the object (Fig.16h). Again, I duplicate one of my highlight layers and motion blurs, which adds a little extra convincing feel.
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issue 012 December 2006