Introduction: How to Draw a Neon Glow Effect
Every now and then I find myself in need of a sign...
And by that I mean a paper sign (or poster, if you will) to hang on the wall or front door on the occasion of someone's birthday, or when my husband comes back from a business trip. As one can imagine, due to the frequent occurrence of such events, it's been harder and harder to find bright ideas, and my "welcome back" signs have gotten more and more dull.
But not anymore! This easy technique will make your drawings glow!
Supplies
- black paper or cardstock
- #2 pencil
- acrylic markers (white + basic colors)
- colored pencils
Step 1: Sketch
Sketch your design or text on the black sheet.
Step 2: Outline
Trace over the lines with a (3mm tip) paint marker.
Step 3: Make It Glow
Using a matching color pencil, add a soft spread contour on both sides of your line (like an outer glow). Don't worry about it being perfect - my son actually helped with this step, so if he can do it, you can do it too.
Step 4: Highlight
Re-trace the lines with a fine tip white marker, to add a highlight.
Step 5: Shed a Light on Your DIYs
Go ahead and apply this technique to your greeting cards, posters, notebook covers...
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6 Comments
8 weeks ago
Simple but brilliant! I would have never thought of that and I color in a lot with paint, paint markers, gel pens, felt pens, permanent markers, color pencils and even a crayon now and then. This is going to seriously up my game! Thanks for sharing!
Reply 7 weeks ago
Thank you!
7 weeks ago
Brilliant! And so do-able! For those w digital media - you can do the same thing with line thicknesses, color, gradation / opacity!
Reply 7 weeks ago
Thank you for your nice comment and support! :)
8 weeks ago
Yes! The effect is so substantial and effective, thank you for sharing! I love the efficiency and simplicity that create the final visual cues of glowing neon. And that white highlighter step to take it home.... *chef's kiss*
Well done Brana
Reply 8 weeks ago
Your comment made me beam 😁 Thanks!
(Nice username, by the way - A mí también me gusta cantar)