Children's books without illustrations are somewhat boring. Here the role of the illustrator comes into play. If you want to get closer to this type of activity, our guide will be able to help you.
Steps
Step 1. Try drawing sketches and miniatures based on the narrative
Step 2. Make some study sketches of the characters to get an idea
It will be helpful to use them as a reference when developing the story.
Step 3. Resize the sketches to the target format and add any details you want to include in the illustration
Step 4. Turn the paper over and scrub the back with charcoal
Step 5. Go back to the sketch and place the sheet on a watercolor paper
Secure it with duct tape e draw the main lines of your drawing.
Step 6. Look at the "carbon copy" of the lines on the watercolor paper
Step 7. Erase the charcoal residue on the watercolor paper with eraser and lighten the lines as much as possible
Step 8. Do a color test before starting to paint, to decide which colors to use for your characters
Step 9. Try to choose bright and cheerful colors, as children love these kinds of colors
A good idea is to characterize the characters as cartoons rather than being inspired by reality.
Step 10. Trace the outlines with a pen to better define the details
Well, your illustration is complete !!!
Advice
- Make miniatures for studying the poses and composing the overall image.
- Take your time - don't rush.
- If you work for an author or publisher, consider their ideas about the characters.
- Do not scale too hard - the stretch must always be light at the beginning, to be repeated and accentuated later.
- If you work for an author or publisher, try to propose alternatives so that they can choose the most congenial solution (it can be a positive input for the design).
