Photoshop Tutorial #4: Coloring Line Art

[phidelt649]

In this tutorial, we will learn a simple way of coloring line art. This method is for beginners and shouldn't be considered the end-all-be-all of coloring, but it is effective and produces really cool results. Let's get started.

I Google'd "Line Art" and selected an image I felt suited the Huddle:



Set your image layer as the top layer and rename is Line Art. Then set the Blending Mode to Multiply:



Create a new layer and position it under Line Art. Make sure the Blending Mode for this layer is set to Normal. Rename this layer Flesh. You'll want to keep each section on of your recolor on its own separate layer (Jacket, Hair, et. al.). My layer shows a Color Overlay applied, you don't need to worry about this yet. Choose any brush color and select a Soft Brush (I chose a 7 pixel weight, but it depends on your image).



Next, you're going to begin to color whatever section you've decided to start with. I always begin with the largest and work my way up to the smallest. As stated above, each time you start a new section, create a new layer. After a little painting, you'll begin to see something like this:



Back to that Color Overlay I mentioned earlier: This comes in handy when you're trying to figure out what colors to use. For instance, maybe you decided you'd rather have your character wear a red jacket. Just right click on your jacket layer and then select Blending Options > Color Overlay and pick any color you want.

When you are finished coloring, save your image. Now click your topmost color layer and Shift+Click your last color layer. Press Ctrl+Shift+E to merge these layer. Grab your Burn tool, set it to Midtones / Opacity 20% and begin to lightly paint over areas that should have shadows. (ie, the creases in the jacket, area around the thighs, etc.)



When you are finished, you should have something that resembles this:




Note: I know this isn't my best tutorial, but I've been really busy and wanted to get something up here. If there is anything confusing about this tutorial, please don't hesitate to ask questions. And don't forget to post your results!!