Mastering Fur Tones: Black, Orange, and Everything in Between

Tackling the Challenge of Orange and Black Fur 

This week I wanted to share a colour recipe that sometimes gets people into a bit of a panic - orange and black! 

Of course when we use orange with black the worry is it will turn green, so I thought I’d give you some pointers to help you so you don't need to worry about a thing! This is something many artists find challenging. When black mixes with orange, it often risks turning green, so a careful approach to layering and colour selection is key. 

Building the Base Layers 

To tackle the head's rich tones, I began with a base of Polychromos Terracotta, layering it lightly to establish the foundation. From there, I brought in Caput Mortuum Violet and Luminance Dark Flesh, which adds depth and subtle shading without overwhelming vibrancy. For the black areas, I used Derwent Drawing Ivory Black, a wonderfully opaque and soft pencil that requires minimal pressure, making it perfect for smooth coverage. Occasionally, I added touches of Cinnamon or Burnt Sienna, being mindful of their slight green undertones. 

Avoiding Colour Pitfalls 

To avoid muddy greens, I steer clear of blues for shadows on orange fur. Instead, I opt for purples or greens—split complementary colours on the wheel—that provide depth without risking an unwanted shift. For highlights, I layered light strokes of colour while maintaining the fur's natural direction, which is crucial for realism. 

Tools and Techniques for Realism 

This project reminded me how coloured pencils, though deceptively simple, require finesse. Tools like my trusty Swordfish Multipoint Sharpener ensure a consistently sharp pencil for precision. Maintaining light pressure allows for even layering, while observing fur direction ensures a lifelike curve and flow. 

Make sure to watch the video above if you want to see this in more detail! This Tutorial is included in the Ignite Membership where I share more in-depth guidance. You can join my waitlist below :)