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Rules Getting Children & Students Started Jumpstarting the Writing & Illustrating Process Inventive Illustrations Frequently Asked Questions Contest Entry Checklist Entry Packet

Inventive Illustrations

Crayons, markers, chalk and paint provide an infinite number of creative possibilities in the hands of children, and we encourage you to use them. In addition to the old stand-bys, here are a few ideas for illustrating techniques that may be new for your child.

Mixed Media
Children could try mixing pen, marker, paint, paper, layering, etc., together in creative ways. For example, a painted illustration could be enhanced with pen or marker touches; a layered paper drawing could have painted figures.

Fill the Pages
Encourage your child to fill the page. If his/her figures are small and occupy only a corner, recommend drawing them again bigger, like a TV "close-up."

Make Sponge Prints
Cut sponges into shapes. Dip in paint; press evenly on paper.

Make Potato Prints
Cut a large potato in half, then carve patterns on the wet, flat surface. Dip in paint; press evenly on paper.

Layering
Cut out or tear shapes in various colors and textures of paper or other materials. Layer these to create feeling and contrast.

Make Eraser Prints
Carve patterns on the broad, flat surface of a large eraser. Dip in paint and press evenly on paper.

Contrast
Advise children to choose colors that contrast; this creates emphasis and vividness.

Multiple Subjects
Suggest your child put more than one object in a picture. It's not always needed, but it can give a feeling of proportion and space.

Rules Getting Children & Students Started Jumpstarting the Writing & Illustrating Process Inventive Illustrations Frequently Asked Questions Contest Entry Checklist Entry Packet

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