1 - Using coloured mount board

Example: Jersey Lily

I usually start a piece of work by sketching or tracing onto tracing paper. In this case, I was using a photograph and was able to trace part of the design directly from the photograph. When I am satisfied with the drawing, I take a soft white pastel and rub over the back of the tracing paper, using my fingers to spread the pastel thoroughly. Next, I secure the paper (chalky side down) onto the mount board and draw round the outlines with a sharp pencil. I remember to check that the image is transferring OK before removing the tracing. Finally, I use gouache to fill in the detail, mixing my colours with white to give plenty of “body”. I use a bit more pastel applied with my fingers to add interest to the background.