{"id":38346,"date":"2022-03-26T14:13:25","date_gmt":"2022-03-26T14:13:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/?page_id=38346"},"modified":"2026-04-03T17:12:38","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T17:12:38","slug":"pencils-on-polyester-a-different-way-to-colored-pencil","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/pencils-on-polyester-a-different-way-to-colored-pencil","title":{"rendered":"Pencils on Polyester &#8211; A Different Way to Colored Pencil"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"coursetitlecontainer\">\n<div class=\"coursetitle\">\n<h1>Pencils on Polyester<\/h1>\n<div class=\"subtitle\">A different way to colored pencil<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"coursetitledes\"><span>COURSE<\/span><i class=\"far fa-chart-bar\" style=\"margin-left:10px; margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Intermediate<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"insertbackground\">\n<div class=\"removep\">\n<div class=\"videoflexwrapper\">\n<div class=\"videotop\">\n  <iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/693569983?h=d911f27ae5\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sidebartop\">\n<div class=\"vertalign\">\n<div class=\"logoimage\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/logosmall75.png\"><\/div>\n<p>\n    <div class=\"sidebarcarddescriptiondark\">\n<span>JOIN THE VIRTUAL INSTRUCTOR<\/span><br>\n    Get ALL of our courses, ebooks, live lessons, critiques, lesson plans and more today.\n<\/div>\n    <\/p>\n<div class=\"sidebarbuttonholder\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sidebuttonsmem\">START FREE TRIAL<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"separator\" style=\"margin-top:1.5em;\">or<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/register-pencils-on-polyester\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sidebuttons\">BUY COURSE $37<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperkscontainer\">\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><span>This course features:<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><i class=\"far fa-clock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Over 1.5 Hours of Instruction<\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><i class=\"fas fa-film\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>7 Videos<\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><i class=\"fas fa-book\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>1 eBooks<\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><i class=\"fas fa-shield-alt\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/i>30 Day Money Back Guarantee<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p>\n\n<div class=\"contentfix\">\n<div class=\"favorites\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"tabs\">\n<input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-1\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-1\" class=\"label\">Lessons <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:2px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Course Curriculum<\/h2>\n\n<\/p>\n<p><div class=\"curriculumcontainer\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 1: Introduction and Materials (7:19)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 2: Drawing with a Grid (8:48)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 3: Applying Colored Pencils (15:11)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 4: Developing Texture and Depth (15:51)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 5: The Eyes Have It (15:53)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 6: A Furry Face (14:03)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 7: Hairy Legs (15:45)<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<p>  <input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-2\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-2\" class=\"label\">Description <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:3px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Course Description<\/h2>\n<p>\nThe <em>Pencils on Polyester: A Different Way to Colored Pencil<\/em> course is an innovative and comprehensive exploration of using colored pencils on polyester film to create vibrant, detailed artwork. In this course, students learn how to adapt traditional colored pencil techniques to a non-porous surface while creating a stunning drawing of a colorful spider. The experience challenges artists to rethink how they apply and layer pigment, offering unique results that differ from traditional paper surfaces.\n<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/spider-colored-pencils-fin.jpg\" alt=\"colored pencil drawing of a spider on polyester film\"><\/p>\n<h2>Introduction to Polyester Film as a Surface<\/h2>\n<p>\nThe course begins by introducing polyester film as an alternative drawing surface. Unlike conventional paper, polyester is smooth and non-absorbent, which requires a different approach to layering and burnishing colored pencil pigment. Students learn why polyester film is ideal for achieving exceptionally bright color, sharp detail, and luminous highlights. The lesson explains how the surface interacts with pencil pigment and why this medium combination can elevate colored pencil artwork to a new level.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Materials and Preparatory Techniques<\/h2>\n<p>\nBefore beginning the artwork, the course covers the materials needed and how to prepare them. Students explore the types of colored pencils that work best on polyester film, how to secure the film to a stable drawing surface, and techniques for achieving consistent application without damaging the film. This introduction ensures that artists feel confident in handling the unique demands of this medium.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Sketching the Spider Design<\/h2>\n<p>\nThe creative process begins with sketching the basic outline of the spider. Students learn how to translate the subject\u2019s proportion and form onto polyester film, maintaining accuracy and clarity in the initial drawing. Special emphasis is placed on establishing a strong composition, as the clarity of pencil lines on film makes early choices especially important.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Layering and Building Color<\/h2>\n<p>\nOnce the outline is established, students begin layering colored pencils to build rich, vibrant color. Because polyester film does not absorb pigment in the same way paper does, the lesson demonstrates how to gradually develop color depth through careful layering, blending, and burnishing. Artists learn techniques that allow colors to remain luminous and intense, taking full advantage of the film\u2019s smooth surface.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Refining Detail and Enhancing Texture<\/h2>\n<p>\nAs the piece progresses, focus shifts to refining the spider\u2019s details and creating texture across its body and legs. Students learn how to capture subtle shifts in color and tone, highlight reflections, and suggest surface texture that makes the image feel lifelike. The instructor provides guidance on achieving contrast and sharpness that truly let the subject stand out.\n<\/p>\n<h2>A Unique Colored Pencil Experience<\/h2>\n<p>\nBy the end of the <em>Pencils on Polyester<\/em> course, students will have completed a bold, colorful spider drawing that showcases the unique potential of colored pencils on polyester film. This course expands artistic techniques and highlights how experimenting with different surfaces can produce striking and memorable artwork.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Specific Lessons<\/h2>\n<h3>Lesson 1 - Introduction and Materials (7:19)<\/h3>\n<p>In this lesson, we look at the unique characteristics of polyester film and compare it to traditional drawing surfaces. We also cover the materials used to create the colored pencil drawing to follow.<\/p>\n<h3>Lesson 2 - Drawing with a Grid (8:48)<\/h3>\n<p>In this lesson, we develop the pencil underdrawing using the grid technique.<\/p>\n<h3>Lesson 3: Applying Colored Pencils (15:11)<\/h3>\n<p>In this lesson, we begin with colored pencil applications gradually layering light applications of color.<\/p>\n<h3>Lesson 4: Developing Texture and Depth (15:51)<\/h3>\n<p>Colored pencil applications continue along the upper portion of the picture plane.<\/p>\n<h3>Lesson 5: The Eyes Have It (15:53)<\/h3>\n<p>In this lesson, we complete the eyes of the spider.<\/p>\n<h3>Lesson 6: A Furry Face (14:03)<\/h3>\n<p>In this lesson, we work across the middle of the picture plane addressing the overlapping hairs of the spider.<\/p>\n<h3>Lesson 7: Hairy Legs (15:45)<\/h3>\n<p>In this lesson, we complete the drawing by developing the complex hairy legs of the spider.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>  <input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-3\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-3\" class=\"label\">Materials <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:2px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Lesson Materials<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Polyester Film<\/li>\n<li>Paper for Underlayment<\/li>\n<li>Graphite Pencil<\/li>\n<li>Eraser<\/li>\n<li>Ruler<\/li>\n<li>Drafting Brush (optional)<\/li>\n<li>Colored Pencils<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>  <input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-4\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-4\" class=\"label\">Resources <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:2px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Lesson Resources<\/h2>\n<h4>References<\/h4>\n\n<p><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Photo Reference<\/p>\n<p><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Gridded Photo Reference<\/p>\n<p><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Finished Drawing<\/p>\n<p><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Download eBook<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sidebarbottom\">\n<div class=\"relatedcourse\">Your Instructor<\/div>\n<div class=\"instructor\">\n<div class=\"instructorimage\">\n<div class=\"instructorpic\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/images\/mattauthor.jpg\" alt=\"Matt Fussell - Instructor\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"instructorname\">Matt Fussell<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"instructordes\">\n<p>Founder of The Virtual Instructor, artist and teacher. Matt makes learning art easy to understand and enjoyable.<\/p>\n<p><div style=\"padding-top:10px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/blog\/author\/admin\">Learn more about Matt<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relatedcoursescontainer\">\n<div class=\"relatedcourse\">Related Courses and Classes<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/colored-pencils-plus\" class=\"sidebarbottom-curriculum\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"leftlean\"><i class=\"far fa-play-circle\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Colored Pencils PLUS<\/div>\n<div class=\"rightlean\" style=\"background-image: url('https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Colored-Pencils-Plus-Course.jpg');\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/the-colored-pencil-course\" class=\"sidebarbottom-curriculum\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"leftlean\"><i class=\"far fa-play-circle\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>The Colored Pencil Course<\/div>\n<div class=\"rightlean\" style=\"background-image: url('https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Colored-Pencil-Course.jpg');\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/3-little-birds-with-colored-pencils\" class=\"sidebarbottom-curriculum\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"leftlean\"><i class=\"far fa-play-circle\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>3 Little Birds with Colored Pencils<\/div>\n<div class=\"rightlean\" style=\"background-image: url('https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/3-little-birds-with-colored-pencils-course.jpg');\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><script>\nfunction myFunction(x) {\n  if (x.matches) { \/\/ If media query matches\n    radiobtn = 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Polyester A different way to colored pencil COURSEIntermediate Lessons Course Curriculum Description Course Description The Pencils on Polyester: A Different Way to Colored Pencil course is an innovative and comprehensive exploration of using colored pencils on polyester film to create vibrant, detailed artwork. In this course, students learn how to adapt traditional colored [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"paget-iframe.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-38346","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/38346","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=38346"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/38346\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46180,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/38346\/revisions\/46180"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38346"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=38346"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}