Most people, when shading something, instinctively just add black or gray to darken a color. But there’s a much more vibrant and interesting way: using complementary colors for shading!
Instead of mixing black into a color (which can sometimes make it look dull or muddy), you can shade by adding a bit of its complementary color. For example, if you’re painting a bright yellow lemon, instead of reaching for black to create shadows, you could mix a little purple into your yellow. The result? A deeper, richer shadow that still feels colorful and alive.
“The key is blending gently.”
This trick works because complementary colors naturally tone each other down without making the color look lifeless. It also keeps your artwork looking more dynamic and natural, especially since shadows in real life often have subtle color shifts rather than being just plain gray.
Here’s a quick tip: the key is blending gently. You usually don’t want a harsh clash between the two complements — just a subtle shift that deepens the color. Start by adding tiny amounts of the complementary color and adjust until you get the shade you want.
Complementary shading is especially popular in painting, but it also works great in colored pencil work, pastels, or digital art. It’s one of those small techniques that can make your colors feel more professional and full of life.
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever shaded without it!
