How to Color a Lightning Sky

Creating a lightning sky effect in your coloring projects adds drama and intensity to your artwork. In this tutorial, we'll use a page from the "Spooky Summer" coloring book by Southern Lotus Coloring Book to demonstrate effective techniques for coloring a stormy sky illuminated by lightning. By following these steps, you'll learn how to sketch lightning bolts, apply base colors, blend hues, and add highlights to achieve a striking lightning sky effect in your illustrations.

Materials Needed

• "Spooky Summer" Coloring Book by Southern Lotus Coloring Book
• Ohuhu Markers: V230, V250, V270, V320
• White gel pens (10mm and 5mm)
• Colorless blender
• Pencil

Step-by-Step Guide: Coloring a Lightning Sky

Step 1: Sketch the Lightning Bolts and Apply V230

Begin by lightly sketching random zigzag strokes with a pencil to outline the lightning bolts. Once sketched, use the V230 marker to trace over these lines, establishing the base color of the lightning. This step sets the foundation for the luminous effect of the lightning in the stormy sky.

Step 2: Blend the Sky with V250, V270, and V320

Using the V250, V270, and V320 markers, progressively outline and fill in the areas surrounding the lightning bolts, working from lighter to darker shades. This layering technique creates depth and simulates the turbulent atmosphere of a stormy sky. For a smoother gradient and enhanced realism, consider applying two layers of these colors, blending carefully to avoid harsh transitions.

Step 3: Define the Lightning with White Gel Pens

To accentuate the brightness of the lightning, use white gel pens (10mm and 5mm) to retrace and refine the lightning bolts. This adds contrast against the darkened sky and enhances the vividness of the lightning, making it appear more striking and realistic.

Step 4: Create Cloud Effects with a Colorless Blender

Utilize a colorless blender to add cloud formations around the lightning. By gently blending areas of the sky, you can simulate the diffuse and wispy nature of clouds illuminated by the lightning. This technique adds depth and complexity to the sky, contributing to the overall stormy ambiance.

Final Result: Your Lightning Sky is Complete

By following these steps, you've crafted a lightning sky that adds drama and energy to your illustration. The combination of carefully sketched lightning bolts, layered sky colors, and subtle cloud effects brings the scene to life, enhancing the visual impact of your artwork.

If you enjoyed this tutorial and wish to further develop your coloring skills, consider exploring additional resources and guides on Instagram.