Japanese pro Advice to students – How to draw shadows on clothing

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Hello everyone.

Many people have the same problems when they draw.

So here is some advice from Anime Art Academy teachers to actual students.

Let’s use it as a reference when you draw illustrations and manga!

How to draw shadows on clothing

Student

Hello! I coloured drawing I did on other lesson I hope gradient shade look ok. I still trying my best to improve on clothing because it is my weak area I think! Is there any area that can be shaded better? Thank you alot Teacher!

Teacher

This is amazing work! I can tell you’ve worked really hard on it!

The original line drawings were good, but the addition of the paint makes the girls even cuter!

It is especially great how well you painted around the face!

Be aware of the light source when painting the entire outfit as well. It is even better if you see the shadows as lumps instead of lines! Paint the right side where the light is shining on it with less paint and brighter colors. The left side is the shadow, so paint in a little more detail and darker color. If you are conscious of this, it will be better! Regarding color, if you use a lot of red on a white apron, it will look dirty. This has to do with the hue. Basically, white cloth should be finished in blue tones.

This is a very pretty painting! Your progress is great! Keep up the good work!

Student

Thank you so much! I repaint and redraw the frill area and also follow some of teacher shade area I hope the clothes look better! I continue to keep trying! I hope it does not look dirty!

Teacher

This is an excellent improvement! Your progress is really impressive.

Keep up this practice, and your technique will continue to improve. Keep working hard!

What is Anime Art Academy?

Anime Art Academy is an online course with video lectures and personalized advice from Japanese professionals as described above.
This course is beneficial for everyone from beginners to advanced students.