A tiny white spot can turn a flat eye into a sparkly one or a gray robot into shiny metal. Highlights are one of the fastest ways to make coloring look finished.
What is a highlight?
A highlight is where light hits a shiny surface most strongly. It looks like a small white or very light spot.
Three ways to add highlights
1. Leave it white
Before coloring, decide where the highlight goes. Color around it, leaving a small white spot. This works with any tool.
2. Add white on top
A white gel pen, white paint pen or opaque white pencil can add a highlight over color. See gel pens and metallic markers.
3. Erase it
With colored pencil, a good eraser can lift some color to make a soft highlight.
Where to add highlights
- Eyes. One small white dot in each eye, on the same side. Try it on Trace Then Color: Cute Cartoon Animals.
- Metal. Robots in Trace Then Color: Cartoon Robots look shiny with a white streak. See coloring fur, scales and metal.
- Wet things. Fish, bubbles and water in Trace Then Color: Fish, Sea Creatures and More.
- Round things. Balls, apples and planets.
Match the light
All highlights should be on the same side, where the light comes from. Pair highlights with easy shading on the opposite side for a 3D look.
Kids love the "sparkle eye" trick. It’s often the first technique they show off to others.
Questions parents ask
What age can kids add highlights?
Leaving a white dot in eyes works from about age 5.
What’s the best white pen for kids?
A white gel pen is easy and inexpensive. Test it on scrap first.
Why do my child’s highlights disappear?
White crayon over dark crayon may not show. Leave the spot white instead.
About Kevin Coulston
Kevin Coulston is a cartoonist and member of the National Cartoonists Society who has written and illustrated more than 100 drawing, tracing and coloring books for kids, including the Trace Then Color series. Meet Kevin or browse all his books on FirstArtBooks.com.
