Stages of layering sketches by joeykoen96 on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

This is a simplified overview of my sketching and layering process. I start with a rough outline of the concept, then gradually build up the sketch by layering details over the outline. I add colored lines to emphasize key details, preparing for the coloring stage. Robust lines get an extra thick layer, and deeper colors are added to enhance the depth. Outlines are redrawn and erased as the layering builds up, refining or adjusting elements as needed across multiple layers.

A fully colored drawing typically involves well over 30 layers. For example, the process from steps 1 to 5 is condensed from 43 layers, though it’s still not complete (the final version is private). Individual layers can vary, with one primary layer containing up to 7 layers, while another includes 15.