I didn't find this useful for just starting out with coloured pencils. It's very thorough, with detailed analyses of different brands of pencils and papers, but it is overwhelming for someone wanting to know some techniques to get started with. This book would suit someone wanting to expand their knowledge, or who is looking for information on which brands would suit their budget and style. ( )

I'm currently experimenting with different ways to satisfy my artistic muse. I'm a pysanky artist, and only recently have begun to explore other mediums. My arsenal has several types of colored pencils, which I use only sparingly. Somehow I knew there were other ways to employ the simple colored pencil, but hadn't unlocked the secret. When Blogging for Books offered this book as a selection, I immediately jumped for it, and hauled out my collection of colored pencils in eager anticipation.

The book itself is beautiful, and quite thorough. It explores different types of pencils. and provides many references for identifying quality of materials in colored pencil art, from the pencils itself, to paper, to accessory tools, thoroughly examining the strengths and weaknesses of each. To be honest, I was a bit overwhelmed by it all, as a novice, but think this book will have a happy home on my art reference shelf, and that as I get more comfortable with my own artistic abilities, I'll refer to it more and more. It may be a while though, because, as the book stresses, quality counts. Sadly, only one set of my pencils even made the list, and was moderate at that. If I want to indulge in the techniques explored in this book, I would want to upgrade and to supplement with good quality paper and accessary tools, etc, and my wallet is not yet ready. Even so, there are many techniques and tips that I can apply to pen/marker art and even acrylic painting. Having never taken any sort of art class, this is like having my own private instructor in a book.

Thank you Blogging for Books, the publisher and author for sending a copy of the book my way. I hope someday to be able to fully employ all that it offers.

Tags: blogging-for-books, i-liked-it, not-my-usual-read, read, read-for-review, taught-me-something

A beautifully illustrated book for those who are interested in expanding the artistic techniques with pencils.

I am a person who needs a lot of visuals in order to learn something new, and the author delivers with many high quality pictures on many techniques, step-by-step how-to's and finished worked.
Every material is thoroughly discussed with many details, and many tips on how to use these materials are shared.

This book is not intended for beginners, you must have some basic knowledge in using some pencil mediums and know some beginner techniques and lingo. However, it is helpful to have once you are comfortable into experimenting with the new and stepping up into the next level.

What I enjoyed most about the book is that the author uses all of her own drawings to explain her steps, tips and techniques. It is clear that she is very passionate in sharing what she has learned and loves to work with. I admire her work and will definitely be following her creativeness via social media and in her future writings.

I received a paperback from the publisher for an honest review. My thoughts are all my own. ( )

Well presented and easily read

I like the layout of this book. I especially like the richness of drawing examples scattered throughout. Those certainly added to its kerb appeal. The production is smart and information is easily accessed.
Kristy Kutch is not only a proven shown artist she runs frequent workshops. Check out her website. As an artist and teacher she has produced a book that is an excellent resource for those unable to attend workshops to connect with the medium. I don't learn well by reading about things. I learn best by working alongside someone, the practical hands on approach over the theory. No book replaces that experience. However, if I wanted to refer back to a certain technique post a workshop, or extend my knowledge about a technique, this book is a useful tool.
As an aside, my preference for art books is always as the hard copy, rather than an eBook. I have The New Colored Pencil on my kindle to review, and yes it's readily accessible in this format but I do prefer the physical book. That however is very much a personal idiosyncrasy.
Comparing this with other books on the same topic? Whilst similar to others out there, the ideas are presented in the author's particular style with her leanings. A new slant on things is often rewarding.
After reading the flurry of comments surrounding this publication it is interesting to note that another author of such books mentioned in the comments as being worthwhile is listed in Kutch's 'Acknowledgement' section as a supporter and helper with this production. Two more of the authors mentioned as good examples in the field are listed in the Bibliography.
A rewarding production to browse through from time to time, or give as a present.

A NetGalley ARC ( )