How to Colour Denim Like a Pro
In this tutorial, you'll see a step by step how to create realistic, cozy denim using markers and pens. Don’t worry if you’re new to blending this look is all about layering, shadows, and a few well placed highlights.
Step 1: Build Your Base
Start with your lighter blue marker (I used B220) to fill in the main denim area. Keep your strokes even and follow the natural direction of the fabric up and down for pant legs, side to side for pockets and hems.
Once the first layer is dry, go over areas like the hems and pockets with a second layer of the same colour to add a little extra depth. This creates a smooth foundation for the shading to come.
Step 2: Add Depth and Highlights
Next, grab a slightly darker blue (like B250) and begin adding shadows. Focus on the areas that would naturally crease or fold, under the belt, along seams, and inside the leg curves.
To balance it out, bring in a light acrylic marker for your highlights. Touch up areas like the tops of thighs or edges of pockets where light would hit the fabric. This contrast instantly gives your denim more life and texture.
Step 3: Add Patches and Texture
Now for the fun part... patches! Using a lighter acrylic marker, create soft square or rectangular shapes on different parts of the jeans. These will look like worn or repaired sections.
Add a bit of shadow around them using B220, then take a black fineline pen to outline the patches with tiny dotted lines. This gives that cute hand-stitched look and adds even more texture to your drawing.
Step 5: Stitching & Finishing Touches
Finish your denim masterpiece with a white acrylic marker or white gel pen. Use it to draw little stitches around hems, patches, and seams. You can even add small highlights to give the denim a slightly worn, realistic look.
The white details make everything pop, it’s like adding that final sparkle that ties the whole piece together.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, the perfect pair of hand coloured denim jeans!
Want to practice yourself? Download our blank denim jeans page here:
If you try this tutorial, tag us, we'd love to see how your denim turns out! And don’t forget to save this post for your next art session.
