How many layers should I use? (Patreon)

I often get asked about layers. And in this post I'd like to show how I use layers with an example. 

The Drawing Layer is the main layer for drawing. On this layer I fill my illustration with color and then blend the colors with the Water Wash Brush. Then I start creating details, drawing shadows, highlights, etc. You can continue drawing on the same layer or create a new layer on top of it. Let me give you some examples of when to use the extra layer:

1. White Details / Highlihts: Watercolor brushes have an imitation of watercolor, and if you use white over the painted color, the white strokes will be transparent and not bright enough. For this you can add a new layer and create white details on it. 

2. Textures / Splatters: Use a new layer to add texture and watercolor splatters. This way you can easily manipulate this layer by adjusting the opacity of the layer and applying "Multiply" for more contrast. 

3. Dark Details. Create an additional layer for dark elements to get more contrasting details.  

I hope this information was helpful! ✨