How to color with markers?

Swatch first, choose paper that matches the ink, and fill each region with steady overlapping strokes. Add darker layers only after the base color is even.

Match the marker to the paper

Water-based markers are forgiving but can roughen thin paper when layered heavily. Alcohol markers blend smoothly but bleed through more easily. Whichever type you use, place a scrap sheet underneath and make a small swatch card before coloring the page.

Fill in a consistent direction

Start at one edge and move across the region with a steady speed. Overlap strokes while the ink is wet, and finish a section before jumping to another. For broad areas, use the widest part of the tip; use the point only near corners and outlines.

Add depth with a second pass

Choose one side of the object as the shadow side and repeat a shorter pass there. Two related colors usually look cleaner than many competing shades. If streaks are the problem, the page on even marker fills has a more focused checklist.