Inkscape Tutorial: Add Simulated Shading To Characters

In this tutorial I’ll be demonstrating how you can use Inkscape to add a simulated shading effect to your vector illustrations that makes the design pop and look more lively. This technique assumes the position of a hypothetical light source, and uses manually-drawn shapes with the Bezier Pen to simulate shadows and highlights.




Intro song: "In Da Mood" by Combustibles, used with written permission

[dwilliams]

I appreciate that you repeat the shading/highlighting steps a few different times so we can follow along, then do timelapse...These tutorials are so well timed and well paced. You don't belabor points, but you still cover everything that's needed at an appropriate pace. Hearts to you!

[paullovescoffee]

Everytime I watch any one of your tutorials, my brain muscles get stronger like that of the shark's muscles :)

[ElectricEdje]

I wouldnt have some much fun with Inkscape if it wasnt for Nick!
Your tuturials are very clear, and you manage to make quite complex techniques understandable.
Thanks a lot!

[posceve]

What you call "simple steps" is actually your professionalism, developed over years of work and experience.

[biomcanx]

Another great one Nick, just those little changes make a HUGE difference on the logo. Thanks!

[djmc]

OK, I have been watching your tutorials and using Inkscape for years, I never knew you could grab the Edit Paths by Nodes tool and just move a line into a curve! Best 12 minutes and 58 seconds I spent yesterday!

[davidvarga]

I get it now. Use shapes to start off without the outlines. Modify them into the picture you need. Then add the outline and shading.
I was trying to draw shapes with outlines and I couldn't fathom how people add shades to that. Now I know they are separate. Thanks

[onesyphorus]

tutorial on adding shading, not WHERE it's supposed to be placed, which you stated from the start. 10/10 tutorial

[nahtesalinas]

Great. I've been working on an original character design for weeks now and this helps in my mission to take it from the page to the computer screen.

[krisnaxda]

I love how you support each other with davies

[SalPiazza-fu]

Thanks Nick I am working on a project and this will help my illustrations pop! 😃

[englischdude]

thanks for this. I also blurred the edges which gave the shadows and highlights a nice soft transition.

[SciFidelity]

Great tutorial, you have a smooth, intuitive teaching style :)

[HATL]

Thanks a lot Nick for these precious tutorials! I've been having a lot of fun with Inkscape lately, I don't think there's literally anything that you can't achieve in this software in terms of vector design. The only functionality I'm desperately waiting for is the CMYK export feature and somewhat easy way to save files as .AI for clients. I hope these 2 features get addressed in future through the support of community. Keep up the good work 👍

[dysb]

Using black & white fills with the opacity turned down can give you shadows & highlights, but lets you keep the effects when you change the base color.

Playing with the blend modes (there are darken & lighten modes & others) can help you find just the right combination.

[cesarrincon]

Awesome! Thank you so much. Greetings from Bogotá, Colombia.

[ADSaaron]

Quality videos every time. Thank you 👍

[jonsteensen]

Put your outlines on the top layer, the solid colour on the bottom layer, and make a shading layer inbetween. That way you don't need to move every shade down below the outlines, you just need to make sure that you are working on the right layer. It saves you a lot of time and clickd, and you'll work more efficiently.

[luminrabbit]

Nick man, you are awesome and you make it look so easy 👍👍👍

[bobbonham]

Wow. I learn something every time. Thanks!!