Use many shades of one color in a drawing

What can I use if I don't have white or black paint or a palette?

If you don't have white or black paint, use the paper's white for highlights and darken your chosen color by mixing in a tiny bit of dark brown or its complementary color while following the 'Create at least six shades on your palette' step.

My colors keep getting muddy when I blend—what should I do?

If blending creates muddy edges, let the painted layer dry (as the instructions remind you to 'Let your artwork dry completely before touching it') and then gently feather the transition with a clean damp brush or light pencil strokes between the specific light and midtone areas.

How can I adapt this activity for different age groups?

For preschoolers, pre-mix three tints, skip the detailed pencil sketch, and use washable tempera to fill large light and shadow areas, while older kids can lightly sketch a complex composition, mix six to ten shades on the palette, and paint small details and accents as described.

How can we extend or personalize the finished drawing?

To personalize the project, add texture with sponging or sprinkling salt on wet paint, use a metallic or white gel pen for the 'small details and accents' to make highlights pop, or create a series of value strips on separate papers to compare color families before sharing on DIY.org.