Make Pokemon Fan Art

I don't have a white pen or a fine marker—what can I use instead?

If you don't have a white pen for highlights (step 12) try leaving tiny uncolored paper spots, using white correction fluid or a dab of white acrylic with a toothpick, and if you lack a fine marker for outlining (step 11) use a darker pencil, thin felt-tip pen, or a sharpened colored pencil.

My sketch looks messy after erasing or my shading looks muddy—how can I fix that?

To avoid smudging when you erase sketch lines (step 7), use a clean kneaded eraser and erase gently after making your firmer outline (step 6), and for muddy shading (steps 8–10) build color in light layers and blend with a stump or tissue before adding darker tones.

How can I adapt this activity for a 4-year-old versus a 12-year-old?

For preschoolers simplify by choosing one Pokemon (step 1), tracing basic shapes (step 3) and coloring with crayons (steps 9–10), while older kids can use two reference images, refine the firmer outline (step 6), practice directional shading (step 8) and add detailed outlines with a fine marker (step 11).

What's a fun way to personalize or extend the drawing beyond these steps?

Personalize by inventing a unique accessory or pattern (step 5), adding a matching background scene and texture with mixed media before layering colors (steps 9–10), or making a series of themed Pokemon and sharing them on DIY.org (step 14).