Coloring Enthusiast David Wilmoth
Meet Coloring Enthusiast David Wilmoth
In this week’s colorists spotlight series I’m introducing David Wilmoth. Read on to meet David and learn how coloring helps David wind down after work and deal with his tinnitus. Perhaps you will discover some new techniques, artists, books, tips, and ideas for coloring.
(Responses have only been slightly edited for spelling and grammar. Click any picture to open it larger and see a slideshow. -Sue)
When did you get into coloring and what were the circumstances that led you to it?
Although I’ve dabbled for a while, I got caught up in the landslide of adult coloring towards the end of December 2015. I don’t watch television, so coloring is another way to fill space and keep my mind active. Also I developed tinnitus a year ago so anything that diverts my attention from that awesome sound in my ears is welcome.
Colored by David from Insanity – The original stress inducing coloring book
Why do you color? What are the benefits of coloring for you?
I color because it’s fun and it lets me wind down after a day of work. If you can’t draw like an artist, you can color in the lines giving yourself a sense of accomplishment with the self-satisfaction when a page turns out like you envisioned.
What are your favorite media to color with? Do you have a particular favorite type or brand or coloring tools?
I don’t know if I have a favorite media, I started with gel pens mostly but I find myself gravitating towards pencils and markers lately. I seem to have more control with pencils for layers and depth with just as a wide variety of colors as gel pens. I have Crayola
“A Lovely Puzzle” from Splendid Symmetry colored by David Wilmoth
What are some of your favorite coloring books, artists, and styles of coloring art?
Of course Sue Chastain’s OrnaMENTALs and MiniMENTALs books. The Adult Coloring Book Treasury
What do you look for when choosing a book or piece to color?
It needs to strike my fancy. I also look at how well they are drawn and rendered in the book or page. For instance. I like fairies and angels, but if the entire book is all moody and pouty-faced, I’ll pass on it. Usually when I see something I’ll know if I want to color it or not.
“Hippie Girl” colored by David Wilmoth. Line art is by Jason Hamilton from The Adult Coloring Book Treasury 
What’s your favorite place to color? Do you have any coloring rituals?
My kitchen table is my coloring domain. I may color for a couple hours 3 or 4 nights and then be done for a few days. I try to have only one or two pieces going at a time, if I set something aside it may never get finished. I have a meditative playlist I listen to once in a while but mostly silence and the scratching of the pencil on the paper.
Do you do anything special with the pictures you color?
Nothing special although I have considered colored vellum in a window. Mine are all in a stack or still in their books.
“Bloom” from OrnaMENTALs Feel Good Words colored by David Wilmoth
Would you share a favorite color palette?
I don’t have a favorite palette, there are some very nice ones out there. I usually just look in the box or spread what I’m using on the table and use what looks good to me.
“Mandala Matrix” from Splendid Symmetry colored by David Wilmoth
What tip or piece of advice would you give to someone just getting into coloring?
Start with baby steps. Join some groups, and ask questions. Start with one or two mediums, and don’t buy every book you see–try a couple out first. That being said, artists have to eat too, so buy books from them. Be grateful when they offer a free piece, and if you like it buy the book. Don’t bust your budget on coloring supplies, you have to eat as well. Don’t let it consume all your time and most of all, relax and enjoy it because that’s what it’s all about.
What coloring groups, websites, or resources do you recommend?
Coloring Books for Adults, The Cracked Crayon and Adult Coloring Worldwide are a few that come to mind. A lot of friendly talent in them.
From David: “Enjoy coloring, it’s fun not a chore.”
“Peace, Love and Toke” from OrnaMENTALs Whimsical Mandalas colored by David Wilmoth
Thank you for taking the time to answer this interview, David! I’ve enjoyed learning your story and I know others will benefit from your tips and advice!
