Colorist Spotlight: Lora Pancoast

Lora Pancoast

Meet Coloring Enthusiast Lora Pancoast

For this week’s colorists spotlight series I’m introducing an extra special colorist. You see, I’ve known her all my life! It’s my big sis, Lora Pancoast! Read on to meet Lora and 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?

Bloomandala colored by Lora Pancoast.

When my sister, Sue Chastain starting making these coloring books! LOL! I always loved coloring with my kids but who has time, right?

Why do you color? What are the benefits of coloring for you?

Now I color mostly in the evening when relaxing and watching TV with my husband. Sometimes I may not care for a show so it keeps me busy. I also like to crochet but this gives me another option when my hands get tired of crocheting. I like to create things and I enjoy the finished product.

What are your favorite media to color with? Do you have a particular favorite type or brand or coloring tools?

Right now I would say my favorite media are markers, and of those, Bic Mark-Its are my favorite. They are truer to the cap color than Sharpies. I also like the Crayola Twistable pencils. They go on smooth and you don’t have to sharpen them. Nice for shading.

Lucky Charm design from Splendid Symmetry, colored by Lora.

What are the top 3 coloring tools you would not want to be without?

Time, Bic Mark-its, a clipboard, and a good light.

What are some of your favorite coloring books, artists, and styles of coloring art?

Sue Chastain’s books… she is my sister, what more can I say? LOL! So far that is all I have colored in. Truly not because she is my sister but because I do like her designs. I did buy the Adult Coloring Book Treasury book but have yet to color in it. I enjoy symmetrical designs more than pictures so far, but may venture out at some point.

From MiniMENTALs On-the Go Coloring Book colored by Lora Pancoast.

What do you look for when choosing a book or piece to color?

The design and how I can color it – I try to plan my colors around the design.

What’s your favorite place to color? Do you have any coloring rituals?

In my recliner 🙂 I have all my coloring things on the second shelf at my end table all within reach when I get the urge.

Would you share a favorite color palette?

So far the one I’m working on now is – steel blue, coral and a magenta. I also like shades of blue and oranges. Bright Colors!

What tip or piece of advice would you give to someone just getting into coloring?

Make your supplies as simple and easy to get to as possible–that makes it relaxing to me. Make a copy of your page before coloring so if you aren’t happy with it you can do it again. Always remember it’s your own creation and doesn’t have to be perfect. Variety is fun. Experiment with different colors. Don’t feel like you have to finish it in one sitting.