Fixing Mistakes

Fixing coloring mistakes in a book depends on the medium you are using. Since crayons are wax-based, they can be more stubborn than colored pencils, but several techniques can help salvage your work.

• • Kneaded Eraser: This is often the safest choice for coloring books. Instead of rubbing, you dab the eraser onto the waxy pigment to lift it off without damaging the paper’s “tooth.” 
  • White Plastic/Vinyl Eraser: For more stubborn marks, a clean white plastic eraser can lift more color. Rub gently in circular motions to avoid thinning the paper.
  • Careful Scraping: For thick, waxy crayon buildup, you can very carefully use a sharp blade or fingernail to scrape off the excess top layer of wax before trying to erase the remainder.

• • White Gel Pen: This is perfect for small “slips” outside the lines. Use an opaque pen to draw back over the error once the surface is dry. 
  • Acrylic Paint Pens: For larger mistakes or very dark colors, an acrylic paint marker provides better coverage than gel pens. 
  • Layering Darker Colors: Sometimes the easiest fix is to change your plan. Color over a light mistake with a significantly darker shade to incorporate the error into a new shadow or pattern. 

• Incorporate into Art: Turn a rogue mark into a new element, like a small leaf, a butterfly, or a background texture.
• Redraw Lines: If you’ve colored over a black border, use a black fine-liner pen to re-establish the sharp edge of the drawing.