You don’t need to be an artist, own a large collection of supplies, or know complicated techniques to get started with adult coloring. A coloring page, a few pencils, and a little time are more than enough.
If you’re new to adult coloring, here’s how to get started simply, without pressure or the feeling that you need to do everything “right.”
Why Start Adult Coloring?
As we explained in our previous articles about why coloring is so relaxing and the benefits of coloring for adults, adult coloring can be an enjoyable way to slow down and spend a little time doing something creative.
Some of the reasons people enjoy it include:
- an accessible creative activity that doesn’t require previous experience;
- a simple way to spend some time away from screens;
- a quiet break during the day;
- the pleasure of creating something with your own hands.
So, where should you start?
What Type of Coloring Page Should You Choose?
The most important thing isn’t to find the “perfect” coloring page. It’s to choose a design that genuinely makes you want to start coloring.
Simple Coloring Pages
Simple designs are ideal for a first coloring session. They usually have fewer details and larger areas, making them easy to color without feeling overwhelmed.
Mandala Coloring Pages
If you enjoy repetitive and symmetrical patterns, mandalas offer a structured design that naturally guides your coloring.
Floral and Nature Coloring Pages
Flowers, leaves, plants, and other nature-inspired designs offer soft, organic shapes and plenty of freedom when choosing colors.
Cozy Coloring Pages
Cozy interiors, books, candles, mugs, and other warm details can be especially enjoyable when you want a relaxing activity in the evening.
The best approach when you’re starting is simply to try different styles and see what you enjoy most.
What Supplies Do You Need to Get Started?
You don’t need complicated equipment. A few basic supplies are enough.
Colored Pencils
Colored pencils are easy to control and work particularly well for details, shading, and gradual color changes.
Markers
Markers usually produce brighter, more saturated colors and can be useful for larger areas. However, the type of paper matters because some markers can bleed through thin paper.
Paper
Choosing sufficiently thick paper can help prevent colors from showing through to the other side, especially when using markers.
A Pencil Sharpener
A sharpener is a small but useful addition, particularly when working on detailed coloring pages.
There is no need to buy a huge set of supplies when you’re just starting. A small selection of colors is enough to discover whether adult coloring is something you enjoy.
Colored Pencils or Markers: Which Should You Choose?
Both can work well, but they create different results.
| Colored Pencils | Markers |
|---|---|
| Easy to control | Often produce brighter colors |
| Great for shading and blending | Quick for coloring larger areas |
| Well suited to small details | Can create bold, even areas |
| Allow gradual color changes | Usually require more attention to the paper |
For a first experience, colored pencils are often a versatile choice because they give you plenty of control. You can always try markers later if you prefer stronger colors.
How Should You Choose Your Colors?
Choosing colors can feel surprisingly difficult when you’re faced with a large collection. You don’t need to overthink it.
Try these simple approaches:
- start with a small color palette;
- choose colors you naturally like;
- use a color wheel and basic color theory if you’d like to experiment with color combinations;
- don’t feel that you have to reproduce real-life colors;
- test your colors on a separate piece of paper before using them on your coloring page.
And remember: a flower doesn’t have to be pink, a house doesn’t have to be brown, and the sky doesn’t have to be blue.
Do You Need to Follow Rules to Color Well?
No. This may be the most important thing to remember when you’re starting.
- There is no right or wrong color.
- You don’t have to use realistic colors.
- You don’t have to finish every coloring page.
- You don’t have to color quickly.
- Your finished page doesn’t have to be perfect.
Adult coloring is supposed to be enjoyable. There is no grade at the end.
What Mistakes Should Beginners Avoid?
A few common frustrations can easily be avoided.
Buying Too Many Supplies
A huge box with 100 or more colors may sound exciting, but it can also make choosing colors more difficult.
Starting with a small selection is often easier.
Choosing a Coloring Page That Is Too Complicated
A highly detailed design can be beautiful, but it may not be the best choice for your first coloring session.
Starting with a simpler design can help you get comfortable with the activity.
Trying to Create a Perfect Result
Coloring isn’t a test. A page doesn’t need to look professionally colored to be enjoyable.
Comparing Your Coloring to Other People’s Work
Everyone has a different style. Some people prefer bright colors, others prefer soft palettes, and some people leave areas completely white.
There is no single “correct” way to color.
Forcing Yourself to Finish
You can stop whenever you want.
You can leave a coloring page unfinished, come back to it another day, or decide that you’d rather start a different one. That’s completely fine.
How Much Time Should You Spend Coloring?
There is no required amount of time.
You might color for:
- 10 minutes during a short break;
- 20 minutes at the end of the day;
- an hour when you have more free time;
- several days on the same coloring page.
The goal is to find a rhythm that works for you rather than following a fixed rule.
Where Can You Find Adult Coloring Pages?
This is exactly what Mila Pastel is here for.
You can find free printable coloring pages for adults in different styles and levels of detail, including mandalas, nature designs, cozy scenes, and more.
Ready to try one?
Explore Mila Pastel’s free printable coloring pages and choose a design that makes you want to pick up your pencils.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to know how to draw to start adult coloring?
No. The drawing is already created. You simply add the colors, without needing any particular artistic technique.
What supplies do you need to start coloring?
A few colored pencils or markers, suitable paper, and a pencil sharpener are enough to get started.
What colored pencils are best for adult coloring?
Choose pencils that feel comfortable to control and that allow you to build up color gradually. You don’t need an expensive professional set when you’re starting.
Are markers suitable for adult coloring?
Yes. Markers are particularly useful for bright colors and larger areas, but make sure your paper is thick enough to prevent bleeding.
What coloring page should beginners choose?
A simple design with relatively large areas is often a good starting point. Once you’re comfortable, you can move on to more detailed designs such as mandalas.