Simple tricks to improve your illustrations
You can start using them now
Hey there,
I’m always looking for ways to improve my illustrations, and over time I’ve picked up a lot of helpful tips and tricks from various sources. I’ve listened to countless podcasts, attended both in-person and online courses, and had my portfolio reviewed by industry professionals. Now, I’ve compiled some of the most useful advice I’ve learned and simplified it into an easy-to-use list. I often refer to these tips like a checklist when starting a new illustration. Below are my top 10—hope you find them as helpful as I have!
Illustration tips and tricks
Start with design, then focus on values before adding colour.
Tell a story through your illustration and add layers to your work— show the cause of emotions, not just the reaction. For example if a character is sad, show a melted ice cream and a hot sun.
Make your characters unique— use their clothing to hint at personality traits.
When shading, avoid black for shadows or white for highlights— use complementary colours instead.
Create distinct textures for different materials— don’t rely solely on colour.
Use strong silhouettes to make shapes easily recognisable, even with minimal details.
Choose a colour palette that supports the mood of your illustration.
Use negative space to guide the viewer’s eye to your focal point.
Play with composition to enhance storytelling and focus on key elements.
Experiment with perspective to add drama and interest to your scenes.
Incorporating these tips into my creative process, has helped me improve the technical aspects and enhance the emotional impact of my illustrations. So, experiment, refine, and most importantly, have fun!
And most importantly, this newsletter is a platform for us to connect, share experiences, and continue building friendships in the world of illustration.
Feel free to leave a comment, ask questions, and share your own tips.
I would love this to be a community that uplifts and inspires us all.
News
The illoguild live session is on 21 October ‘ILLOGUILD Talks: Lessons Learned in Illustration. Join us for the live chat (register here) or you can sign- up to the illoguild newsletter to watch the replay.
Last month I attended a wonderful day with the kidlit community hosted by SCWBI Australia East at the NSW State Library. I loved hearing from Sean Avery and got a sneak peak of his new book. A huge highlight was meeting people in person, who I have gotten to know online.
Thanks for reading!
You can see more of my work on my website or instagram.
Also please check out the Illoguild Newsletter! It comes out next week.
Each month we all answer the same question. It’s so great to see how each person has a different approach. This month all the contributors will share their ‘Top Recommendations for Illustrators!’
My Books
‘Boldilocks’ (out 2025). “Boldilocks is a boy with hair so spectacular and shimmering that everyone looks at him, embarrassing him wherever he goes. But when Pa takes him to the hairdresser to do something about it, something unexpected happens. With a little salon magic and a whole lot of love, much more than hair is transformed. Boldilocks celebrates the power of community and being confident in your skin (and hair), and will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt a little bit embarrassed about how they look.”
‘Our Australian Heart’ is an anthology celebrating Australia, featuring my illustration “New Life at The Great Barrier Reef”. Sale proceeds are to be donated to The Indigenous Literary Foundation.
Mia’s grandma is no ordinary grandmother. She is a very busy grandmother who is curious, fashionable and adventurous. Glamma always has time to share her love of the world with her granddaughter Mia, so is she just like any other grandmother?
Little Shark Lulu is Sleeping Little Shark Lulu is trying very hard to go to sleeeep…
But, all around her, lots of sea life are wide awake and busily hunting, eating or playing. How can Lulu nod off with all that underwater fun and games?
🩵Great tips, as always!