Tips for Left-Handed Artists Using Pastel Pencils (and Following Right-Handed Tutors)

Being left-handed in a predominantly right-handed world can be a challenge, especially in the art world. As a left-handed artist, you might face unique obstacles, but there are also techniques and tips to help you thrive. Here are some practical strategies tailored specifically for left-handed artists using pastel pencils, including tips for following right-handed art tutors online.

1. Position Your Hand to Avoid Smudging

Pastel pencils are known for their vibrant colours and soft textures, but they can also smudge easily. For left-handed artists, this is a common concern since we naturally work from left to right. To minimise smudging:

• Work from right to left on your paper.

• Use a scrap piece of paper under your hand as a guard.

• Consider using a mahl stick (a tool traditionally used by painters) to keep your hand elevated.

These practices will help you keep your work neat and smudge-free.

2. Adjust the Drawing Angle

The angle at which you position your paper can significantly impact your control and visibility. Many right-handed art tutorials assume a paper angle that suits right-handed artists. As a left-handed artist:

• Tilt your paper counter-clockwise (to the left) to create a more natural wrist movement.

• Experiment with angles to find the most comfortable position for fine details.

3. Mirror Right-Handed Tutorials

When following right-handed art tutors online, reversing their techniques can help. For example:

• If the tutor advises shading from the top-right corner, start from the top-left.

• Use digital tools to mirror reference images or video demonstrations. Many video platforms and image editing tools allow you to flip the visuals horizontally, making it easier to follow along.

4. Embrace Your Unique Perspective

Being left-handed often means approaching tasks with a different mindset, which can lead to unique artistic styles. Pastel pencil techniques, like layering and blending, might come more naturally to you with practice. Don’t shy away from experimenting with your hand dominance to develop your own methods.

5. Learn from Left-Handed Artists

Seek out left-handed artists who share their techniques and experiences online. While most tutorials may cater to right-handed individuals, learning from fellow left-handers can provide new insights and tips specifically tailored to your needs.

6. Practice Patience and Adaptability

Adapting to right-handed tutorials as a left-handed artist requires patience. With pastel pencils, the layering and blending processes are forgiving, allowing you to refine your work gradually. Over time, you’ll discover techniques that suit your natural tendencies.

Final Thoughts

Left-handed artists bring a unique perspective to the art world. By embracing your individuality and adapting traditional methods, you can create stunning works with pastel pencils. With practice, patience, and the right techniques, the challenges of being left-handed can transform into strengths, allowing your creativity to shine.