Cut Edge Coloring – Not Cel Style Shading

January 6, 2008 in Digital Painting by Vyoma | 1 comment

I need to put an errata. This post is to correct the earlier post where I described a style of coloring as ‘Cel’ style shading.

I came across this when I was doing some research in the library. The particular book, ‘The DC Comics Guide To Coloring And Letering Comics’, by Mark Chiarello and Todd Klein details on the different styles of coloring (or rendering styles).

  • Flat Coloring
  • Cut Edge
  • Airbrush
  • Cut Edge with Grads and Airbrush
  • Manga and Anime
  • Painted

This [Cut Edge] is same as flat coloring with the addition of flat, graphic shading and/or highlights. Using the Lasso tool to add hard-edged shading gives flat cocmics a little more style. Many independent comics are colored in this stylized fashion because, if done properly, a hip, underground look can be attained. When creating cut-edge modeling for most modern comics, you’ll have to create transitional “steps” between your basic flat shapes. This technique is the backbone of the majority of moder comic book coloring.

Chapter Seven – Coloring Style, Page 67-68

Hence, I stand corrected. The style I described as Cel Style Shading is technically refered to as Cut Edge Coloring in the industry.

On a side note – grab a copy of that book. It is a very interesting and informative read.