How to Draw a Neon Glow Effect

Every now and then I find myself in need of a sign...

And by that I mean a paper sign (or poster, if you will) to hang on the wall or front door on the occasion of someone's birthday, or when my husband comes back from a business trip. As one can imagine, due to the frequent occurrence of such events, it's been harder and harder to find bright ideas, and my "welcome back" signs have gotten more and more dull.

But not anymore! This easy technique will make your drawings glow!

• black paper or cardstock
• #2 pencil
• acrylic markers (white + basic colors)
• colored pencils

Sketch your design or text on the black sheet.

Trace over the lines with a (3mm tip) paint marker.

Using a matching color pencil, add a soft spread contour on both sides of your line (like an outer glow). Don't worry about it being perfect - my son actually helped with this step, so if he can do it, you can do it too.

Re-trace the lines with a fine tip white marker, to add a highlight.

Go ahead and apply this technique to your greeting cards, posters, notebook covers...