Retro Anime Characters: Coloring & Shading Workflow in Clip Studio Paint

Workspace Setup & Flatting

• 💡 The artist begins by setting up reference layers for line work and a mask layer to contain colors, preventing coloring outside the lines.
• 🎨 The magic wand tool is configured to reference only selected layers, allowing precise selection of areas for filling.
• 🖌️ The initial coloring phase, known as flatting, starts with skin tones, then larger objects, using the bucket tool for efficiency and a pen tool for touch-ups.
• ✅ A mat layer with reduced opacity helps identify and correct any missed spots or gaps in the flat colors.

Efficient Workflow & Hotkeys

• ⌨️ The artist emphasizes the importance of hotkeys and peripherals (like a keyboard or Tour Box) for a fluid and efficient workflow in Clip Studio Paint.
• 🔄 Custom hotkeys are used for frequent actions, such as toggling between pen and pencil, gradient and bucket tools, and erasing/filling without switching tools.
• 🧠 The workflow is designed to maintain momentum and avoid wasted time, allowing for quick adjustments and optimizations during the coloring process.

Cel Shading Principles

• 🖼️ Cel shading is treated as a