Creating soft, fluffy clouds is all about layering, light, and subtle color transitions. In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to paint clouds using acrylic markers, focusing on simple shapes, controlled shadow layering, and active blending to achieve a light, airy finish created by our talented artist Katie.
What You’ll Need
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Ohuhu Nahuku Acrylic Markers (white 101 , light blue BG85 , mid blue B210 , blue-grey BGY19 , grey BGY05 )
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Greyled pencil
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Eraser
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A6 Card size approximately 13.9cm (H) x 10.7cm (W) or similar
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Optional Scrap paper for testing colors
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build Cloud Shapes Using Simple Forms
Clouds are created from clusters of rounded shapes rather than outlines or sharp edges. Start by loosely mapping out your clouds using soft, overlapping curves.
Focus on:
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Varying the size of each rounded section
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Overlapping shapes to create volume
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Keeping edges uneven and organic
Avoid outlining the entire cloud. Let the shapes flow into one another to keep the form soft and natural.
Step 2: Establish a Clear Light Direction
Before adding depth, decide where your light source is coming from. For this tutorial, the light source is positioned from the top left.
This means:
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Highlights will sit on the top and outer edges of the cloud
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Shadows will fall underneath each rounded form
Keeping the light direction consistent is essential for making clouds look dimensional rather than flat.
Step 3: Apply the Base Color & Background
Using a light blue marker first colour in the background. If streaky, use a wet paintbrush to blend. white or very light blue acrylic marker, gently fill in the cloud shapes.
Tips for this stage:
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Use light pressure
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Apply color in small circular motions
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Focus on even coverage rather than perfection
Acrylic markers work especially well here because their opacity allows you to build layers without streaking.
Step 4: Layer Shadows to Create Depth
Choose a soft blue or blue-grey for your shadows rather than a dark grey. This helps maintain the lightness of the cloud.
Start with the lightest shadow layer:
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Apply shadows underneath each cloud bump
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Focus on areas opposite the light source
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Keep the application subtle
Once the first layer is down, add a second shadow layer in smaller areas where clouds overlap. If needed, a third layer can be added sparingly for extra depth.
Step 5: Add Highlights and Final Details
Using a white acrylic marker, add highlights only where the light hits strongest. These should sit on the top and outer edges of the cloud.
Highlights should be used sparingly. Too many bright areas can flatten the cloud rather than enhance it.
Finish by:
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Softening any harsh edges
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Balancing light and shadow
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Making small adjustments as needed
Final Thoughts
Soft clouds are built gradually through thoughtful layering and blending. By keeping shapes simple, shadows subtle, and highlights controlled, you can create clouds that feel light, dimensional, and calm.
Acrylic markers make this process approachable and enjoyable, allowing you to layer confidently and blend smoothly. Experiment with different color combinations and light directions to make the technique your own.
