Pen and Ink Style

Leaves drawn in washes of watercolor and accented with ink

Maybe Buttons & Beads is more of a watercolor wash and ink kind of story? With so many style options it is hard to choose. We need a style that resonates with and amplifies the themes of the book, and which can get the technical business of illustrating the subjects done as well.

The heavier approach to paint seen here (particularly the top illustration of the squash) is suitable for the guidebook-like nature of some of the drawings. On the other hand the the illustration above gives a sort of nostalgic feel appropriate for the story.