This Art and Design scheme of work video introduces pupils to the technique of layering colours to create richer, more vibrant effects in their drawings.

Rather than using a single colour pencil, children learn how building up layers can make shades deeper and more interesting. The video demonstrates how to start with light strokes using one colour, then gradually add new colours over the top to create depth. By layering in different directions, children can achieve smoother, blended tones. They also experiment with light pencils—like white—as a final layer to help merge colours together.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Year 4 Drawing: Exploring tone, texture and proportion unit. It supports children to develop confidence and creativity with colour in their artwork. The approach develops pupils’ control of media, understanding of tone and colour, and helps them create more expressive, realistic drawings.

See more of our Year 4 Art and design scheme of work.

Art and design, Year 4, *Updated* Drawing: Exploring tone, texture and proportion, Lesson 5: Using tone, texture and proportion in drawing.