This is the first class in my Marker Basics series — and in it, we’ll focus on one of the most essential skills for alcohol marker art: blending and gradients. In this easy and completely beginner-friendly class, we’ll explore how to work with alcohol markers and create a bright, realistic illustration of a shiny blue balloon.

You’ll learn how to sketch the balloon step by step, create smooth gradients using wet-on-wet blending techniques, and understand how to place highlights, shadows, and reflected light to give your balloon a three-dimensional look. We’ll also practice a simple one-color gradient, a two-color gradient, and a multiple-color gradient exercise to help you master smooth transitions before starting the main project.

This class is broken down into clear, easy-to-follow lessons — from gathering materials and sketching to coloring and blending — making it perfect for anyone new to markers or looking to improve their blending skills.

Whether you’re just starting your marker journey or want to add more fun, playful illustrations to your sketchbook, this class will help you gain confidence and create smooth, vibrant marker art.

Note: I’ll be using Bristol paper, but you can absolutely use any marker-friendly paper you prefer.

Want to explore more? Check out my other marker classes:

Draw Heart Lollipop — Drawing a Candy Heart Lollipop with Markers
Tropical Sketching with Markers — Draw a Coconut and Frangipani Inspired by Bali
Draw a Delicious Donut — Draw a Delicious Donut with Sprinkles
Draw a Watermelon Slice — Draw a Juicy Watermelon Slice

Andrea Solomon

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