Hudson the Bear

Introduction to Fuzzy Fur

New to Copic Markers? New to Vanilla Arts Classes? This class is perfect for beginners and casual colorers.

Join Amy Shulke, a professional illustrator and marker enthusiast for a fun fur coloring lesson- Vanilla Arts style!

Marker Painting is a completely different approach to coloring with markers. Amy teaches students basic techniques and color theory based on the way artists use paint. Instead of focusing on "how" to color a selected stamp image, Amy shows you the "why" behind color selection, shade, layering, and depth. This provides students with the necessary knowledge to color any stamp image in their collection and every stamp they might purchase in the future.


This class is good for moderate beginners who can blend well

Skill Level: moderate beginner through advanced


In a 30 minute technique lesson, Amy covers the concept of Flow. Understanding the flow of objects is a handy lesson for directing your flick strokes to maximize the realism in your coloring projects.

Then in a three part, fully narrated coloring demonstration, students practice the flowing fur technique on the Hudson the Bear project. Total running time of the three videos is 98 minutes. You'll love the fur technique on this charming Polar Bear but you'll also appreciate the fact that this fur technique can be used on all your furry animal stamps!

Other techniques put to use in Hudson the Bear:

  • Flicking
  • Overflicking
  • Dark to light coloring
  • Kick-out shadows
  • Pushing and pulling
  • Underpainting
  • Scumbling pencil technique
  • Adjusting depth with colored pencils


Two Hour Course includes:

  • 30 minute video- deep-dive look at the Paper Staining technique for Dark to Light coloring
  • 98 minutes of lesson video- color along style instructional video
  • Hudson the Bear digital stamp in three handy formats (PNG, JPG, or quick print PDF)
  • recipe guide
  • full color sample, underpainting guide, detailed color map

Required Supplies: full supply list included in class package

  • high-quality marker cardstock (X-Press It Blending Card recommended)
  • Copic Markers- B00, B02, B60, BG72, BG75, G21, G43, N6, N8, R11, R12, R22, R24, W00, W1, W3
  • Copic Multiliners or Staedtler Triplus Fineliners (0.3) - Black, Light Green, Turquoise
  • white gel pens- Gelly Roll White #50, Uniball Signo White (need both)
  • artist quality colored pencils- True Blue, Olive Green, Carmine Red, Crimson Lake, Indigo Blue, White, Nectar, French Grey 70%, Imperial Violet

Your Instructor


Amy Shulke
Amy Shulke

Amy is a professional freelance technical illustrator with 25 years of experience in graphic arts. Amy began using colored pencils in 1985 and she started with DeSign markers in 1989. Colored pencils with a base of either marker or watercolor is her preferred process for portraiture and scientific illustration. She has a special passion for teaching crafters and shy artists to stretch their boundaries by adding established fine art techniques to their coloring projects.

Join Amy for fun and highly informative lessons which will not only change the way you color but the way you see color in the world around you.


"It's the OMG moments. That's why Amy's classes rock. She explains things that you've maybe noticed before but never thought much about. I love it!"

"At 62 years of age I have no illusions about becoming a great artist but. I am so appreciative of the change in my perception since taking classes with Amy at Vanilla Arts Co. Now I see the play of colors, the motion and the grace... It's a great way to view the world around me."

"I just love the things I'm learning and can't wait to start the next project. Your images are challenging for me and I like that. I'll never look at another image and how to color it the same again!"

"I warn people when they sign up for your classes-- it's not just Copic, it's sooooooooo much more."

"Thank you, Amy for your generous nature. There are many gifted people in the world but you share your gifts so freely. Your classes are wonderful and I sincerely hope that the new online project allows more and more students to fall in love with your classes."

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
Immediately! As soon as you're through the registration and payment processes, the class material will be automatically opened for you.
How much of the course will I have access to? Do you stagger the release of information?
This course is 100% FULL ACCESS from the moment you join. Work at your own pace and do as much (or as little) as you want.
How long do I have access to the course?
Lifetime access! You have unlimited access to the content for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What skill level does this class require?
This class is for moderate beginners who can blend fairly well with confidence. No drawing skills required. Want more info? Email [email protected]
Is the digital stamp included or do I have to purchase it elsewhere?
The digital stamp is included in the class materials. No new purchase necessary. If you previously downloaded the stamp from Patreon, it has not changed. The same version is used here.
What if I'm missing a few markers or supplies from the required list?
I'm very liberal about supply substitutions. BUT please understand that not all markers behave the same way, even if the colors are very similar. Every substitution you make will change the look of your finished project. If you are missing a color and want advice on alternatives, email [email protected]
What if I use a different brand of marker?
I'll be honest, I use Copic because of their brush nib. I've yet to find another maker brand with nibs as springy and juicy. I would suggest that my techniques are unlikely to work well without a brush nib... but if you've got brush nib markers and are willing to match my colors to your brand, GO FOR IT. I will warn you that I won't be much help troubleshooting any blending problems you encounter because I won't be able to test your blends myself.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
I would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact me in the first 30 days and I will give you a full refund.

Get started now!