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As a child, there was no greater joy than bringing life to black and white pictures through the art of coloring. The colorless pages begged for life; whether that life was realistic or fantastical was completely up to the intention of the artist.
Over time, however, stigmas began developing in older children’s minds that coloring was an activity simply for little kids. By the age of eight, many children saw themselves as “too cool for coloring”. This attitude most likely sprung up due to children’s perception of a lack of interest in coloring in adults. For, if adults think that coloring is beneath their talents, then older children will begin picking up on that attitude as well.
Yet, recent crazes have led to the invention of coloring books specifically designed for adults. So what changed? Well, first off, society began recognizing that many adults missed giving life to pictures, even though many had claimed to be “too old” to sit down and color. Secondly, psychologists came out with test studies showing how coloring was actually a great form of stress relief, especially for adults.
Nowadays, adult coloring books can be found in practically any type of store – grocery stores, book stores, discount stores, etc. – ensuring that adults are able to find a coloring book which interests them.
Being able to choose from a wide range of coloring books is only half the battle for adults, though. In order to color successfully, as any child can point out, coloring implements are required. Mostly, children use crayons or colored pencils to create their artwork. While both of these instruments could still work for adults, there is something so satisfying about breaking the childlike rules of coloring by using a coloring implement that most parents frown upon: markers.
Most parents are not thrilled when children try to color with markers as the mess is more extensive and harder to clean off of furniture. The fact that markers are banned for coloring purposes by most parents makes them perfect for adults!
A great collection of markers are the colorful duel-tip markers by Erin Condren: not only do the markers include a fine tip side for precise shading and outlining and a thicker side for faster coloring, but the markers are also thin enough and sturdy enough that adults can use the markers without the hassle of worrying whether the marker will easily stay in hand or not.
As mentioned before, the best part about these markers is the duel-tip function. Instead of having to compile a wide variety of markers before coloring can begin, these markers offer artists a cap on both ends in order to keep the pile of makers small and easy to transport.
In the long run, coloring helps both adults and children relax by allowing them to create beautiful scenes that are challenging to draw but easy to fill in.
The simple act of coloring brings people together and decreases stress.
So what are you waiting for? Go get a coloring book and some markers and have fun!