Portrait of Nelly van Doesburg

Lightly sketch the basic outline of the head, neck, and shoulders with a pastel pencil.

Establish the main areas of light and shadow using light brown and yellow pastels.

Layer in the hair color using yellow, orange, and a touch of red pastel.

Add blue pastel around the edges of the head and shoulders to define the form.

Use purple pastel to indicate shadows under the hair and along the neck.

Refine the facial features, paying attention to the angles of the nose and mouth.

Add the dark details of the clothing with black or dark brown pastel.

Soften edges and blend colors lightly with your fingers or a blending stump.