i know what you're thinking, everyone is using dodge and burn now. so why am i writing this tutorial?

simple. because i use pixel shading, and i still think that it's worthwhile, and that it can be just as beautiful, and somtimes even more beautiful, than what is shaded with dodge and burn. i love pixel art.

the first step to making doll hair is to create the outline. to do so, select a color that you want the hair to be. to make the outline, select a color slightly darker than you wish the hair to be, and make it using the line tool like so:

when you've done this, you're on to the next step.

the second step involves patience, and a keen eye. first, select the main color of the hair, and the two or three shading colors you want to use, and set up a little pallette where you want to work. fill in with the base color, so you get something like this:

after that, you're ready for the final step.

the last step is the most important, the shading. when shading, use the colors that you've preselected. use this with at least two colors other than the original base color.

shading is very important if you want the doll to look like a real character, or like they have nice shiny hair. when you use more than one shading color, it should look something like this when finished:

and really, it is that easy. you can use a million and a half, or three colors and the hair will turn out beautifully.

when you're done, the shading should be gradual and smooth, like the finished product here:

if you want to try pixel shading, and don't know how to cange the colors, here is a handy chart of colors for your use. to get a color, use the tool that looks like a medicine dropper and select it.

if you'd like to use these colors, please credit me the same way you would give base credit. don't offer this chart in whole or part on your own site.

long live pixels :)