# CitrusExists
> If I can do something YOU can do anything
Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts.
Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`).
## Pages
### Who?
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/about/
Last updated: 2026-07-14T19:40:35.000Z
Ehmn... Hello? What are you doing here? 

I didn't expect anyone to come to this place... Are you really that bored? Or are you just lost? 

Anyway, might as well greet you properly. Ekhm... WELCOME TO MY DOMAIN (sounds cool, right?). 

Here you can call me Citrus. 

Why Citrus? Citruses are colorful, bitter, and it really hurts when you put them on a wound, just like me.

### Why?

Why am I here, you ask? Why are we all here? What is the reason? Philosophy and studies about the sense of life aren't my strongest side, so instead I will tell you a story. 

On the internet was a person. No one big or extraordinarily influential but really loved and important for some. I would rather not focus on the past, so I will give this person a codename... what about “dorca”? Unfortunately, because of reasons, she had to cease her activities and go back to the abyss.

I was devastated, but I wanted to do something for her. Then I realized I'm terrible at everything. My art is comparable to a rat run over on a highway, my writing skill is even worse. Generally, I am as talentless as someone can be. 

After some time and drinks, it hit me. I have a fantastic advantage! All of this means that if I can learn something, everyone can. Always, when I tried to learn anything, all I heard was “just do it” or “you will be getting better" and the worst of all: "it's easy". My response always was: NO, IT IS NOT! 

So here I will be documenting my torment of a completely incompetent person trying to do things. Maybe it will help you learn about something, or perhaps you will just have a good laugh looking at me. 

Anyway, there is only one thing I think you have to remember: if I can do this, YOU can.

### What?

Whatever. Or rather, everything. Expect mostly pixels (not *art* yet!), with my commentary, uncensored, raw, vile, and cruel. I want to create an authentic image of someone with zero talent or any other redeeming qualities, trying to do something with his life. It will be rough, monotonic, or straight-up pathetic at times, but that's how I am. 

My goal is to learn how to make people feel needed and important. As a secondary, I hope someone will see all this struggle and get some strength from it (or at least have a good laugh). That would be wonderful.

###
### Pixel art
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/pixelart/
Last updated: 2024-10-05T21:19:05.000Z
First of all, we need to clarify something. This IS NOT a guide, tutorial or any other type of place where someone who had mastered some ability is educating the masses how to acquire his skill. It's the polar opposite. I don't know anything about pixel art. To be honest, I'm competently talentless in any form of art, so my skills are a little worse than somebodies who never touched canvas before. What is the point of this site then, you ask? I want to present the whole journey of someone who is totally pathetic at something. My goal is to show someone who thinks that he is totally useless and have no real abilities that even him (and especially him) can do anything that he wants. This won't be the journey of a hero, who without problems reaches his goals. There will be blood and tears, I'll probably hate every step and wish to give up every day. I want to show one person (yea only one, I'm not some messiah to help the whole world) that he or she, should not give up, that he is also capable of great things. If you need to hear this: *I believe in you, it might not be so nice and bright right now, but better things will come, you are the sole reason why I'm doing this so you can't give up just now. Whatever your journey is, I'm with you, you can do this.*

If you are still interested, I will post my every mistake here: [https://citrus.ghost.io/tag/pixelart/](https://www.citrusexists.com/tag/pixelart/)
### Contact
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/contact/
Last updated: 2024-10-05T21:19:24.000Z
I have no clue why would you like to contact me, but I can you some ways (it's not like I would love to receive nice message from you or anything!)

Email : [citrusexists@gmail.com](https://mail.google.com/mail/u/2/?ref=citrusexists.com)

Twitter @CitrusExists
## Posts
### #96 Resilient
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/96-resilient/
Last updated: 2026-08-04T20:32:31.000Z
I had so much fun doing this one. It almost didn't happen. I had so many breaks and "This is too hard for me" thoughts. But I can't give up now. Even if I can do only so little. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-192851-1.png)

I think this time I really used a "reference", not just poorly copied someone's work. I had to look at so many things for this piece, I even have a few photos of me with my head tilted to more easily imagine how it should look.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-192859.png)

Yep, this is the "I can't do this" screen.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-192907.png)

It's getting worse and worse. At this point, I only knew that I want to show some of Ides's hair in a darker color as a background... incredible plan, I know.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-192916.png)

Detail by detail, the whole picture is scary, but I know how to make eyes right?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-192939.png)

I decided on a little different hairstyle, sharper and more messy.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193002.png)

Shading also has a big role.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193017.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193026.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193036.png)

That's the face more or less done, time for the clothing.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193053.png)

This is where having something to look at was incredibly helpful. Otherwise I would wonder "how the hell hoodie looks like" for the next 5 hours.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193358.png)

A little tip: if you want to show that one thing is on top of another (like the hood here), don't give it a sharp, clear edge, like I did here. It will make it harder to connect them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193414.png)

I was not sure how to fix the hood, so I worked on the rest of the clothing for a little while.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193444.png)

Here, I fixed it (kinda), just use shades.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193453.png)

I still have no idea how to make clothes interesting, so I was just adding wrinkles and shadings. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/08/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-08-04-193525.png)

Final piece. There is still a lot to improve, but I think Ide looks super cute like this. Maybe I will stay with this design for a while. I have some plans… totally unreasonable and impossible on my skill level. Worth a try.

Thanks for reading!! Sometimes, you just gotta run, regardless of what happens, how scary everything is, how much there is still left to go. Just put your foot in front of the other and go.
### # 95 Burn
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/95-burn/
Last updated: 2026-07-28T21:11:10.000Z
I apologize for the silence... and those weird "no talking posts". 

I was thinking a lot about what I want to say here, but just know: I recently lost a very important part of me. My lovely dog. 

I'm still not used to the void he left behind, and I needed some time to rest.

But I truly believe that *“A man is not dead while his name is still spoken."* 

I would not get that far without him, and I want to get even further with him.

Now Citrus has to exist for two, or at least try. It might be the most pathetic, weak try of this world, but I'll try. We are fighting together now, because even though he is gone, he still alive within me.

GNU Argo - your name will not be forgotten.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-28-224910.png)

This is just a silly copy. Ide also took her time to rest before heading her way again.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-28-224932.png)

I thought it would be cool to use a less saturated color to show that she is tired and resting.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-28-224949.png)

My eepy little baby, you still have so much to face.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-28-224956.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-28-225002.png)

Using the outline as a part of shading is incredibly cool and can lead to some astonishing effects. I have to pay more attention to it in the future.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-28-225016.png)

It's not a bad thing to rest. I think we all forget that. 

Thank you for waiting for me. This journey sometimes is harder than I thought it would be, but somehow also much sweeter. 

I hope we can both continue on our ways, even if we sometimes fall, we just need to get up one more time than we have fallen, and that will be our victory.
### #94 It
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/94-it/
Last updated: 2026-07-28T20:53:05.000Z
![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173508.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173532.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173552.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173603.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173616.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173644.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173655.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173705.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-173715.png)
### #93 Let
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/93-let/
Last updated: 2026-07-28T20:52:15.000Z
![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172642.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172651.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172702.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172715.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172734.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172751.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172808.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172819.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172838.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172853.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172911.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-14-172923.png)
### #92 Echoes
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/92-echoes/
Last updated: 2026-07-10T21:08:38.000Z
Second of the three Sheeps. 

I don't really feel like yapping today, so lucky you, I guess. But you should expect another crashout or even a break... it's not going very well. 

But hey, I'm still here, I'm still trying, and I'm still writing those silly posts, hoping someday someone will get some energy from them. There are times when all the strength is gone, and we just have to believe.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-181817.png)

I was aiming at simplicity with this one. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-181826.png)

Some darker patches show which hair is in the back. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-181857.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-181919.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-181941.png)

Much different from what I normally do, but it looks nice.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-181955.png)

In these simple styles, outlines really complement the pixel well. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-182012.png)

As always, I had a lot of trouble with the body. So I just started doing rough shapes to fill later. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-182023.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-182037.png)

Details + shading are 90% of success.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-10-230255.png)

Also, I realized I forgot something last post. 

BOXES. 

I even had them prepared...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/image.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/image-1.png)

This time I chose more square things to box. 

I apologize for a post like this, but I guess you should be used to me not being able to do shit. Man, if I will really ever succeed, literally no one on this planet will be able to tell that they don't have something needed to reach their goals. 

Thank you.
### #91 Snakes
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/91-snakes/
Last updated: 2026-07-05T19:38:40.000Z
This post will contain much more yapping than pixels... because at some point I forgot to run my recording script...

I'm just spectacular like that, I know. 

Why almost 2 weeks since the last one? HEAT. It was impossible to sit on the PC. Even after it ended, I didn't want to rush to make another post. I feel like most of the last ones are rushed, I feel like I have an hour to do ANYTHING BECAUSE I HAVE TO BECAUSE I HAVE TO POST. In the end I choose something simple, and even on that I can't do my best.

The last 3 days I had an opportunity to try different working routines. I was sitting, chilling all day alone, blasting metal and slowly working on pixels. And I have to say IT WAS SO MUCH FUN. Like seriously, I didn't have that much joy pixeling for a long time. 

I don't really know what to do with this. I rarely have whole days (especially alone) when I can just do what I love. 

Also, all 3 upcoming posts (this included) will be all Sheep because a certain someone would not stop digging out my old pixels and using them, causing me immense pain. Hopefully one day I will be able to make wonderful pixels for people to use, one day.

Enough yapping. This will definitely be the worst of the three, so there isn't too much to learn from this anyway, thankfully.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-05-210536-1.png)

I'm testing kind of an “in-between” model, doing some parts and then sketching the rest. Just sketch often looks so ugly that I can't force myself to continue. I know, I know it's not the correct way, and I understand why: it bites me in the ass later when the composition is wrong, but it's better than no pixel at all. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-05-210558.png)

The only valuable lesson from this pixel: your brain is really conscious about the shape of an eye (even pixel ones). Just a small change, like above, can completely shift the tone. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-05-210625.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-05-210638.png)

I wanted to show here that it's ok to change your sketches too. It's never too late to fix something on a pixel art... unless you are lazy like me. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-05-210704.png)

This looks weird, but that's because I discovered how to change canvas size! It's so useful. I often make things far too small or too large and need to transfer whole pixel onto a bigger canvas. And this whole time I could have just changed it in the settings (sprite -> canvas size, btw). My recording script doesn't seem like it, tho. I'll find some solution for the next post.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/07/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-07-05-210738.png)

Not too big of a skip. Just filling and shading, not even a good one. 

Anyway, thank you for reading (and patience. I feel like you need a lot of patience with me). To be honest, the amount of support I get from every place I share my pixels on is insane. I can't believe soon it will be the two-year anniversary of Citrus existing! 

See you on the next Sheep!
### #90 Side of me
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/90-side-of-me/
Last updated: 2026-06-24T18:50:24.000Z
Today, we take two steps back (I don't think we have made more than two steps foreward. We are not losing to much ground today, heh). 

This is my second pixel made on tablet. Somehow it was easier to sit and work there than on my pc, even if it's much harder. I would rather not promise anything, because every time I do, I never deliver. But I hope to put more work into those "chill, tablet pixels". 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-24-201334.png)

I had no clear goal, so just sketched a little and went with that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-24-201347.png)

The tablet is not the best for single precise pixels, so I went with the other method instead. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-24-201357.png)

As always, light line and shades.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-24-201422.png)

The angle on this one is absolutely random. I think the left eye should be higher? Maybe?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-24-201432.png)

Clothes are an issue, like always. How can people do make look so good with just some shades??? When I try, they look like half is dirty and half in another dimension...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-24-201438.png)

And now, my second step back!

Due to the popular demand (the only demand I only got, thank you Airg!) I finally forced myself to start the next phase of boxes training. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/image.png)

*oh God, this looks terrible*

I'll try to recreate objects using boxes, to understand and be able to better plan in 3D space (or just make myself look stupid... I wonder which one is more likely hmmmm)

Anyway, that's all. Just a weird little step, but all steps are important.

Thank you for being here, and see you on the next one!
### #89 Gone
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/89-gone/
Last updated: 2026-06-20T19:02:08.000Z
I took my sweet time with this one. It was supposed to be just another training, but I have never been a patient person. The idea was so cute that I just had to give my all on it.

Too bad my all is still so little.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-222510.png)

I have a giant problem with overcomplicating designs on my pixels. I literaly try to pixel every every minor detail, even every hairstrand. People don't do that on noral fanarts, but somehow I feel like I have to do it with only few hundret pixels...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-222530.png)

As you can (hopefully) see, this piece is supposed to be, slightly sided. I tried using this round lines, but it didn't help too much.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-222545.png)

The shape of the face is so important. If you make it more round (like above) with combination of big eyes (or eye), the character will look like a baby. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-222602.png)

Keeping it slim, will just make it look like a chibi. Also, sudden color hair change!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-222633.png)

Yep, this hairstyle is mostly copied from Ide's pixels. I have mixed feeling about this. On one hand, it's ok to practice something, right? It's how peopleget their “art styles”. But at the same time, I would to make something absolutely unique for my every pixel... maybe it's just not realistic, the same as perfectly reproducing designs.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-222644.png)

Raw base for the face. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223411-1.png)

Just a few lighter accents, my beloved light line and shades on ears and near the hear. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223442-1.png)

This is what really helped me to “see” the ball, the clear light/dark line. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223455.png)

Now, one of the worst part of this pixel. The Rat ears... round objects drawn at an angle are the awful. To give you some perspective: script that I'm using is saving progress every 7 changes. It took 83 to get from this screen to the moment they were finished. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223511.png)

I still don't think I made them perfectly, but man I had no idea how to make them look better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223530.png)

The rest of the body had a multitude of different forms and sizes. In the end this idea just looked cute in my head. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223546.png)

It was such a struggle to make the hands follow the perspective. I only knew that the right one must be smaller than the right one, and that was the end of my artistic analysys.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-19-223625.png)

I still don't know if making them comepletly straight was the correct choice, but they looked weird too me otherwise. 

It's a weird one, a acombination of 3 different ideas and one hell of a mess that was the creative process.

Once I even literally woke up in the middle of the night with “I GOT THIS”, and started pixeling (if you are curious, that's how I got the idea for the pose). This is the end of the "Bat training" arc (for now!). I really need to get better before trying again.

That's all, apologies for inconcistant posts, I'll try to work more often.

Thank you for reading, bai
### #88 We're gonna be here for a while
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/88-were-gonna-be-here-for-a-while/
Last updated: 2026-06-10T19:56:56.000Z
First time someone I don't know actually visits this place, and I disappear for 3 weeks. Great job, Citrus...

What happened? I tried to make more Eggo, had like 4 tries, and they all went so bad that I just gave up. 

I don't know why. I might shit on myself here a lot, but I'm normally, I'm difficult to stop. When I want to do something, pray for everything that stands in my way.

But for some reason, pixels hit different. I may just be too emotional about it, I can't keep these walls that normally let me get through the worst situations. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205552.png)

Honestly, I don't have any solution at this point. Just do not stop, Citrus. We will figure something out. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205605.png)

Bringing Ide to life was the best decision I made on this journey. I can just pixel her without any stakes. I still try, want her to look good, but I don't feel so bad when I fail.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205712.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205723.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205808.png)

The only success of these past 3 weeks, I wanted to stop here. Clothes are still my biggest enemy, but I have to try to get better, and I did.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205819.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205830.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/06/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-06-10-205838.png)

She looks like a cute little rebel.

Not my greatest work, but at least it's here. This break wasn't 3 months long, like the last one. That means something, right? ...right?

Oki, that's all. When I discover how to get the mental fortitude of a tank, I will make sure to share it here. But for now, it's only me.

And you, thank you for being here.
### #87 Clarity
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/87-2/
Last updated: 2026-05-19T19:10:24.000Z
Today's lesson is... nothing. Not every time you need to have some grand revelation. It's just another try, not completely bad, but not the best. And they are also needed. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202139.png)

I totally didn't forget to start the recording script...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202154.png)

"Almost drop" moment here. But I remembered literally yesterday's pixel. If it looks wrong, move some things. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202217-1.png)

Sometimes things look weird before you fill them. Shades change a lot.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202306-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202413.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202419.png)

That's the method I started using to easier set the pose. I'm SLOOOOWLY getting used to it, but I feel like I'm learning to know how to do this specific outfit. Will I really have to learn how to pixel LITERALLY EVERY KIND OF CLOTHES??? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-19-202436.png)

Thinking in so few pixels is always fun. I love pixelart for that. If I have 20 pixels to show something, I have to make the most of every pixel. 

Anyway, it's just a short little training post. Also, don't worry, I didn't forget about boxes, I'm preparing for the next stage of box fun... yea, so much fun...

Thanks for reading, hang in there, and baai bai.
### # 86 Blow Up
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/86-blow-up/
Last updated: 2026-05-18T18:58:52.000Z
I don't have much to say today. I needed some time to rest, so I didn't even try to pixel anything on the weekend. And that's ok. We are not indestructible: we need to sleep, rest, wind down. Don't feel bad about it. Resting is not wasting time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202103.png)

Another small, uneventful chibi. Like I said in the previous posts, I want to focus less on "great art" (like you have ever seen something great or art on this site, haha) and more on just having fun and keeping the train going. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202116.png)

This piece is unique because I'm absolutely hungover, and I did it only on "instinct." Almost no brain activity was involved (compared to usual, very little brain activity). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202123.png)

I don't know if this is the right way to learn. On the one hand, if I focus too much, I get stressed, scared and don't get anything done. On the other hand, do I really learn something if I just let my body do the thing?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202145.png)

I like the "training" mindset. I can do whatever colors or stupid ideas go wild. Like this purple parts on the hair. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202155.png)

Thank God at least her clothing is simpler. I don't do it well, but at least I know where to start. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202207.png)

Sometimes when things feel wrong, it's about proportions. Try moving some elements, make them shorter or slimmer. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-18-202225.png)

Another little work. Small step. AND THE SECOND TIME I FORGOT THE WINGS, FUUUUUUCK!

Ok, that's all. Thank you for reading, and see you (hopefully) soon.

Baiai
### #85 Explode
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/85-explode/
Last updated: 2026-05-13T20:03:18.000Z
Look! Someone familiar and yet different...

Since Bat got her new form, I want to do something. 

I don't know if other people can just look at someone's design and make great-looking art, but her design is soooo complicated. 

So it's the beginning of the Eggo training arc! I will do mostly her, in different styles, resolutions, and poses, to get used to this model and find ways to make her look as good as it is possible for me. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-211636.png)

I didn't have a clear image of what I wanted to do, except that it would be some chibi. So I just started with an eye. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-211644.png)

Not gonna lie, I almost dropped here. Her hair is so unique and detailed, incredibly difficult to imagine in pixels. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-212800.png)

It was also supposed to be slightly angled, but well... 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-212817.png)

Low-resolution pixels most often look better with an outline. Don't aks me why.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-212830.png)

Some will say that the body needs to be in perfect proportions. I will say, just draw legs and fill the rest.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-212842.png)

I think I did a decent job with her clothes. For me at least. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-13-212908.png)

Basic and quick. But it's a step. Ide also stared at the face with the green helmet, and look how pretty she is now. 

Sorry for the short post. It's kinda late, and I'm so eepy. Good that I was able to do at least this. 

Thanks for being here, and bai!!
### #84 My Shot
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/84-my-shot/
Last updated: 2026-05-10T20:41:26.000Z
Look at my happy baby! So colorful, so happy.

I had so much fun doing this one. Zero restraints, random colors, no care in the world. 

Maybe quality isn't the best, and it's definitely more simplistic, but man, it's cute. I was never able to do cute things, let me have this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-221916.png)

This shot is here to show that the initial plan does not have to be good. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-221929.png)

I tend to get overfocused on line art (yea, I learned a new phrase. Now I can be terrible at pixels, but in a more sophisticated way) but today I just winged it and finished the shape later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222000.png)

Quick eyes, and the beginning of working on the hair. One part after another. First just shap, later there will be time for shades. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222013.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222030.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222046-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222057.png)

When the shape is ready, adding some elements in the middle can also make it look more lively and 3D.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222115.png)

Smug little beast.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222142.png)

My first instinct was to stop with only the hair, but I will never get better in clothes without trying. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222125-1.png)

I will try to do the simplest of outfits for now. We are learning, and that's ok, remember Citrus!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222156.png)

Here I went absolutely crazy, the colors were flying left and right. But one thing that I think I will use more often is this yellow lightning in Ide's hair. It looks really cool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-10-222205.png)

Colorful lady. I love it. Rules are mostly to make you think before you break them, go crazy!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/image-3.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/image-4.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/image-5.png)

Maybe still not good, but I started to notice which lines are wrong and can somehow correct them. That's something.

That's all. Thanks for reading.

See you later!
### #83 World turned upside down
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/83-world-turned-upside-down/
Last updated: 2026-05-04T17:14:54.000Z
I don't know how to start this post, so we will begin with a quote:

  
"You are the only person that can get lost in the forest and find a beer"

For the last few months I have been thinking about what I should have done and what I should be able to do that I had no strength to actually do anything. 

I feel like I'm lagging behind all the time, that my time to do anything is basically over.

WE ARE NOT RUNNING OUT OF TIME, CITRUS, CHILL!!!

I will just have fun. Skill will hopefully follow.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174424.png)

This pixel is heavily inspired... and I must stop letting it bother me. I'm learning. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174454.png)

I absolutely adore this messier hairstyle. And it fits Ide soooo well. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174506.png)

That was the sketch of the hair. I think that's the best way—have a rough sketch, to then fill it step by step. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174521.png)

But first, the eye, nothing special, done the same way I make them every time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174537.png)

Just look how happy she is!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174603.png)

Ide also got a much more saturated shade of green for her hair. I like it, it fits this energetic, messy hair and happy face.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174618-1.png)

So, basically I was going around the edge, fixing every strand. One by one, to now get overwhelmed. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174634.png)

That's the whole face. I'm not sure if I'm the biggest fan of the additional strands. Maybe I should try giving different colors to the ends of the hair?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174656.png)

Now the worst part, the hoodie. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174747.png)

I have to admit. In hair, I was actively using the example, changing it. With the clothes, I'm absolutely condemned to the mercy of the model. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-05-04-174751.png)

Pixeling this was fun. That's all, no quality complaining.

Boooxes. I kind of forgor about doing them... These are fresh, made literally 30 minutes ago, straight from the oven.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/image.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/image-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/05/image-2.png)

I hope you are doing ok. Please, do something fun, even something only you, in the whole world, enjoy. Not because you "should" do it, but just for yourself. No matter how stupid or weird it is.
### #82 one by one
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/82-one-by-one/
Last updated: 2026-04-26T21:25:39.000Z
Instead of crying that I can't draw full characters, I just have to try. 

I have been here, I know how to start from zero. We start at the bottom, some deeper, some closer to the goal. But the only way is to try. And fail. Don't be ashamed, don't be afraid. Every mistake brings you closer to success. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195232.png)

I will do my best to push animation and full-body chibis like this in the following posts. It's the only way to get better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195248.png)

I won't focus on quality so much, sorry. I think I will approach this like my first posts here: do whatever, just to show up.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195256.png)

Because, as always, I have no idea what I am doing, I thought making a silhouette like this might help. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195400.png)

It was actually kind of convenient. Helped me better plan the outfit and work on one part at the time. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195409.png)

The proportions are still absolutely random tho. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195421.png)

Woooow, Ide in a skirt, look at the girl go! Also, cool new hairstyle, she is so stylish today.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-26-195427.png)

It looks a little like a randomly generated character, but that's ok. Having this website as an archive really shows me how much you can improve even from the worst starting positions (really, look at post number 3 and come back to 75). We just need to try. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-7.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-8.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-9.png)

Mandatory boxes. I was kinda cooking with the last one. 

That's all for today. Step by step, we will slowly become better. Better than ourselves. 

Babay!
### #81 One Day or Day One
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/81-one-day-or-day-one/
Last updated: 2026-04-21T19:46:58.000Z
"Citrus, you can't make decent-looking pixel, why the hell are you starting to animate"

I don't know, ok? That's what I am. When I don't know how to walk, I run. When I can't jump, I fly. And fall... fall a lot.

I hope it will motivate me to be better at the normal pixels too. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-203953.png)

I think it will be the best if I just show every frame.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212644.png)

Tried to apply all the rules from the course I mentioned some time ago. 

First, the start and the end of the movement should be slower than the middle. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212651.png)

Also, things should squish and change during the movement.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212654.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212658.png)

We, as humans, are used to seeing afterimages of fast-moving objects, so we should add them to the animation too.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212703.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212707.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212715.png)

We went all this distance in 2 frames... and I used to make every pixel one frame and wondered why my animations were looking weird.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212719.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212723.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212727.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212731.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212735.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212738.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212742.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212746.png)

I don't know what to say... 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212749.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212754.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212758.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212801.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212804.png)

This part is the little "wiggle" part. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212808.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-21-212811.png)

At the end, I want to say that the animation was made from keyframe after keyframe. I made the start, hitting the wall, hitting the ground, and starting to come back, and then filled them using the rules.

It's just a simple ball, so many rules are still not in use. Like, I have to think about making every single element move and lag behind. Next time I will try to make something with more elements. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-3.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-4.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-5.png)

Mandatory boxes. I try to make at least 5 a day. 

That's all. My way might be stupid, but it's mine. It's not like this project was ever insanely optimal. 

See you next time.
### #80 Deafening
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/80-deafening/
Last updated: 2026-04-19T21:13:26.000Z
Something is really wrong, and somehow I can't point out what.

Oh, you thought I was talking about the pixel? No, that's easy, I know exactly what's missing. Skill.

I just feel like, in general, I'm not doing what I should. But I have no idea what I should be doing. I love pixels. Really recently it's the only thing that grants me a piece of mind. And yet I feel sick just thinking about doing them. WHY?

This pixel was made so I can scream into the Twitter void. I know no one will answer, and yet I still did it. I'm just that stupid, I guess. 

Recently (today) I also started working on something new. My 3D imagination sucks, like, really. From what I found, a good way of improving it, is drawing boxes. So ye, apart from the usual, I will post here my terrible boxes, to see if I'm making any improvement. Brace yourself, they are even worse than my pixels.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-222847.png)

I don't understand the hair. Is the angle wrong, or the whole structure? I feel like I do the same thing 3 times and get 3 different results.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-222906.png)

Another thing to work on, I guess. I really start to question how many of those "parts" I will be realisicly able to learn.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-222922-2.png)

Just the simple eye.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-222934.png)

Now it looks a little better, I guess. But it's still so flat. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-222951.png)

A little polish.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-223010.png)

Some shades and lines. The only interesting thing is this weird antialiasing. The outline of hair constantly switches color from darker to lighter, maybe if I had added the third shade, it would have become even smoother?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-19-223017.png)

Ide, as always, cute, even if simple. I wish I could give you more, girl. I promise I will try. 

Now time for boxes.

From what I learned, these lines should all connect in one place... but I'm really far for that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-1.png)

This one is good (I think???).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/image-2.png)

And that's what my average box looks like.

That's all for today. I hope you are doing well. No matter what happens, I still believe in you.

Bye bye
### #79 Castles
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/79-castles/
Last updated: 2026-04-11T20:45:22.000Z
I post this today, hoping that I will be able to do something better tomorrow.

Recently I feel like this site is the only thing stopping me from abandoning this whole thing. The solid proof that sometimes it's really just worse and sometimes better. That we can't control everything, and bad times do not mean that nothing good will come out of it in the future. 

Also, I think making Ide so cute was a giant blunder. This pixel is low effort and terrible even for me, but I just can't not smile looking at her.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-11-215530.png)

These diagonal poses in low-resolution pixels are absolutely obnoxious to make. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-11-215539.png)

It's not possible to start with the eyes, so I had to sketch some head shape. I changed it dozens of times but never got it quite right.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-11-215557.png)

Empty, devoid of hope eyes... she is just like me fr fr

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-11-215614.png)

Much better, but the face still looks weird.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-11-215638.png)

At least the head isn't flat like usual. One step up and roll down the staircase—that's my method.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-11-215650.png)

I think the shadow on top isn't really necessary. Generally, pretty poor job, Citrus. 

But I did it. A bad try is better than no try at all, even if I don't feel like I can say it with conviction.

Anyway, thank you for stopping by. Even on those bad posts. Bad is also part of the life.
### #78 Afraid to
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/78-afraid-to/
Last updated: 2026-04-07T19:11:29.000Z
This hairstyle... hits too close to home... it still hurts

This one is almost an exact copy of Qings works. His skills in making expressive and multidimensional characters using so few colors are insane. 

For the past few days I tried, so many times, to do something. Anything. But I don't have energy for anything. I was sleeping most of the days. I wasn't tired, just... empty. 

I feel like I wasted all this time when I should be getting better in pixels. And it makes me feel even worse, because I know the time is limited... and I still waste most of it...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203208.png)

I had started different pixels so many times that I only remembered to turn on the snapshots here.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203225.png)

There won't be much to learn from this one, because the process was very unnatural. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203241.png)

The shape was basically ready, so I was just copying it. Almost like the old days. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203252.png)

Sometimes I feel like I haven't learned anything, that I'm just better at copying.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203306.png)

The amount of work this few shadows do is incredible. Just look at the two on top. Two small lines of a little darker color, and it sets up the angle and the head shape.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203340.png)

Here, I wanted to change something and give Ide a hoodie, but apparently I have no idea what hoodies look like.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/04/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-04-07-203355.png)

Not good, but I don't have more gas in me. 

At least Ide got a little different hairstyle. She looks charming like this. Even if I feel like shit, looking at her always makes me crack a little smile.

Ok, that's enough. See you, and thank you for being.
### #77 Dangerous
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/77-dangerous/
Last updated: 2026-03-31T21:17:09.000Z
I'M SORRY, IDE, FOR FORGETTING YOUR STRIPES. HOW CAN I FORGET A MAJOR PART OF THE CHARACTER I DESIGNED? WAAAAAA

It was my first time ever even attempting a profile like that. Two years ago I would immediately dismiss an idea as completely unrealistic and crazy! ME?? TRYING TO MAKE SOMETHING SO REALISTICALLY HUMAN???

And yet, somehow here I am. Failing at it. And it feels good. I tried. I failed. I learned. Maybe the next one will not be better. Possibly it will take another hundred tries. But I'm one closer. We all have only one life anyway, it's worth a shot. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-215628.png)

So, I am absolutely aware that I'm supposed to draw some lines and circles here, to set up proportions and so on... but I was never good at listening. Just tried to copy what I saw in a reference I found... just the usual Citrus stuff.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-215803.png)

Ok, this is terrifying... I had to take a short break here, just to convince myself to try some more, because after seeing this, I was soooo ready to quit on the spot.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-215829.png)

In the end, I decided that the correct line art is the most important part here. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220014.png)

Switched to a bigger canvas, as always, my planning skills are immaculate.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220035.png)

I won't show it here, but I redid the back hair part like hundreds of times. It was so difficult to give them the right shape.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220105.png)

Ok, that's our colored sketch. Time to get to work with the details. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220135.png)

First, remove any jagged and doubled lines. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220237.png)

The eye is always the most fun part of the character. It's insane how similar our human eyes are to one another, but somehow our brain can treat almost any colorful shape with a little white around as an eye. I want to see how crazy I can go. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220524.png)

Smoothing out the edges. I went kind of crazy with antialiasing on this one. It was just so satisfying. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220852.png)

In the end, I decided that the light should be straight up front. No matter which direction I would have chosen, it was incredibly hard for me to do anyway. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-31-220923.png)

I really need to find a way to make better hair. I like the double lines on the front part tho, I should keep those.

That's it. Not amazing, but I'm happy I did finish it. Ide also turned out pretty cute... even if I forgot her hair strips... seriously, sometimes I amaze even myself, and I'm me! 

There is also one special thing about this one...

Ok, enough BAI BAI
### #76 Try for me
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/76-try-for-me/
Last updated: 2026-03-24T22:05:45.000Z
I just came back home and wanted to pixel Ide. Normally I have to force myself to sit down and work. Don't get me wrong, I love it, but it's rarely easy nonetheless. I told you hundreds of times how lazy I am. 

But this one just came. It's not perfect or something outstanding, but it's here. Maybe if I make enough of those silly works, they will start becoming better too? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222258.png)

Once again, starting with eyes. They are just so simple to make and can set a tone for the rest of the pixel. Those are definitely not my best, but this whole work is kind of a speed drawing rather than a high-quality one. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222305.png)

Setting everything up is much easier when I have the solid point in eyes. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222504.png)

It's another day of trying to give Ide a new haircut. This looks cute, but I changed it later. Maybe I will come back to it?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222513.png)

Somehow, no matter how hard I try, she always ends up with almost the same hairstyle. I'm sorry, Ide! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222530.png)

Also, I got so lost with the light. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222542.png)

Because it does not have to look sophisticated, I ended up using a checkerboard pattern. I love how it looks, and it's so satisfying to do.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222612.png)

Maybe I will start giving her hair more color? Like instead of small strips, every part will be a different one. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-24-222634.png)

And just like that. Quick. Simple and super fun. Also, she turned out pretty cute.

I don't have too much to say here. Have fun, you have one life, and it's only yours. It would be sad to lose it trying to please somebody else.
### #75 bad luck
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/75-bad-luck/
Last updated: 2026-05-24T16:53:12.000Z
I know, I'm terribly late, over 2 weeks. I'm sorry.

During the first one, I was hiding. Mostly from myself. There are times when you would rather be someone else... or not be entirely. I'm just like that, but it does not mean I should stop trying. 

The second week was committed to the pixel you see above. It took 3 days and   
14-15 hours of work in total. It was made to celebrate someone without whose help I don't think I would have even survived my first year of this project. Endless acceptance and support, even for my first uncertain steps. And especially one message I still have on my desktop and read every time I feel like giving up.

That's why I had to make this my biggest and most polished pixel yet. After all, this is still my goal: learn how to make great things to thank people who deserve it.

To compensate for the lack of posts, I will try my very best to explain everything on this pixel with details. I feel like this is the time when you can finally really learn something from me. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124423.png)

Yep, the explanation will be that detailed. 

Personally, I really like starting with eyes. They aren't that difficult to make, so they make for a great warmup. Later it's much easier to set the face and rest of the body with this stable point. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124526.png)

The light are dark points are much more important than the pupil. Two important things here. First: change the colors, not just shades. Here for the darker part, I went more into deep blue, and the bottom shade is closer to the green. Second: if something is supposed to look shiny (like eyes), add those darker patches under the lights. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124607.png)

More color jumping. It also allows you to use more saturated and brighter colors. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124625.png)

Those darker dots around the edge are making it look smoother. Nice trick to know.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124728.png)

Adding a totally different color can also lead to more eye-catching results. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124740.png)

Once again, dark around light and the eye is ready.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124801.png)

More details to help me prepare the next part.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124856.png)

Do not be afraid to make temporary placeholders like this. Not everything has to (and will) be perfect.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-124937.png)

Rough coloring. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-125006-1.png)

It's the first real challenge. Making fur look fluffy using only pixels is one hell of a task. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-125059.png)

I just treated the two biggest whiskers? I don't actually know what they are called, as the front one and the other should be behind/under them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-125533.png)

The lower fur is very similar to the upper one, but it's supposed to look much more rough and chaotic. That's why it will end up with many more shades and details in the middle.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-125649-1.png)

As you can see, every part has its own lighting... I'm terrible at imagining 3D shapes, so I just use any lighting system that helps me. Just because I became a little better, it does not mean I'm good at this drawing thingy, ok?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-130401.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-130512.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-131300.png)

Please look at how the number of pixels in the ear outlines stays consistent (on the last picture, of course). It is important to pay attention to it. When you make a line, don't suddenly change the number of pixels that create it. Like on my pixel, there is a line made entirely by using one pixel left and one down, and after that, two pixels down for one right. It's the best way to make lines look smooth. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-131401.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-131625.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-131736.png)

Another random shade... I'm simply spectacular...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-131906.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-132025.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-132252.png)

I was also learning how to make fur on the spot. That's why every part will look a little different. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-132343-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-132444-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-132533.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-132935.png)

Like here: this will be the third and final fur method. First, shades (I don't think I did a fantastic job, but I will try to explain it netherless). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-133326.png)

After that, we add rough edges and some texture to the inside. Here you can make the outline be irregular (you kind of have to, it's supposed to be fluffy after all).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-133346.png)

Some more texture and breaking of the shading lines. I should have to make them mix even more. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-133555.png)

Here, I finally made the shades more consistent. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-134007.png)

Now it's time for the backgrounds. I'm yet to learn any cohesive method of making good-looking snow. Right now I just make the whole ground kinda blue-ish and then add details, like those bushes some darker and lighter patches. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-134035.png)

As always, shades are what keep the illusion alive. Never forget about them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-134123.png)

Now the spring one. The flowers are all the same, just with different colors, by the way. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-134332-2.png)

This cute grass effect was made by adding those lighter strips around the edges. It's not difficult to do, and the results are definitely worth it. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-22-134352.png)

Final spring one. 

Wooh, that was definitely my longest post here. But I'm happy and thankful. All the support I got working on this whole thing is beyond belief. 

Thank you.
### #74 All the pain must go
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/74-all-the-pain-must-go/
Last updated: 2026-03-05T22:11:14.000Z
Before any yapping, I was asked to show this glorious and insanely detailed project I had for this pixel.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-212925.png)

I know, I know. Basically ready to ship.

But now, seriously, I can't stop smiling looking at this piece. Not because it's perfect, but because I have in mind post number 23 here. My first try to make a chibi like this. 

Oh man, it's like 2 totally different people made them, and in a sense it's true. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-212904.png)

No matter how many times I tried, I couldn't make a face outline. I think my lack of 3D imagination is making every shape look flat in my mind. So I started with the eyes (well, one eye and the eyepatch) to set the angle. It worked out surprisingly well.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-212945.png)

After a few adjustments, I was ready to start outlining the hair. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-212956.png)

Yeeee, it didn't go so well.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213004.png)

Another try. I have to remember that everything will be bigger on the right side if the character is facing left, including the hair.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213018.png)

Ok, looks decent, and the hands are back!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213216-1.png)

Making the eye was simple enough. Changing colors, not only shades, is making such a huge difference! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213228.png)

Just some small details to make the face less empty. Once again, the right cheek is bigger than the left one.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213238.png)

Now we can start working on hair. The method is a little different from my usual (not that usually I use any specific methods). We start from two colors, base and the shade. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213300.png)

After adding my love, the glorious light line, we slowly blur the borders between the colors. For this, we are using a different one that fits in between their saturation and lightness level.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213326.png)

It's good to not go overboard, the clusters cannot be too small.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213342.png)

The darker side will have fewer clusters and shades. You can't see all the details in the dark, after all.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213358.png)

I still need to figure out how to make something look fluffy with so little pixels. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213412.png)

Time for the hands! They were half improvised, half made from a reference.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213421.png)

It's not rocket science, just try and error. Change a few pixels -> looks good? -> save, if not, try something different.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-05-213444.png)

The outline of the hands is brownish to not fight with the black outline of the head.

And that's all, it's that simple. And yet, it took me so much time to get to this point.

I can't comprehend that my lazy, inconsistent, absolutely skill-less ass was able to keep this up for so long. I started so low, but that's good. It was the whole point, after all. Even someone like me can learn to do things. 

And if EVEN I can, what the hell can stop you?
### #73.2 The only way
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/73-2-the-only-way/
Last updated: 2026-03-02T21:34:06.000Z
Well, a lot has changed. I couldn't sleep last night thinking how to make this one work. At some point I thought about different Ide pixel, without any outlines, just colors. 

This style suits her, I think. A lot of interchanging colors, smooth connections, and bright contrasts. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212706.png)

My first step was removing all the outlines and details. I was focusing too much on them. 

The next few shots will be here to show how I made the eyes, in case I forgor in the future.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212723-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212729.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212746.png)

I wanted them to stay simple but expressive at the same time. I think the left one went pretty well.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212824.png)

I have to admit - I was just vibe coloring at this point. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212848.png)

A bigger resolution (100x100) allowed me to expand Ides colorful stripes. I wonder if I will be able to do something more cretive with them in the future.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-02-212858.png)

So yea, that's all. 

I'm tired but happy. Even if the last post was a bit hopeless, I'm still trying. 

You don't have to be the best at something to be proud of yourself, remember! It's not about place in the bracket but being the best yourself.

You should be proud of your every try! I still count on you!!!
### #73.1 Endless
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/73-1-endless/
Last updated: 2026-03-01T21:50:20.000Z
It's one of those days it would be so much easier to just stop, give up. I feel like I'm not doing any good. It would be so much easier to just not continue. 

I know it's just my mind playing tricks on me. I already achieved more than I could ever have imagined, and I still have plans for more! But right now, I can't shake off the feeling that I'm only pretending. That everything that Citrusexists is, is a lie.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-182744.png)

Next time I even think about making something diagonally, please hit me with something heavy in the head. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-182756.png)

This is such an utter mess, every hair is going a different way, some are affected by gravity, and some aren't. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-182825.png)

The face got a little slimmer to show that Ide is actually tilting her head, the clothes are purely to help me, orientate. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-182842.png)

Here it finally starts looking like something. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-182907.png)

I had no idea what kind of eyes to do. The round ones were almost impossible tilted. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-182930.png)

In the end, I took inspiration from one of the previous pixels. Square eyes it is.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-183004.png)

They are still not looking as I would like them too, but believe me or not, getting to this point took over 2 hours. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-03-01-183016.png)

There is still a lot of work to do, more of a rough sketch than a finished pixel. I will try to finish her tomorrow, but I felt that if I didn't write about it, I would give up.

Sorry for a short post, but that's how I am right now - falling short.
### #72 Can you see me
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/72-can-you-see-me/
Last updated: 2026-02-25T22:26:48.000Z
This break was uncalled for. First I got sick and spent the whole weekend in bed, ok that happens. But later I got super anxious about what I'm supposed to pixel. In the end, even my recording script broke...

I wanted to Ide, but every time I started, something was awfully odd. I felt empty, like there is nothing in me that I want to show. Even when I tried, the tries were weak, I couldn't put my whole heart into them. The pressure to pixel bigger and better was crushing me.

So here we are, in a typical Citrus fashion: when everything wants me to go bigger, I go even smaller. I haven't touched a 32x32 canvas in a while. Maybe I should start doing those smaller pixels again. It's a good imagination exercise (or at least I think so...) and does not take too much time. 

In the end, it helped. 

You don't have to be bigger and better every day. The line of life is full of jaggies, sometimes a little up, sometimes down. But in the longer run, you are getting better, trust me. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-211555.png)

There won't be too much to learn from this one. If you wonder, "Why the dot in the upper left corner?" - I also have no idea. Without it, my pixel was jumping up all the time without any apparent reason.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-211602.png)

Outline->colors, the usual stuff. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-211612.png)

The different-sized eyes are always a reliable way to show the angle. Works even on tiny canvases like this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-211644.png)

I'm yet to make a happy Ide. I don't know, this half-mad face suits her. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-211952.png)

Also, I promised her some new hairstyles. I guess I have to start searching...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-212003.png)

It's supposed to be a zip-up hoodie with a white shirt beneath, by the way. My skills in making clothes haven't really improved, huh?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-25-212025.png)

I always love doing Ides hair markings. I have no clue from where I got the idea, but I enjoy jumping with the lively, vibrant colors all over her hair.

So that's it for today. Not much, but always a step. 

Be proud of every try, the fact that you tried is the most important.

See you next time, bayaa!
### #71 Congratulations, You're in a Void!
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/71-congratulations-youre-in-a-void/
Last updated: 2026-02-17T21:32:57.000Z
This post will be a little weird... the script I use to capture the pixeling process broke...

So instead of a step-by-step, I will make it a more general (and much shorter) one. 

A bit of mandatory useless yapping. I tried to incorporate lessons from the course. I tried to avoid repeating patterns, use more colors, and place the darker/lighter pixels to smooth out the lines. I still don't feel this pixel is perfect, but I knew what I should search for. 

The hair was made by using the transparency or opacity bar under the color palette. I think changing the shade of every pixel "covered" with hair would give much better results, but the time it would take...

Overall, it was incredibly fun. I'm really starting to pay more attention to colors and how they can make the pixel look smooth. My usual "random spots" is slowly getting replaced with careful study. 

If I had to get point one lesson from this pixel, is to actively mess with the color changing. The shades are incredibly limiting. At first it might be scary and clashing, but the more you add, the less they stand out, as well as make the pixel more clear and interesting to look at.

That's all, see you soon!
### #70 Angels Calling
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/70-angels-calling/
Last updated: 2026-02-25T17:11:41.000Z
After doing pixels for around 1.5 years, maybe it's finally time to learn how you should actually do it. I stumbled across the course by Downvote, the guy who makes the most beautiful pixel animations I have ever seen. 

My feelings are somewhat mixed. On one hand, Citrus likes to do everything his own way. I absolutely hate taking orders or listening to instructions. The Citrus way is to be lost until you know every corner of a place. I have navigation, or even take advice on how I should get somewhere. On the other hand, I really feel like I have to improve, like I'm falling behind. Maybe the course will help me better understand my mistakes and help me get better while there is still time for it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-213346.png)

These four balls are supposed to help me train to recreate different materials. How rough and shiny they are and if they have some kind of pattern. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-213357.png)

The pixeling style is also very different from my usual one. It tries to recreate the substance, based on the number, size, and variety of those little spots called clusters (every group of pixels is a cluster btw). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-213411.png)

It's supposed to be a wooden ball, so I tried to give it the characteristic rings. You can also see that the colors are much more saturated and diversified. Normally I was using only one color and changing the saturation and brightness. But apparently you can achieve better results if you also change the colors themselves. It creates more contrast and lets you use fewer shades.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-214020.png)

Another lesson: if the object is shiny, it not only has the shine on the side but also a darker line under it, as well as the little shine on the other side.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-214041.png)

You can see me struggling to implement all of this at the same time. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-214633.png)

I'm not sure if it looks like wood... maybe I should have added more rings at the top? Or make the one that is there smaller?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-214652.png)

Now my old enemy: ice... Oh man, I didn't miss making ice at all. And this one might be the worst I have ever made. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-214758.png)

Ice is very glossy but rough at the same time (I know it can also be smooth, but I had a rough ball of ice in my mind). That's why there is a lot of shine.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-14-214808.png)

And a big, darker path under it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124444.png)

I think that I absolutely missed with the texture. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124454-1.png)

I tried to make it look reflective, but at last it just ended up looking smooth.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124810.png)

Next I wanted to make the green rubber ball.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124820.png)

Not quite shiny, but incredibly smooth.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124857.png)

That's why I ended up with the small checker box pattern. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124908.png)

The less you mix the colors, less rough objects look (at least that was on course, I hope you remember that I still have 0 idea what I am doing).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124920.png)

Lastly, cement. Just for something extremely rough and not shiny at all.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-124927.png)

It's supposed to be the opposite of the rubber and ice. A big amount of small patches with different colors.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-125127.png)

I went a little too hard on the color mixing here. You cannot see where is the light and where is the dark part.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-125139.png)

I tried to make it more obvious by using more dark colors on one side and lighter on the other. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-15-125145.png)

Added visuals for better presentation.

Yea, it took a while. Both the pixel and the post (two days and at least 5 tries). It's hard, I don't know why. 

I hope you are doing well. I still believe in you!
### #69 It's my try
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/69-its-my-try/
Last updated: 2026-02-05T22:31:18.000Z
This pixel is special. It's the first-ever piece I made entirely on my tablet with a pen. I wanted to start practicing it long ago, and I even tried... like a dozen times, but always stopped after a few lines. It's totally different from pixeling using the mouse. It's much easier to make long lines look good, and things like shading come much more naturally. But loss in precision is huge, and losing easy access to keybinds is slowing down the work a lot.

But in the end I did it. I expected it to come out much worse, even if Ide looks mighty undercooked. Now when I look back on it, I forgot about many details, I was so focused on just pixeling. But, it's just the first try, next will be better. 

Also, funny thing. I was much less stressed about this. It was so chill sitting whenever I wanted. Slowly working. Didn't stress about quality too much. Normally, I don't consider pixeling as something I do to relax. I do enjoy it, but it's always an exercise. However, this time, I was actually just chilling. Maybe because of the change of mindset, perhaps the tablet is just a less stressful medium. We will see. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-213510.png)

There won't be too much to learn from this one, folks. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-213930.png)

Next time I should make the full sketch. But even like this, keeping the right proportions and shapes was surprisingly much easier (don't look too closely at this one, it's not finished yet, ok?). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-213947.png)

Making eyes was strange. I already have muscle memory worked out, I was just staring at the face, wondering how I should even start. Overall it was kind of similar. I made the light orb (the iris in the middle). Later, the darker part around it, white on the left, some shine at the bottom, dark lashes, and done.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214117.png)

Yea, the eyes look totally different. Different sizes and shapes. Normally I can do one and still see the other, but my tablet is so small to work on the eye, I had to zoom only onto it. But this is a problem for future me.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214129.png)

This is much more reliable than just a colorful blob. Next time I will try to give Ide some more elaborate haircut, but it will do for now.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214659.png)

Basic but nice. I still don't know how to change Ides's haircut to make it more distinct. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214757.png)

Longer lines and shading are so much easier and look significantly better. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214808.png)

I want to experiment a little more with this. I feel like with a little practice I can finally start doing much more detailed hair.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214825.png)

Time to work on my nemesis... the clothing. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-214840.png)

Yea, I made the bare minimum. Time was running out, and I was kinda tired, so just made it as simple as I could.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-05-215115-1.png)

The hand was surprisingly hard. On PC I never had much problem with them, but so many little lines using a pen on a small tablet? It's sooo difficult to get it right.

So anyway. I can definitely do better. But it's a decent first try. 

Don't be afraid to try new things. Yes, you might fail, but you will learn and experience. And later you will be able to say "hey, you remember when I tried doing that?? Yep, that was craaazy!!"   
Sounds much better than not remembering this day at all, right?
### #68.2 Citrus and the Bat
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/68-2-citrus-and-the-bat/
Last updated: 2026-02-02T22:05:30.000Z
I know I'm late again, but I really had to gather my mind on what I want to write.

This pixel is so undercooked it's not even funny. I didn't have much time to work on it, so even just by peeking at it, I can find 7 different things that should have been done better and that I could do better right now. It's not limited by my abilities, as usual, but the time.

This leads to my second point. I feel like I'm running out of time. Not only for this project, but generally. I'm terrified that everything will end one day. That all of me will be forgotten, and I will never be able to change anything anymore. 

And it really shows here. I could have done so much more given more time.

But somehow the Bat in question still loved it. And part of me loves it too. When I compare this to my first ever Ekko fanart, so long ago. The 14th post on this site. That was the peak of my abilities back then. Now, I can look at something a hundred times more complex and generally good-looking, and I can still see the flaws. 

My abilities didn't jump. It was not a straight line from there to here. A little over a year and 54 pixels. Some better, many worse. 

But every single one of them was a step. Some were most definitely a slip, some peaks. 

That's the best we can do. Maybe there is no future for us. Maybe tomorrow won't come. But if we tried and made the step, it meant we can welcome the end. It's sad, but it can't change all the steps we made. It gives me some comfort. Knowing that I will be able to look back at my path and choose to take another set, even if in a different direction, even if the last one.

And right now... I'm proud of myself... (yes, I'm crying writing that). I never was. I never cared. Now even if this is stupid and silly and everybody else can do better. I'm proud of every step and that I didn't stop trying, even after so many breaks and stupid decisions and laziness. It was always me. 

*“This I choose to do. If there is a price, this I choose to pay. If it is my death, then I choose to die. Where this takes me, there I choose to go. I choose. This I choose to do.” ― Terry Pratchett*,* Wintersmith*

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-220943.png)

Use. New. Layer. For. Everything!!! It might be confusing at first, and you will find yourself drawing in a wrong one all the time, but it's worth it! The pure flexibility and adaptability of this approach makes everything so much easier. All the layers here: Body, Hands, Hair, Branch, Tree, Background, and the Wings. It saved me so much trouble later, it's insane.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221013-1.png)

See? I want to add ears? No problem! Just hide the hair, put them in another layer and you can do with them whatever you want. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221104.png)

The body looks like a brick? Just rip or hide everything else and make it slimmer.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221125.png)

If you 

If you work on something upside down, you can rotate the canvas using the Sprite menu, it's helpful too. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221219.png)

The only thing that changed on the branch is a shape, shading a little branches. If you remove the line in the middle and make half dark, half light, it produces the illusion of being round.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221308.png)

Some details to the hoodie.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221400.png)

Heres how the tree was made. It's really similar to the stones from the previous pixel. First, lines.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221410.png)

Then, a darker tone for one side and a lighter one for the other.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221424.png)

Repeat. Here I was so short on time I even copied some parts and pasted them higher. It works surprisingly well after a few hand adjustments.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221447.png)

A little Tattle Tail, should have given him some shade on the bottom to make him look more round, but I totally forgot about it. The ears were made using the blur tool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221518.png)

Oh no, where did she go?! Another brilliant example of why layers are so useful. Hair was also made with blur, but I don't really like the effect. If I had more time, I would most likely put some patter in them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221540.png)

I skipped a giant part where I was struggling to think about the correct background. In the end I wanted to have, like, a sunflower field, but ended up with more like sunflower bed.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/02/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-02-01-221608.png)

The grass was also just copied and pasted. 

In the end, it's always just you. 

Thank you for being here, for being part of this. It's all going to be alright in the end, we just have to keep doing what we can to not regret doing nothing when it happens. Whatever happens, you will face it as you.
### #68.1 Larger than fear
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/68-1-larger-than-fear/
Last updated: 2026-01-29T22:08:21.000Z
I know, I know, I know, I'm late!

But not because I was slacking off (ok, a little bit, but not only!). 

I just don't know how the calendar works...

This post will be a weird one. As you can see, there is no art (I guess you can't ever "art" here, but you know what I mean). Instead, I want to talk about one of the reasons for the lack of post, last week and give more insight into the first steps of this incredibly painful process that is: Having too much ambition about the pose you want charatcer on your art to take, and not enough abilities to make them do that. 

So first things first, I had some time to pixel last week... Unfortunately, I accidentally edited a YouTube video...

"But Citrus" I hear you ask, "how can you ACCIDENTALLY make a video???" . Well, my friend asked me the same question, and all I have to say is: one clip at the time. Literally, I just started doing it and didn't stop.

And here's the thing I want to talk about. It was my first time doing an edit like this ever. I didn't watch any tutorials or have any experience in the field. 

When I first loaded the material, I closed the program. Immediately.

"It's stupid, I have never done something like this before, I have no chance, it's too much" 

But after a while I opened it back again, cut one clip, and it turned out to be so awful that I closed it again.

The funniest thing is that I recognized that feeling. The dread of being afraid of failure. It was exactly the same as doing pixel art. 

And then, only because I was familiar with it, I was able to push through it. I actually started enjoying it a lot. 

In the end, it's not the best video out there, but I have seen some people like it. The person I did it for was grateful. I hope I did something good.

What I'm trying to say is: doing stupid shit is not stupid. Somehow making those silly pixels made me more resilient, focused, and even tempered my laziness a little. 

My friend said that he admires that I want to do all of this, but I just do what I think is good. It might be hard, but if I learned anything before starting this project, is that the pain of never trying is much, much worse than the suffering of failure. And there is no chance for success, of course!

So, my friend. Do stupid things. Your stupid things. 

After this yap time for the even weirder part!

Because I'm insane, I dreamed of the art of a character (originally this was supposed to be Ide, but Ekko will have an anniversary and I want to prepare something special. I didn't forget about Ide, I promise!!!) hanging upside down from a tree branch, in phone wallpaper proportions. A little angle would also be nice. To add more spice, I decided that I aim to make it completely from scratch, without any reference. 

I wanted to show how many changes and tries I need before even getting to the sketch. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214621-1.png)

I don't really have an idea if I want to have the full tree or just the branch. So I just decided to start with the main object of interest that will (I think) determine the whole pixel. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214637-1.png)

Things are going to be moving all over the place, prepare for that. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214713.png)

At that point, I didn't even think about keeping correct proportions or distances. Working with an angle like this is already way past my comprehension limits.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214734.png)

Ok, it starts to look like something. But I still felt like the angle of the body is not correct. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214749.png)

Yep, it looks weird. The body and the branch are not aligned at all. Or maybe they are? My 3D imagination is absolutely dismal. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214815.png)

So here's my genius idea. Just put the lines so I will have something to reference. Lines are, of course, another layer. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214830.png)

Yea, I made a lot of them. I thought they would help me. Look, I even started doing both hands and the face aligned with them. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-214953.png)

I got up to this point, only to realize... Something is not right. The body looks more like a leaf floating in the wind than a human (or Bat) hanging down.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-215038.png)

So I scrapped all of it and started all again. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-215553.png)

Decided that the lines aren't really helpful. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-215607.png)

Slowly getting there. I'm not showing every change, of course, but every step forward, was preceded with 4 steps backward.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-29-215639.png)

That's how it ended. I only added color so it won't look so terrible on the page.

I'm fully aware how little there are chances of me doing this art the way I want. But I have to try. If not this, the next one will be closer to my vision.

Thank you for reading this incredibly long (I think my longest ever) and weird post. I hope you are doing well, or at least decently. 

Don't give up. Do your sillies, so you don't have to regret not doing them later.

See you, baaah.
### #67.2 Sold Out
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/67-2-sold-out/
Last updated: 2026-01-23T22:35:57.000Z
Yea, some last-minute changes happen, and you can definitely see it. But I think it's ok, overall. I think it's my first time doing (almost) full body + background, and I really like it. They can really complement each other. 

I also have this weird feeling in me... like hope? Rather delusion, but still something. That maybe, one day, if I keep going... I will be able to do something good-looking. 

 This might sound silly, but up to this point my only thought was to reach the "not absolutely eye-ruining" level. I don't know if we are here yet, but we can try. 

Just this mindset, that I have to try again and again and again, is kindaaaaaa, idk? Soothing? Calming? 

After all, my mission is not to show my greatness but to share my weakness. And it seems possible. 

Having people cheering on me is also so crazy... 

At the same time, I don't want to disappoint them. I really desire to give to people. Either by doing pixels for them, sharing my story, or just saying that they are doing great, despite it not being the best time of their lives. 

Many are stronger than one, right?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-231823.png)

That's how the planning of the background started. I knew I wanted to make Maki (the girl in the foreground) be on the higher elevation road, with something below, to imitate the mountains feeling. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-231852.png)

For the love of everything that is dear to you, please use layers! EVERYWHERE! They make the whole process so much easier and smoother, everything can be placed wherever you want, without colliding with anything else. You can test, you can try, you can sketch. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-231918.png)

Because of the different method I'm using now, I can show you whatever you want on the pixel, so I will try to capture the places that are changing, and the Preview will always have the full pixel for reference.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-231934.png)

So that's how I made rocks. Shadne from the one side, lighter part in the middle.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-231953.png)

And the shiny part on top of the gray, lighter segment. Also, having the black outline to then change it is also incredibly handy.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-232027.png)

Grass... scary.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-232037.png)

Yep, I just made a few shapes and copied them, with minimal modifications. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-232051.png)

And it looks good enough for the time I had. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-232101.png)

The angles are all over the place. I don't know if the field should be more vertical or horizontal or the same as the road? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-23-232135.png)

Both the field and the grass below are made once again by copying and pasting. It might be cheap, but it saves a lot of time and nerves. I'm not really happy with the field, tho.

If I hadn't put off pixeling this for so long, I might have been able to make it a little bit better, but ugh. We do what we can, right?

Don't be too harsh on yourself if you can't realize some plan of yours. Sometimes you just can't, and we have to live with that. 

But don't stop dreaming. Plan, hope, and fight. Live while you can, the best that you can. 

Thank you for still being on this journey with me, I believe in you!

See ya!
### #67.1 Impossible
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/67-1-impossible/
Last updated: 2026-01-18T21:40:59.000Z
Yes, it is absolutely impossible that the pixel above was made by me. Even with pose copied from another art. This is more than I even imagined working on.

I guess I figured it out. The only thing that I needed to become better was listening to emo rock music...

Seriously, how did it happen...? I sat down to this pixel knowing that I will fail. That it's absolutely impossible for me. Almost full body? In a dynamic pose? With detailed clothing? I barely remember how many fingers humans have (21). How the hell did it happen.

What's funny is, doing this, I remembered the very early mountain pixel. I had exactly the same feeling: it's impossible, why am I even trying... 

I don't want to overshoot this, but maybe... things are impossible only because we know they are? 

*Omg Citrus what to write, what to write*

I'm just sitting here, doing my thing. That's all. It looks like, if you just keep doing what you believe in, nothing is impossible.

Just do what you think is good. Fuck the rest. Do your own thing. Imperfectly. Badly. Full of mistakes. But yours. Don't let anyone or anything make you change your way because "it's impossibe"

I'm sorry if it's not the most inspiring or brilliant, but that's what I have to say. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212136.png)

It turned out people who first sketch before drawing are into something. Once again I started with the hand. It seems like a good choice. You can compare everything to the hand. How big are the head, torso, and legs.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212247.png)

Yea... it was my first time pixeling something so... ekhm ekhm... 3D too. But it's on par with the official reference, and I'm 120% sure the person I'm making it for will appreciate it. That's my goal, isn't it...?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212323.png)

I think it's best to have a full body like this before adding any modifications, like clothes. Now, you can add anything you want and check if it looks good. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212434.png)

The clothes need their own sketch, preferably in another layer. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212524.png)

After I finished the black outline, I started adding colors. Just bucketing everything in one hue, the shading will come later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212542.png)

After all basic elements are in place, it's time for the details.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212902.png)

A little shading, eyes, and the collar. One after another. Step by step.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-212929.png)

It always stuns me how much the simple shade adds. It goes from flat, boring,   
two-dimensional to this. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-213046.png)

It's all just darker and lighter pixels. Nothing to be afraid of. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-213118.png)

Another 2D object that we will soon turn 3D by confusing our brain.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-213137.png)

See? It's slowly gaining another dimension. Just a light and a dark part.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-213159.png)

How about we add one more?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-18-213218.png)

Still a work in progress. I wanted to make one post about all of this art. But it's taking waaay to long.

It's still not the most energetic post. I'm still tired. Before I started working on this on Saturday, I spent half a day just lying in my bed, doing nothing. I was ready to drop this as a stupid idea. It wore me out even more. But you know what? I'm positive. Even more, I'm happy. I broke my own limitations. Done something absolutely impossible. It feels great, proving myself wrong. I'm somehow... hopeful? A little less scared. Maybe, even start to believe that we may do something truly exceptional, one day. I will try. That's the best thing I can do.

You know what? How do you know that you will not succeed? What if one in a million really happens 9 out of 10 times? What if this is the time we would make something amazing, incredible, unparalleled? And you just didn't because you didn't believe you could.

It's ok. You don't have to believe. Believing is hard in this world. But you still should try. Nobody else is going to try for you. You have to.

I believe. I believe that if you try enough times, you will reach your goals.
### #66 Waste My Time
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/66-waste-my-time/
Last updated: 2026-01-16T22:00:28.000Z
At this point, I hope that me showing up means anything. There isn't much more I can do. 

I really want to make something large, astonishing, and gorgeous for a person who deserves it. But it feels like it's absolutely impossible. Why is it that people who deserve a star for the skies end up with nothing? I just want to make them feel appreciated and loved... it's not like I'm asking for money and fame for myself.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222029.png)

I think this shape stops being optimal. I should try to prepare some outlines for the hairstyle from the very beginning. Later it's difficult to incorporate more complicated ones into the design.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222113.png)

It's a copy of another design. I tried to make something original, but well...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222144.png)

It was my attempt to give Ide a hairstyle that has been stuck in my head for quite some time. It didn't go very well as you can see.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222158.png)

So instead I went with the same design as in the original. Literaly tried recreating it 1 to 1\. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222225.png)

Yea, you can see it's a totally different level than me.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222249.png)

It looked just weird. I don't really know why. Maybe the face is too small?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222358.png)

So I just cut it to more usual one. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222412.png)

The neck is the only interesting part of this pixel. I might be able to use an arrangement like this more often.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222426.png)

Keeping the right angle is the key.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222439.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222456.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222515-1.png)

Making hoodies like this is surprisingly easy. Just these three steps and you have a decent-looking clothes for your character.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-16-222543.png)

Finished.

I'm sorry if the recent posts seem even worse than usual. I don't know why, but I feel terrible. That was the promise, you will see everything. Not only glory and successes, but also boring, sad everyday Citrus. 

But I'm still here. And if you are too, then I'm proud of you for getting this far. It will get better, eventually. You will shine again.

Thank you.
### #65 The Venom
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/65-the-venom/
Last updated: 2026-01-11T20:36:30.000Z
This is a bare minimum post. I was so close to just giving up and making another "break". But I know how hard it is to come back.

For the last week or so, I feel like I can't do anything. Like some invisible weight is put on my shoulders. Going to the kitchen to get something to drink suddenly becomes a journey not worth taking. How fcking lazy can I be, huh!? I should be rocking and kicking. Instead, I'm lying down in bed, not even reading or at least planning what I will do next!!! I'm not even tired. I don't want to rest, just lay down all day and wait... I don't even know for what. Just press the skip button on my life.

But at the same time, I feel like I'm running out of it: the time. Not even my time, just time to spend with people, time to do things, to have any impact on this world. 

So if the quality is lacking even more than usual, I'm sorry. I wish I could say, I'm doing my best, but I'm barely doing anything...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-201945.png)

This is another full-body training. Just placing Ide into a pose somebody else already created. It's blowing my mind how people can plan a drawing like this. The only thing left for me is hoping that after copying enough times, I will be able to start doing my own. 

I tried many starting points. The most instinctive one is, of course, the head. But it didn't work out very well. I feel like I don't know head-to-body ratios to plan based on such a small and placed-right-on-top element.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-202038.png)

So naturally, my second thought was legs. "Legs should be easy, they are just straight lines". Well, they weren't easy at all. Always too big and taking half of the pixel or too small and looking stupid. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-202612.png)

So I decided that if starting from any of the edge elements doesn't work, I should start with the middle. Like hand and torso. I have no idea if it's the correct approach, or how real artists deal with it, I'm just reporting what I am doing.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203014-1.png)

I still can't grab this clothing thing. I'm doing something wrong, but what? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203155.png)

Yes. The head is too small. You are correct. And you want to know the secret? It's already the fixed version. At some point, Ide could have ended with a mouth at best.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203229.png)

This is a kind of unusual method of doing hair for me. Most of the time, I just do a green stain and then sculpt from it, but "planned" hair can look much better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203256.png)

Looks decent, even if I had to cut off half of her leg. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203306.png)

Don't think too hard about the shadows here. They are totally random. I told you that it's the bare minimum pixel.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203321.png)

This type of boot is surprisingly easy to pixel. Just a white line, color, keep the general shape, and you will be fine.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/Zrzut-ekranu-2026-01-11-203339.png)

Finished piece. I'm sorry if it's not as good as it should be. I want to become better, to make nice arts for people that deserve it, but I'm so damn lazy. At least you can be sure that you can do it. If my lazy ass is able to do something like that, I can't even imagine how awesome things you can create.

Somehow the weight seems a little lighter after writing all of this. Maybe venting helps a little. 

So keep your finger for no more unplanned breaks, and see you on the next one.
### #63.3 Try, Kid, Try
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/63-3-try-kid-try/
Last updated: 2026-01-11T19:50:14.000Z
This is the last post of the cursor trilogy. The shortest one too, probably. We already have the base ready and animated, now the only thing left is adding all those silly variations. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h45m27s937.png)

Most of the add-ons I used are pretty common. First, I'm lazy. Second, what type of cursor is showing has to be clear. It does not mean you can't go bonkers if you have some great ideas!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h46m29s731.png)

The question mark was done by simply shrinking and expanding it with the Marquee Tool. Maybe it's not the most professional approach, and you could make better-looking animation by changing it pixel by pixel, but I was kinda on a time limit, and it looks good enough.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h48m40s595.png)

The keyboard one is my favorite and simple to make. **Make sure you have hands in a second layer,** and move them up and down. To make it look better, make one hand a frame or two delayed after the other. I made the movement much too fast again: 6 frames is more than enough for such a small movement. **If you want to use more frames, use double or even triple frames for every pixel of movement.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h52m44s933.png)

Here, I cut off the hands but saved them just in case (I'm showing the epathsite that making something like this is a creative process, your vision changes as you go, and it's smart to keep as many possibilities open as you can). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h53m55s905.png)

The Bucket (yes, capital B) is, of course, in a different layer than the head. Even if, in the end, they move together, it was much easier to pixel and adjust.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h56m33s396.png)

That's how the animation was made, just moving parts up and filling it. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h57m38s981.png)

The writing one is also self-explanatory. Moving parts in a different layer (I know on screen it's in the same, I'm terrible at using my own advice, and believe me, it was a pain in the ass) and movement left and right.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h59m55s540.png)

Here, I was just roughly picking the spot where the last "light zone" ended and stating the new one from there. Once again: it's going too fast! Less frames, Citrus, less frames!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-19h00m14s782.png)

"The angy" is just one L copied and rotated and later moved, all using the Marquee Tool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-19h00m42s180.png)

The colors yellow and brown were placeholders, for some reason I could not figure out what color I should use.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-19h01m03s719.png)

The background is simply one 64x64 pixel, copied 9 times on a 256x256 canvas. Remember that pixels scale by fours, not by twos. 

See? It's not that hard! A little bit of self-loathing and rage, and you will easily make your own cursor with whoever you want. 

As a bonus tip, for converting GIFs into cursors, I used Greenfish Icon Editor. It allows to use 64x64 canvases without destroying the quality. Windows automatically tries to downscale every cursor to 32x32, but if you change the cursor size in settings to 2 or 200% it should work just fine. 

Thank you for reading all of this. I hope you are doing great in this new year. Maybe this will be the year when I will be able to finally keep the proper posting schedule... who am I kidding... that's impossible.
### #64 No regrets
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/64-no-regrets/
Last updated: 2026-01-11T19:50:08.000Z
Sorry for breaking the post order, there is one more about cursor incoming, but I really want my first pixel of the year to be Ide. 

So, new year, huh? I know I'm a little late, could have prepared something beforehand, but I don't really like the idea of scheduling the posts. 

Anyway, I can't believe I'm still here... my second year as CitrusExists. When I was starting, I didn't even expect to last till the last New Year's Eve. But somehow, here we are. 

It wasn't an easy year, with plenty of breaks, doubts, and crashouts. But also laughs and goals reached. I hope I did alright, that my support meant something.

If you are still here, you did good. Still trying after all this time and hardships is a feat on its own. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2026-01-04-20h51m16s385.png)

This is kind of a wild pixel. I had an idea for some time, but not the clear image, so there was a lot of experimentation.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2026-01-04-21h13m58s640.png)

It's incredibly fun to just think about something you find cute and create it. It was kinda one of my dreams when I was staring. Now I really can. Even if not at the level I want to, it's still wonderful.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2026-01-04-21h14m04s768.png)

Ides hair changes as always. I don't think her design will ever be permanent.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2026-01-04-21h14m41s448.png)

Yes! The hand is in the second layer! Are you proud of me? I have learned!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2026/01/vlcsnap-2026-01-04-21h15m44s895.png)

She might not look like it, but she is happy that she got invited to the party. 

Thank you for sticking with me this year. I will do better, that's my only New Year's resolution.
### #63.2 Black hole
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/63-2-black-hole/
Last updated: 2026-01-11T19:50:03.000Z
I wonder if anyone will ever guess how I'm naming these posts.

No yapping on this one, straight to business.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h27m08s368.png)

Animating is just the art of placing small changes into the pixel. There is possibly some "correct" way of using the right amount of frames and giving them a certain length. As you probably guessed, I don't know them, so the number of frames is random (I literally was adding more until I had enough to animate what I wanted), and the length was set by trial and error (here every frame is 0.4 seconds long).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h27m12s406.png)

I was using mostly the Marquee Tool (the very top one) to move small elements, pixel by pixel, every frame. Writing this now, I think it's not necessary to move only one pixel at a time, soon you will see.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h35m05s845.png)

A small but important change happened here. I realized that I had to create the new arm position for every hard movement. Because of the nature of the chibi, it looked really weird, like the whole body was shaking. Instead, I made the whole body one "block" and didn't animate it at all. It saved sooooo much time, believe me. 

**Also, put the parts that you want to animate in a different layer.** Here, hands are in layer 2, and it made all the animation process much easier.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h39m09s808.png)

Here is another tip that I cannot overvalue. **YOU CAN MOVE ELEMENTS ON MANY DIFFERENT LAYERS AND FRAMES AT ONCE!!!. To do this: choose the Marquee Tool, mark the part that you want to move, and then, pressing shift, choose which frames you would like to move. If you want to move only elements from layer 2, choose only the white dots from this layer.** 

I'm putting so much pressure on this because on my last cursor I was moving EVERY SINGLE FRAME ONE BY ONE. It was not only incredibly time-consuming but also infuriating.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h39m36s176.png)

The flaps and head animations were made by simply moving parts up and down and filling the gaps. Starting, I was overthinking this immensely, trying to find the perfect place to move. But in the end, on a 64x64 canvas, movement is so minimal, it's barely noticeable.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h40m05s404.png)

In fact, there are 7 moving parts in the head animation. Left hair string (on the bottom), left flap, part of the head (in the picture above), top of the head, the band, and the right flap and right hair string.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h40m16s750-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h40m29s861.png)

Just like that, move the part a little, and fill the gaps.

The important part is that they **move in a sequence** or at least not every single part at the same time. That makes the illusion of "going" up and down, instead of teleporting into the new position. 

If I were to change something now: 

Use fewer frames on the hand movement, 14 is way too much. 

Bigger moves with the head parts, but much longer frame length, right now the animation is very "jumpy". Maybe slowing down the animation would make it look better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h40m44s061.png)

Now the eyes. My first instinct was the same as with the hands: one pixel, one frame. I made it all the way through, only to realize that it looks terrible. Now there is only an open and closed position and 3 in between them. Eye movement is also made on double frames: every position uses 2 frames out of 14 and leftovers are used to keep the eyes open for a little. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/Zrzut-ekranu-2025-12-29-233741.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h40m58s290.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h41m02s091.png)

This is the entirety of the blinking movement, and it still looks nice and smooth. Really, 14 frames is beyond what's necessary.

And this is all the animation on the base character. From now on, we will only add some cosmetic elements using this one as a base (I literally have the file containing it named "base").

Thank you for reading, and see you next time!
### #63.1 Treasure
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/63-1-treasure/
Last updated: 2025-12-26T21:36:17.000Z
Ok, it wasn't an abandonment, it was straight-up hibernation. I was sleeping for 14-18 hours a day... I don't know why... it's normal, right? RIGHT???

After that, Christmas, and then I started working on this cursor, all days just on it... I'm sorry, I should really improve my work ethics...

This is my second cursor I was working on, so this time I had some experience. It's still not great... or good... or average...

But this time I want to make this post as informative and detailed as I can. Show my thought processes, mistakes, and shortcuts. 

I have recorded over 5 hours, but it was only active work (not even all of it). I spent at least double that on designing, troubleshooting, and staring blankly into the screen intending to delete it all. It was draining both physically and mentally. I'm probably just mentally weak, so don't worry about it, but as always, I promised to be honest. 

Constant stream of thoughts: "they will hate it", "it's not good, enough", "you will only hurt them by providing something so pathetic", "they deserve better"

And you know what? It's all probably true. But what else can I do? Comeback to not doing anything? Waiting for the *perfect opportunity*, when will I come out of the shadows and save the day? Like this will ever happen. I can't make decent art, but somehow I will be able to do that? That's stupid.

If this is out of the question, there is only one option left. Accept that I'm me. I will fuck up, hurt, underdeliver. But nobody else can do those things for me. I can hide in shame... or do it the Citrus way: the way that this site was always going.

We are taking our shame, our mistakes, imperfections and waving them like a flag. Our cries are our anthem. We will stand.

But enough of that nonsense, let's get to work.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h11m42s964.png)

This set was made on a 64x64 canvas. Bigger resolution allows more details, but also has its own problems. Something I wish I knew sooner. Windows has 32x32 cursors as a baseline. **And will butcher anything bigger UNLESS you will change the size of the cursor in the settings.** It took me 2 hours of tilting my ass off to discover that. Be aware of that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h13m07s638.png)

I don't know if making the square cursors is just a tradition or if it has any real advantages. They look nice, and it's an elegant way of making a chibi.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h13m32s630.png)

Clothing was a problem for me, as always. I knew that hands would look more or less like this, so I made them for a reference point.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h18m04s015.png)

I wanted to be as close to a source material as possible, but sometimes it's not possible for pixel art. Simplicity really is your best friend. It's cool when everything is detailed, but there are times when you just have to be minimalistic and make sure that people will look somewhere else. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h23m21s417.png)

The head isn't that big for no reason, the clothing is just a background for it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h23m29s048-1.png)

Just a bunch of tricks we already know, but I said that this post will be very precise. So for everyone who does not know her yet, I present my love: the light line!!! I'm not joking, it changes sooooo much.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h23m44s757-2.png)

Next, the vertical lines, darker at the bottom.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h24m09s588-1.png)

And the outline. See? In 3 simple steps we went from plain spot to decent-looking hair. By the way, **if you are using Aseprite like me, you can auto-outline things using shift+o.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h25m05s867.png)

A little weight loss. It's another plus for simple designs, they are much easier to move and modify.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-26-18h25m43s803.png)

This is the point where I started animating. Don't pay too much attention to the cursor. I didn't have a clear vision for this part. It's best if you have the animated parts ready because changing them later is a pain.

Ok, I think I will stop here for now. We have a character ready to animate, and our first doubt if we can even finish this project. Maybe we can't, who knows? We can only try our best, because we are the only one us doing it... I don't know if it makes any sense. Everything you do is unique and amazing because you are. So we are not in competition with anyone else, only ourselves.

Just do your best. Citrus believes in you.
### #62 Sunday Morning
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/62-sunday-morning/
Last updated: 2025-12-14T21:46:46.000Z
Fun, chill, lazy. Learning doesn't always have to be hard. Just like life.

This post is like this because I didn't want to make a week-long break but didn't really have the energy for some big study. Me and my friedos took a transporting job this Friday. We were transporting booze straight into our stomachs. It counts, it was incredibly taxing.

Also, I think having fun is just an important part of training. I like having fun with my pixels. Suffering is not the only way to the stars, we have to accept the troubles, but what's the point if we don't enjoy it from time to time?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-14-22h23m23s926.png)

After all this time, I still suck at shapes... I don't know if I should laugh or cry.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-14-22h23m30s541.png)

The simplicities of setups. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-14-22h23m33s963.png)

I don't think I have ever made a pixel of a vial like this. Always wanted to, and I remember a few tries, but never got too far. Look at me go past Citrus! This whole thing took less than 20 minutes, we really made it... Talking to the past version of myself might not be the best sign, but being insane is probably the smallest of my problems. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-14-22h23m43s653.png)

Illusion of light has so much on our brains, it's honestly insane.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-14-22h23m48s830.png)

The bottom looks so flat and dull... fortunately, we know how to fix it. Time for some random crap!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-14-22h24m01s314.png)

Not the prettiest, most complex, or noteworthy. If I took a little more, I could make it much better. But I don't have to. I can enjoy it as it is.

And you should, too! Cherish your work, even if it's not perfect. If you had fun, it was worth doing it.

Thank you for reading such a silly post, see you next time!
### #61 Not waiting
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/61-not-waiting/
Last updated: 2025-12-07T20:49:07.000Z
Ok, this was an experience...

I felt like this in the early days when I was literally copying someone's work 1 to 1 (not that I'm much better now, I would say it changed to 1 to 3). Pixeling at an angle like this AND lying down? Full body? 

Poor Ide looks confused, and I'm a hundred times more. 

But I'm happy that I finished it, in through the pain and sweat, I got to the end. 

Next time it will be a little easier, and a little more the time after that, and a little more later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h50m46s565.png)

So generally... it sucked. I felt like I had no idea what a human looks like. The whole process was one giant trial-and-error experiment, even with the example right before my eyes! Do people really just draw someone else like that, without thinking? Do they spend their days memorizing every possible position the human body can take?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h51m07s158.png)

After deciding that I will not recreate the sketch anyway, I just started from the basics I knew... or at least I thought I knew how. This angle was absolutely killing me! Sorry, I don't have any advice, the best I could do was to try again and again.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h51m25s886.png)

The face was more or less done. I was sure the skirt will be easier... it's just one color. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h51m41s787.png)

It's really difficult to show how many little changes I was doing. Moreover, I think if I were to do the same art again, I would make totally different mistakes. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h52m42s685-1.png)

Somehow, the hand wasn't so difficult. I didn't have to count pixels on the original to make it, so I count it as a win.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h53m34s887.png)

Full-body checkpoint. I had to totally change the shape of the shirt again. Thank God it's so big and simple, I have no idea how I would fix something more detailed.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h53m46s722.png)

Another complete change, this time legs. After modifying the shape of the shirt, there was not enough place for legs... I got hit by the literal butterfly effect.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h54m00s323.png)

After next complete rework (to make place for the shorts), the legs got too thin.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h54m33s265.png)

I tried to save as much as I could in this dire situation. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h54m42s260.png)

Time to fight with the face once more! I really like this hairstyle, even if it would be incredibly hard to draw it, when the character is standing (I think... how many times do I have to remind that I have no idea what I am doing???)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-07-20h55m31s307.png)

The background makes it look 3 times better. Generally, I'm happy that I tried. That's how we learn, by trying, copying, failing. 

Thank you for reading! Until next time!
### #60 Last one trying
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/692dda29d1afd400010b919b/
Last updated: 2025-12-06T21:31:30.000Z
This isn't an art post, btw: go away

I was really discouraged today. I often see arts for people, so much better than whatever I'm capable of doing, no matter how I would try. Even more with captions like: "just a sketch" or "I'm only starting"

Don't get me wrong, I'm not jealous or mad that there are people better than me. I'm sure they had to put in an insane amount of work to get this far... I'm just afraid that I will never be able to even get close. 

That I don't have it in me to work tirelessly days and nights, never stopping, always trying. That I will never be good enough.

I was ready to write off this week. But I know I would be even more mad at myself for stopping again.

So, here we are. Trying again. I guess it's the best we can do. Try over and over again... hoping that it will work out in the end.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-06-22h08m56s230.png)

This one is really quick (literally 20 minutes of recording), so not much to show.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-06-22h09m07s379.png)

It's funny how placement of the elements can change how we see the face: here Ide looks sad, but on the finished piece, she is more annoyed or offended.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-06-22h09m20s394.png)

All it took was lifting the eyes and mouth up. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/12/vlcsnap-2025-12-06-22h09m41s810.png)

Doing this brought me joy, really. Trying feels a little better than drowning in doubts. I'm happy that I can make Ide so easily, a year ago I could not even imagine doing a piece like this.

We can keep trying, together. Maybe we will never reach the top, but it's still better than never standing up. 

Please try, I know you have strengh for one more.
### #59 I have learned something!
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/59-i-have-learned-something/
Last updated: 2025-11-30T22:05:46.000Z
Even writing this post, I can't believe the picture at the top was made by me.

Don't get me wrong, it's not perfect, probably not even good, barely passable. But for me? I remember my first art of Ekko (*check: pixel above*), my 14th post here. I thought that was the peak of my abilities, that I will never be able to do anything better. But look at this! 

I guess, whoever is praying for my downfall, must pray a little harder. More breaks than arts, mistakes than successes, meltdowns than good days, but I'm still here.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h10m55s644.png)

Getting to this shape used to take me so long... now it comes natural, without thinking. At this point, I'm already planning next steps, eyes, hairstyle, pose.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h11m42s997.png)

This is the most reliable method of making eyes for me. Dark part at the top, light on the bottom with even lighter spot in the middle and some shining in the dark part. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h12m10s590.png)

You might not believe, but I actually listened to my own advice. The hand is on the different layer than a face! Please do that! I'm begging you! It saved me so much trouble later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h12m53s972.png)

It's crazy how much expression changes when you add more elements. Before the right eye looked dull, uninterested. Now it's giving playful vibes (I might also be hallucinating, who knows?).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h13m25s540.png)

The ears got a little more 3D thanks to the thicker and darker left side and the shadow next to it. Neat little detail.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h13m34s925.png)

I went beyond and searched the web, how to make things look fluffy. I had very little pixels to work with, so the effect isn't too great, but the **general idea is to make the light round spot at the middle and darker shades at the edges while keeping the lines longer.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h14m24s538.png)

A little fix to the hair, general rounding and clearing.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h16m15s752-1.png)

Eyes on the right site, class! Hair don't have to be smooth, adding some messy parts can make the pixel look more alive.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h16m55s685-1.png)

My love, one and only, star in the night sky: light line! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h18m13s264.png)

The hand is a surprisingly fun thing to pixel. I was sure it will take me an hour, but I got it after only a few tries.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h18m32s915.png)

I don't really know how to explain that... make a darker spot in the middle, choose a place for fingers to meet and make lines from there. The right shading makes all the difference.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-30-22h19m06s364.png)

I was fighting with the arm for over 30 minutes, but I hope the rest of the pixel will cover how weird it looks. 

Wow, that was an experience. Two and a half hours of recording, not counting breaks to think and plan the next steps and research. 

But I did it! And you can too! The progress might feel insignificant, but that's ok, in some time, you will look at yourself and be proud of how war you have come! I believe!!!!
### #58 Make it look
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/make-it-look/
Last updated: 2025-11-30T21:20:26.000Z
Today, we are proud.

I didn't feel like pixeling at all. I was absolutely sure this is going to be a catastrophe. But I sat down anyway and did what I could.

And she turned out really nicely if I can say.

I hope you don't struggle as much as I do, the chance that you are as lazy as me are really slim, but I hope this will help you a little.

The whole art is a really big thing, a lot of elements, and every single can come out wrong.

It's often intimidating, makes me feel like I can't even start.

What kinda works for me is thinking only about one small part at the time. Chopping the giant, impossible project into little doable parts.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h21m52s038.png)

Like almost every piece, I started with the rough texture, just to have some canvas to place things onto.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h23m44s616.png)

But, here's my first small element, one eye. I can make one eye, right? It's that hard.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h23m54s158.png)

By the way, I feel like, I'm getting more comfortable with Ides color pallet. Especially the yellow comes much easier.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h24m03s250.png)

One eye always looks weird. I think we got programmed to expect more. Don't worry, it will look much better after adding another one.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h24m44s902.png)

I got used to drawing the upper part first to kinda mark the boundaries of the eyeball. I have no idea if this habit is correct, but helps me a lot.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h25m13s619.png)

Together they look nice and really helps with setting the perspective. One smaller than the other and slightly going onto hair, makes all the difference.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h26m12s293-1.png)

We are getting somewhere.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h26m33s274.png)

This hair making method is much simpler, than the one I'm used to. Use thicker lines to show the hairstyle, and minimal shading.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h26m40s217.png)

The hair are the second most important things when it comes to the perspective (don't quote me on that, I have no idea what am I doing, you remember?). Fortunately, it's much easier to shape than the face.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h27m08s933-1.png)

Right shapes, minimal shading at the ends. The shade on the top of the face is crucial, don't ask me why, but it saves the pixel from looking flat.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-27-21h27m39s141.png)

A little haircut and my favorite colorful strips, and she is ready! 

See? Step by step and we can topple the empires!

Also, as a side note. After OVER A YEAR, I noticed that for the entire time there was a black bar at the bottom of the recordings... my stupid is endless...

Anyways, thanks for reading. It was a really fun art and a great experience. Remember, don't get overwhelmed, you can do it! In your own pace, your own way, but surely you can!
### #57 Let it
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/57-let-it/
Last updated: 2025-11-30T21:20:19.000Z
This one looks so silly that I'm not even sad, that it looks so terrible.

The scuff is strong here. First, it was based on a sketch I made on my tablet. Good news: I remembered to record it! Bad news: the video got corrupted, and it shows basically nothing... of to a great start.

So the "art" part of this post is going to be even more lackluster than usual. 

Quick Citrus disclaimer: recently I have an opportunity to watch someone learn something new. It's a weirdly fun experience and quite enjoyable. 

I'm sharing it with you because when I learn, I always feel like people will get mad at me for trying, like I should already be good or never start.

But trying new things is really cool! Watching someone grow and learn is fun and brings a lot of joy. So don't be afraid to learn and to share it! 

Also, 90% of the times you are much better than you think you are, your tries are not as awful as you think. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h03m14s630.png)

This is the first screen that I can show. The whole sketching thing really helps in some places, but it don't solve problems that come with an awful sketch. I guess it's something you start to see with an experience. For example, here, the head is waaay too long. I only realized that after I finished making the eyes...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h03m31s698.png)

I have never had high hopes for this one. Not every try has to be successful, sometimes you just do the best 4/10 (more like 2/20 in my case) you can and leave. And that's ok. That's what trying is all about.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h03m38s656.png)

Tried to add some cute little detail with the plus and minus in the eyes, but I don't they are visible enough + the piece it's too great anyway. Maybe I will use it in a different art?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h03m44s779.png)

Not the best one I made, but it took me no time, so I count that as a win! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h04m02s124.png)

Working with yellow is much harder. The "dark yellow" looks weird for me, like from a totally different pallet. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h04m59s409.png)

Nothing usual, but solid for me. I was able to make them quickly and efficiently, hope this will leave me more to work on other things... like everything else that is lacking.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h05m30s424.png)

Also, if you wonder why the shape of the head is the way it is: it was supposed to be a little tilted. No matter how many times I try, all of my characters just stare right into your soul. The part of the creator is in his every art I guess.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-22-20h06m20s065.png)

At that point, I wasn't even bothered with making the hair properly. That's the beauty of Ide, I can try as hard or as little as my current strength allows.

Thank you for reading. I have to admit, I'm happy for this post. Because it was a flop. But I tried, and will try again. Eventually I will get it.

And you will too! I believe in you and see you next time!
### #56 Is yet to come
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/is-yet-to-come/
Last updated: 2025-11-19T18:27:02.000Z
Henlo! 

You didn't expect to see me so soon, didn't ya?

The new face you see over the title is our new companion: Ide.

She is here to help me with a giant, but silly problem. I don't have anyone to draw, who I don't love and respect. Whenever I why trying something new, I felt like I'm doing injustice to the amazing design, and personality, of that person. The previous post is the best example.

So I decided, that I need someone new, without the baggage of resembling someone else. Someone who is no one (yet!).

That's the meaning of her name, btw. I don't expect anyone to get why. It's a double pun only a twisted mind like mine could think of, so don't worry about it.

Ides design is purposefully simple, and most likely will change, from piece to piece. She is here to help me train, after all. I hope she will be able to present her in a million different styles, techniques, cloths and poses!

If you are struggling at your path too, maybe some change can be beneficial. A little detour from the usual hardship might give you a new perspective, even teach you something. Why not try?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h05m28s838.png)

I had a design like this in mind. Not entirely, but I loved the idea of very green, almost white hair, with colorful (citrus coded) stripes in them. I'm still not sold on the exact tone, but that's the beauty of this idea, I can try everything. And learn something with each try. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h05m46s032.png)

Different color eyes were also planned from the very beginning. I think they look neat and a little unsettling, exactly how I wanted her to look.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h06m07s218.png)

I experimented with both, different eye shapes and lash colors, having this much agency over a character design, is both exciting and scary.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h06m31s685.png)

Tried to make eyes a little asymmetrical, I feel like I always make them the same.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h06m57s769.png)

In the end, they look almost the same, another thing to practice. The decision to make the eyelashes the same color as the eyes, was definitely the correct one.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h07m17s984-1.png)

Haircut time! Short hair is my personal preference, but I don't rule out the option to pixel her with long one too.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h07m38s224.png)

Lines to establish some hairstyle, and of course, ever-present light line! Also, from a person named @mieatra on Twitter, I learned that you can auto outline, using Shift + o! You should check them out!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h08m05s419.png)

Like I said, even the shading is minimal. I wanted her to be as "pure" as possible. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-17-21h08m19s336.png)

Last changes. Somehow, I like her. It's weird, I very rarely like my creations. Maybe because she is not a poor imitation, but her own self? That's a little too romantic for my taste...

Anyway, it's getting late. Thank you so much for reading! I don't know what will come out of this... but that's ok, I guess. Not everything has to be under control, and nothing will ever be perfect. But we try again!

Until next time! Baya!
### #55 Odd one
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/55-odd-one/
Last updated: 2025-11-30T21:20:37.000Z
No promises this time. 

Citrus is a weak hypothesis, after all.

This one is unfinished, not that my completed works look any better.

I don't think I will finish it. I thought I had an idea, but it wasn't the best... tale of my life, I guess.

It's hard to think about something comforting, when you are not comfortable yourself. 

But I try. Just look at me, lazy, inconstant, talentless: there is no way, you are worse than me. I'm coming back again and again. Trying. If I can try, you definitely can succeed.

Maybe I will try again tomorrow. And you should too, even it will be your thousandth one. 

You have only limited amount of failures until you will reach your goal, so better get back to failing, as much as you can. I still believe in you.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h13m06s672.png)

I guess I should start sketching a full silhouette, even before this stage. Way too many times, I found out that I have drawn something in totally different scale, or I'm running out of space.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h14m04s127-3.png)

The eyes were supposed to look tired but focused... they like they are tired of my lack of ability to pixel them properly. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h14m10s091.png)

The most reliable method of doing hair for me. Upward lines that symbolize hair strands, with some shading later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h15m00s085.png)

I got totally blocked here, so decided to move to the boots. Terrible mistake.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h15m13s957.png)

You need to keep the proportions of every element right, I don't know if the sketch would solve the problem, but I will try next time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h16m11s703.png)

Boots are pretty cute, maybe I should become the boot artists?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h16m50s402.png)

Sooooo, here we go. Boots size of the head, no space for legs, and no idea how to make a torso. Great job Citrus.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h17m25s847.png)

My beloved light line. At least she always helps.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h17m45s900.png)

I didn't like where it was going at all. I have no sense of human proportions, and everything looked weird.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h18m12s320.png)

Made this little accessories, hoping it would make it look better, but the flaws were fundamental. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/11/vlcsnap-2025-11-13-20h18m26s010.png)

I don't know if I will come back to her. I would love to, the design of the character is amazing, but as always I lack skill to give it justice on pixels.

I guess, the only thing I can say is: we are not giving up. I don't know when, what or how, but we must continue. Until we stop, we are not all defeated.
### #54.2 Go
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/54-2-go/
Last updated: 2025-10-21T18:26:44.000Z
At least the vision of this project were never more potent. If my pathetic ass can get up and try, you definitely can too.

I wondered if I even should make a post so fast and short, but who cares. I told myself at the start that there will be no editing this site. If I make a mistake, or do something stupid, it stays there. 

From now on, I don't care about the results, but every day I will try. I'm going to use this hate, let it burn until it incinerates me. 

Expect quality even lower than usual... you might not even see the difference. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-20-22h49m35s693.png)

Also now, there is no time or post limit on one piece. I work until I like it... or at least make it bearable, that's more realistic. So there will be much more experimentation, a lot of deleting and backtracking. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-20-22h50m05s552-1.png)

I didn't like how the hood looked, it was totally separate from the head. Giving it more refined shape might help.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-20-22h50m25s710.png)

Here's my attempt to add the rest of the body, arms under the coat, it failed like you see, but I like the idea, so might come back in the future.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-20-22h50m32s558.png)

For now, the hood got lower and wider, not it looks much better. Also, the color palette is changing to more shades of blue, white and grays are terrible to work with.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-20-22h50m50s868.png)

I want to make the hands look like they're pointing into the "camera"... wanting is the closest as I got.

That's all for today. I feel like I disappoint by making it so short, but I already mess up so many things that it probably don't matter.

See you!
### #54.1 Letdown (warning, harsh post)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/54-1-letdown-warning-harsh-post/
Last updated: 2025-10-19T21:53:27.000Z
Words can not describe how much I hate myself. What? You expected something nicer? Something full of hope? Not for me, there is no hope for me.

I hate how easily distracted I am. How lazy, how inconstant. There are people not knowing if tomorrow they will see the sun and are still making more than me.

I have never done anything even remotely good, just have been reaping others people work. 

I have the easiest job, the lowest bar to reach, and somehow I still manage to fuck everything up. 

How can I even dream of doing something good, if I can't do the bare minimum. All this beautiful words about journey and self discovery, just to lay down in the dirt. I hope at least you learned anything from that, clearly I didn't!

Sometimes I feel like the only thing that keeps me going is fear. Fear of who I would become if I stopped. I don't want to lay down in the grass and die! But the vision of another failure scares me so much... that I feel like I'm standing here, watching as everyone runs away so fast, and I can't move a centimeter. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-19-23h24m55s841.png)

After so many tries, at least I started some art and didn't immediately delete it... I hope I will be able to finish it...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-19-23h25m02s868.png)

I hope I'm the only one that's feeling like this. I'm sorry, that's so stupid. I'm sure you have much more serious problems. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-19-23h25m07s833.png)

Whatever happens, I still root for you. I may provide nothing of value to this world, but I know you are. This place would be much worse without you.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/Zrzut-ekranu-2025-10-19-232342.png)

I don't know how to end this. I hope we will see each other again. Even if not, I'm still incredibly grateful that you made it this far. Really.

Thank you, I can't wait to see how your work will pay out. I'm sure it's going to be great!
### #53.2 How much is the fox
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/53-2-how-much-is-the-fox/
Last updated: 2025-10-05T18:16:19.000Z
Well, that was something...   
Those "big" (ok, I know it wasn't THAT BIG, but let me have this one please...) not only take much more time, but also completely destroy my writing schedule (hey, I heard that laugh, I really try to keep one!)

I'm sorry if this post is going to be a little "quiet", I'm not having the best time right now.

I try to tell myself, that I did my best but, what if I didn't? What if I could work harder, longer, better?

On the other hand, I'm paralyzed by the fear of not doing good enough, what the hell is this situation. I'm afraid I'm not doing what I should, but at the same time, not doing more. 

I don't really know what to do in this situation, if you feel like this, I'm sorry. You are not alone, that's all I can say.

Coming back to a more pixel related topic, how the hell do I show progress on an animation? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h03m35s128.png)

If you want to do many variables of similar art, for the love of God PLEASE USE LYRES!!!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h11m20s405.png)

Instead of talking about pixel itself (there isn't much to talk about) I will try to tell about how I managed this whole operation.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h15m52s151.png)

First of all, DO NOT PANIC. Working on something bigger than usual can be really, really scary. Think about your task as a little individual projects, no bigger that things you already do. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h18m22s912.png)

Also, do not think that one problem invalidates the whole thing. You have no idea how many times I was stuck at something stupid during this project. Every time, I instantly was fixated on: without this part, nothing makes sense, it's worthless, so much work and all of it for nothing. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h19m23s172.png)

IT'S NOT TRUE! Every single part is its own thing and even if overall the project will present a little worse, it does not make the rest worthless.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h20m16s015.png)

Sometimes you have to make compromises: with your abilities, time you have, or even reasons you can't control. And it's all right, it will happen.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h20m44s441.png)

I think, working on this made me realize how little time do I really have. This one is so small and silly, went through without any major problems. And somehow I haven't finished writing about it, almost 2 weeks later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/10/vlcsnap-2025-10-03-19h21m24s962.png)

If I will ever find solution, I will tell you, but for now I think I have to fall into slumber for some time. 

Thank you for reading even this one. As always, I believe in you, you can do it!

Baya
### #53.1 Small and silly
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/53-1-small-and-silly/
Last updated: 2025-09-23T19:01:21.000Z
This was supposed to be another doom post with typical whining, but this little piece brought me so much joy that I just can't stop smiling.

So yea, this is my first "project", I think giving them numbers in this pattern has the most sense, but everyone will have a different title. I still don't know what parts of them I should write about: only art parts? Every step?

I guess I will just roll with whatever I will find interesting, it's not like I have a plan for anything I'm doing anyway...

So, this is my first "big" (I know, it's not very big, but we have to start somewhere) project, a custom cursor. This is just a first imagine, to test the idea. 

If anyone wonders, I'm using 32x32 canvas and turning PNGs into cursors using RealWorld Cursor Editor. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-23-20h26m01s954.png)

The art itself is very simple, but I plan on animating it and adding more variety for different functions. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-23-20h26m13s926.png)

It's always the same: eyes for proportions and to have reference point, simple face and stain of hair.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-23-20h27m40s404.png)

I don't really know what more to say, it's the same as always, shading and light line.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-23-20h28m50s124.png)

A little more shading and colored the cursor, nothing special. The real hustle will be with animating. 

Anyway, it's a shorter post, but I had such a hard time starting this whole thing. But don't worry, every step matters, every try and every silly mistake. So don't give up!
### #52 Something ever happens
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/52-a-ne/
Last updated: 2025-09-14T20:26:27.000Z
Heyoooo, happy post here! I feel like we didn't have one like this in a long time. So, I can't believe it, but we are really here. I reached my goal, I redeemed myself, I became better... maybe my goal wasn't very hard to reach, my mistake trivial, and I'm still awful, but we take those.

So, is this the time to end all of this? 

Ha, stupid idea! We just need a new goal!

To be honest, I have something on mind for some time. Something stupid... irresponsible... and most likely impossible. But, starting the previous one, I thought that I won't ever be able to complete it, so I feel like going for something less extravagant would be a downgrade, hehe. 

Now, I can make something, I want to obviously become better. But my main new goal is to help or enable something! Nothing specific, but I want to put my dirty little hands into some project, no matter how small or big (most likely small, I'm crazy but not THAT crazy!).

Don't get me wrong, I still think my pixels are terrible, and I have to learn a lot, if I really want to work with someone else. But now I know I can learn, I really can become better! 

There is no time limit, I will work as long as it takes.

And You! Yes, You! You reach whatever you imagine! Just look at this long journey, behind us! We got so far, so what could stop us from continuing? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h38m06s643.png)

This is just a simple little chibi, I wanted to try myself on a more compacted form. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h38m16s057.png)

It always starts the same, face, hair and some details. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h38m31s298.png)

**Lesson: If you want to make something look cuter, make the parts of the face closer together (but not too close!)**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h38m55s189.png)

I knew that two main points of this piece will be the head and the pyum (do you recognize this same from somewhere, hmmmmm???), so I started with both of them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h39m04s554.png)

Now we just have to fill the empty space. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h40m01s056.png)

I always make the hair too big, but that's because it's easier to cut the excess than wonder how to get the perfect shape the first time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h40m21s058.png)

The head is, more or less, ready. When you draw in such low resolution (this one is 64x64), you don't need to make hair detailed at all, just some shade and a few light spots works.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h40m32s461.png)

This method of doing clothing is incredibly cute, and really hard to evaluate, because you leave most to the imagination of the viewer. I don't really have much advice, pick two colors to make the "main body" of the clothes and pick different color if you want to make some details (like the hand on this one).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h40m43s913.png)

Having an outline ready really helps at this point. It makes you visualize how much space you need to fill.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h41m01s308.png)

Yea, it's not perfect, I still suck at clothes, but it's decent enough.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h41m13s470.png)

The tail is also really simple, outline and then filling, later shading. Don't worry about getting the perfect shape, you will see the problems during the shading process.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-14-21h41m40s528.png)

Final piece, background helps as always (I still don't know why).

Thank you for lasting this year with me, it was crazy, but such is life.

We are still fighting for what we believe in, and that's the most important thing we can do. 

Like I believed in you, year ago, I still believe in you! You got this!

See you!
### #51 Brand-new eye
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/51-brand-new-eye/
Last updated: 2025-09-14T19:36:08.000Z
It's late evening, but who cares.

Ello: I promised an art related post, and here I deliver. I was so focused on making something normal and not pressuring myself, that accidentally I made my biggest and most detailed art yet, that took over 3 and a half hours.

So no yapping on this one, we get straight to the art:

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h40m35s645.png)

Originally it was supposed to be only a little training of a new eye making method. I saw an incredibly cute eye and thought: I want to try too!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h40m46s838.png)

So generally art isn't very good apart from the left eye and the hand. Look out for those.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h40m55s601.png)

As you can see, you have to get the monocolor iris and give it a little shading. Later, you start adding dots and little shapes in the similar color. I could not find any rule to choose the right ones, just try and look if what you did looks good. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h41m04s355.png)

The middle iris thing is incredibly important, it does not have to very visible, but somehow it puts everything into the right perspective. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h41m17s549.png)

Now, more dots and the light reflection.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h41m45s345.png)

It might look weird from up close, but (as you can see at the preview) it all comes together nicely.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-19h41m55s468.png)

The final part is a little shape correction and some details on the other side. Also, try to use lighter colors on the one side and darker on the others.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h19m52s313.png)

I was supposed to stop here, but screw this, we are going in.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h20m01s743.png)

I knew who it is supposed to be, so the details we kinda set in stone, the execution on the side...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h20m28s314.png)

Might as well start working on the other eye if we are already here. I knew the pose won't change, so setting more details in stone will make future planning easier.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h20m39s092.png)

There is special complexity here, if something doesn't look right, the black line might be a little too thin (at least it, was for me).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h20m44s676.png)

I won't ever get, why blush is so important. In everyday life, you don't even notice it, but adding it to any character makes them look 10x better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h21m03s988-1.png)

The rest of the face is pretty standard. UwU face works every time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h21m16s247.png)

I found this method of making hair most reliable, just outline the most important strands, fill and shade them. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h21m42s688-2.png)

I didn't want to cover the eye, it was the best part of the art, after all! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h22m13s654-1.png)

Here, I got a little stuck on the hair part, so I decided to start designing the hat. **Lesson: if you are stuck on some part, start working on some other!**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h22m23s230.png)

This will do for now, not everything has to be done in one sitting.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h22m44s296.png)

Ok, now focus, the second important part is upon us: THE HAND!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h22m58s682.png)

The fingers were simple enough, started from the tip and went to the hand.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h23m08s507.png)

This is how it looks colored. Don't worry! I got scared too! Trust the process!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h23m24s243.png)

See? Much better. To be honest, I don't know how to draw hands, I just copied how someone else did it. But that's how we learn, after you copy something enough times, you will know how to do it by yourself.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h23m36s712.png)

This shading is incredibly important! Take a good look and try to remember.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h24m14s227.png)

Ok, the good part ended, now we get to the scuff. I still have no idea how to draw shoulders and clothes. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h24m26s080.png)

To be honest, I should have just shaded it and stop messing with something I'm terrible at... but that's not how we work. Every mistake is a lesson.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h31m09s276.png)

Comeback to the hair, just shades and some details, nothing crazy to not overcomplicate it (but something is missing, I wonder if any observant student notices what?).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h31m58s577.png)

Yep, the glorious, irreplaceable, always capable: light line!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h33m22s133.png)

Now when the face and hand are finished, time for accessories... man I really suck at those.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h33m47s109.png)

I started with the hat, first I wanted to add a similar light line, totally ignoring the fact that I already did one... and two different light sources look weird at best. General rule: DON'T DO THAT

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h33m54s535.png)

Yea, I was going crazy with this shit, testing everything that came to my mind.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h34m05s472.png)

That's how it ended, light line, but more in line (hehe) with one on the hair.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h38m07s936.png)

The shoulders got massacred... I know...  
Also, I noticed many artists use some color as a background, I have no idea why, but it kinda makes character look better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h38m29s193.png)

The hat got enlarged, and some polishing was made.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-11-20h38m47s006.png)

Final piece. I did both amazing and terrible work at the same time. But I'm proud of myself.   
I think this one really shows that I learn and develop, I could not even imagine myself from a year ago doing half of this.   

And you are also doing better, maybe not right now, maybe not always, but you are. And I'm proud of you every attempt, you got this champ!

Thank you for reading this monstrosity, it will happen again.
### #50 What a life
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/68acdc5467b0480001bb9005/
Last updated: 2025-09-07T20:51:24.000Z
Well, this is not what I planned.

This almost 2 month break, this art, this life.

Like I said in my previous post, I wanted my 50th post to be something BIG. Bigger than anything I have done before. 

But working on that project was so hard, I just could not get myself to do it. I felt so much pressure: "It's for the anniversary, it must be the best thing I ever created"

At the end, I was promising to myself that, I'll work on it tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow... I think you get the drill.

Now, after two months, I think I understand why: I was not part of my goal. I always wanted to do things for others, to show them my gratitude, not to make great arts just for the sake of being great.

This art was purely for fun, and because I was really missing pixels. It's funny, a year ago I would have never thought about working on a project like this. Now, a year has passed, and I don't even think about quitting. 

I have no idea where this will bring me, how it will end, if any successes are even front of me, how many failures I will have to go through. But I'm willing to try. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h29m18s045.png)

Pixeling after such a long break like this is a nightmare. I felt like I forgot everything and just stop at all. But it's like swimming, when you are in the water, you discover the body knows what to do.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h29m47s944.png)

I find this method of doing hair most reliable. Complicated shading and smooth transitions looks amazing, but just outlining is looking good enough (even, great if you mastered it... I didn't).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h30m03s940.png)

I had some problems with the eye, always trying to make them symmetrical, but it's not the right way. But making the inner part a little bigger and lighter looks much better. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h30m34s376-1.png)

Some simple facial features to get the placement right.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h30m51s972.png)

**Lesson: the light reflection on the hair is the most important part. If hair you made doesn't look properly, you most likely forgot about it (or at least I do).**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h31m20s317-1.png)

At this point, I was just adding more strands of hair and deleting any that weren't fitting. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h31m40s209-1.png)

Yea, the face is a terribly asymmetrical. I should have discovered it earlier, but the left hair strand disturbed proportions so much that I didn't realize until now.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h32m04s753.png)

Rest of the light reflection and some shading. They make all the difference.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h32m30s025.png)

The ears have no interest in looking soooooo great! But they do (after some polishing later). Generally, this **thick shadow in the left ear** carries this whole art on it's back. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/09/vlcsnap-2025-09-07-21h33m15s255.png)

This time I tried to spend more time on polishing than usually. I might not be able to pixel giant beautiful arts, but I can work on better polishing, and getting there step by step. My final advice, that was ruining this art for the longest time: **Don't make wide eyes!!!** (or eye in this example)

Anyway, thank you for not giving up! We fall, make mistakes, fuck up, but we try again and again! I believe in both of us!
### #49 One year later
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/49-one-year-later/
Last updated: 2025-08-19T20:38:09.000Z
The title is a blunt lie, but I don't care. Art does not have to be truthful.

It's a really special post, an incredibly long and painful break combined with the biggest success. 

You see... I made it. I reached my goal. 

Right now, I'm working on my biggest, most detailed and probably the best art yet. I wanted it to be my magnum opus. It already took over 10 hours of work, and I'm still not even close. This was supposed to reach show how much I improved, as well as, complete my goal of showing gratitude and love.

But then, THIS happened... a random little sketch I did over 3 months ago... sick, could not sit before the computer more than 20 minutes. Didn't even record it. 

This unpolished, imperfect, coarse... this one made it to the certain someone, on their birthday... and they loved it...

Almost a year ago, I failed. Didn't have a strength to show how much I care for someone. That's what started this whole project.

One year later, one of my objectively worse arts, did what I could not, last summer.

I feel... redeemed? Like I filled this whole that was eating me from the inside for the last year. Almost 50 pixels, dozens of hours of work, letdowns and successes. But in the end I made it. 

This whole thing, made me better. I met amazing people, helped those in need, made others smile, even inspired someone.

The journey was amazing. 

Thank you for sticking with me, for all this time. Went thought all my whining, stupid jokes and broken promises. It really means a lot.

This whole post has one purpose, to show you that: **when you try your best, you can not lose. Even if you don't see it. It might come from the most unexpected place. But it will. Your effort matters, and sooner or later, you will reap the fruits.**

I still believe in you, like I did the first time I said that.

Thank you once again and goodbye!
### #48 Limits
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/48-limits/
Last updated: 2025-12-11T20:45:08.000Z
I know I promised a more art related post, but I could barely force myself to do this. I'm sorry, I know, I don't deliver. And I know it will only get worse in the nearest future. Life.

Some people have strength to push through any adversity, endure any pain, defeat every enemy. I'm not one of them. I can only look up to them.

Today I wanted to talk about a very hard topic. Based on a title, you can probably guess, what. 

I feel like there is a giant stigma about limitations. We don't like being told that we can not do something. It came to the point where: if you are not able to achieve, you are just lazy or didn't work hard enough. 

It reminds me of a party game: Musical Chairs. Every time the music stops, the person that didn't sit on a chair, looses. Does it mean, that he didn't try hard enough? What do we miss? 

The first answer that came to my mind is that he had the longest way to the chair, that's why he lost. But it wasn't it. I think that what we miss, is the fact, that one chair is missing. From the start, every but one is supposed to lose. 

The limits are very similar, always there from the start, but we learn to ignore them. 

But we are only humans, our bodies and minds have their limits. And we should not be ashamed of that. Getting to your limit is not something to be ashamed of. 

It's something to be celebrated, if you have reached your maximum, it means that you have really given your all. Now, you should rest. You deserve it. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-09-22h47m48s002.png)

This art is so absolutely terrible that I just want to skip it. But I promised to show everything, so be prepared.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-09-22h53m25s225.png)

This sketch looks nice, but it all went downhill from there. To be honest, I barely had strength in me to sit down and start pixeling anything, till this moment I was till kinda into it, but later I just wanted to finish I fast as I could.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-09-22h53m39s459.png)

I guess if you want to learn something, there you go: this looks uncanny, because the eyes are looking directly at the “camera” while the head is tilted. It beaks the illusion in your brain. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-09-22h54m17s962.png)

It's all over the place… I wanted to go with the “no outlines” path, but It takes a lot a creativity that I just don't have in me right now. On the other hand, the sketch was prepared for that, so now it would look awfully with the outline too. I guess it's a lesson to never change the style mid-pixel.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-09-22h54m40s815.png)

Well, final piece. I really love Leafeon, so I'm sad he was desecrated like this.

I'm sorry for the another sad post. Life has been tough and at the same time I feel like I should just shrug it off, because most people have it much worse. I guess I'm just a weak human after all. 

But I promised to show every tear and blood dropped, no matter how pathetic. 

I don't really know how to make it better right now, but there is one thing I know for sure: I'm not giving up, no matter how low I will be. I scared, wasted and tired, but not done.

And you are also, not done. No matter how hard it can seem, you can do it. I believe in you. You are not alone.
### #47 Yourself
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/6865511a859b2e0001835f79/
Last updated: 2025-07-02T20:14:25.000Z
I have to solidarily warn you. This isn't art focused post, next one is going to be I promise.

If you ask me: "Citrus, what the hell is this"... I have to admit that your guess is as good as mine.

I often feel like I'm not experimenting enough, that I should have more freedom in my pixels. Well, this is my freedom manifested, some kind of yellow spiritual hawk. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h42m47s508.png)

I think expressing yourself is such an overused topic. It became just a marketing slop: be unique, show yourself, and do that by buying the most popular brand of shoes that everyone else has. "Yourself" became just another type of person. Which is so stupid. Everyone is totally and absolutely unique, putting "yourself" as a category is a disgrace to everyone. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h42m59s474.png)

Yourself is a journey, every day you wake up a different person. Whatever you do, changes you. It's scary... but also amazing. Thanks to that, it's never too late to be Yourself. Real one, not just getting a badge from someone else. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h44m00s492.png)

Please try, even if you think that you don't have time or strength. One day of really being Yourself brings more joy that fitting into the definition for an entire life. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h44m57s527.png)

My pixels, website, every try, is really me. And I feel it, it really gives you a purpose. Even tho I was never fitting into this "art" category.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h45m53s203.png)

I don't have to, you don't have to! It's only Yourself, nobody-else's measurements don't apply. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h49m31s121.png)

It's not some kind of destiny. Permanent life path. Tomorrow, my yourself might be different. But it still will be mine and only mine.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/07/vlcsnap-2025-07-02-20h50m13s353.png)

Thank you for reading this unusual, weird post... I guess all of them are weird, but this time I exceeded even myself.

It's not too late, I promise! You are important! And deserve to be You!
### #46 Right place
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/46-right-place/
Last updated: 2025-06-30T21:14:48.000Z
Ehhhhh… 

Writing these comeback posts are like coming to your mum at 10 pm to tell her, that you need a cress for school, for tomorrow…

So, well, yea I failed miserably. There weren't supposed to be any more breaks.

It was such an eventful month for me. I'm still dealing with some problems, but I hope, I can come back to pixel art. 

I really missed it, you know? Every day. It wasn't only feeling of disappointment or failure. I truly wanted to practice more. For myself. 

I think it means… I love it? No matter, how hard it was, I was still thinking about it.

Or I'm just crazy… I don't really know now.

Anyway, as I said, a lot happened. Some bad things… mostly bad things. But also some good, even amazing… with bad inside them… 

I guess that's how life works, but I will talk about it in next posts.

But I'm back… still broken, shaking a little, with more issues ahead… but that's ok. More than ok, you don't have to be perfect, you never will if I have to be honest. Pushing through problems is what makes you, you. And you are good enough.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h45m46s636.png)

Today's art have a really strange story. For short, it was made for use. For someone who is doing her best. But just could not cover everything herself. I'm not the right person to do such things… you could find a better artist by asking random homeless on the street. But only I was there. So I could try my best, or leave. I was left too many times. I also left people that needed me. The second one is much worse. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h47m16s694.png)

So I tried, did my best. And it kinda worked? It's not great, but usable for now. Maybe, it's better than if no one have tried. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h47m44s935.png)

I was using many tool for the first time, like this blue line at the middle. It's a symmetry tool. Not really useful for real pixels, but perfect for icons like this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h48m12s304.png)

I didn't really have a plan or idea what to draw. I knew only one clue… bucket.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h50m01s094.png)

I cannot stop smiling when I look at this part. Probably, you hear this from me in every post, but this moment is just beautiful. Full of possibilities, everything can happen now. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h50m52s790.png)

Lack of plan resulted in many changes, but that's ok. I have an instinct to never change things I work on. Another thing to work on.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h53m11s081.png)

A little experiment with the wood patter. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h54m18s525.png)

Sometimes less is more. Simple patterns, that are spread across the drawing are less visible to the eye, but still get the job done, and let the brain look at the whole picture easier.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/06/vlcsnap-2025-06-30-20h57m52s721.png)

Sometimes, you are the best person, just because you are there. In a situation like this, you can either drop it, comeback to being irrelevant. Or do your best. Maybe not succeed, but fight.

Thank you for reading it all. I hope it will reach someone in hard situation (very nice thing to say, good job Citrus). 

If you need to hear this, you can do this. No matter how hard it is, how little you feel you are doing. How long the break was. Try once again. Only that matters.
### #45 A galaxy full of possibilities (and things to do)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/45-a-galaxy-full-of-possibilities-and-things-to-do/
Last updated: 2025-05-14T20:46:14.000Z
Yea, this one is even shittier than usually. And yet, I have no idea why. Maybe the colors are clashing? Maybe there is too little of them? Or too much? I guess that is why we try and learn. Hopefully.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h35m18s678.png)

I tied to use the outwards to inwards approach. Made the big dark ball and started adding things on the sides.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h35m36s151.png)

Then got closer and close to the middle. I feel like I didn't use the space *(ha ha)* correctly. The purple part should be much wider on the bottom and the top.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h36m52s403.png)

There isn't much to comment on. My goal was to make it look like it's spiraling into the middle. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h37m09s285.png)

I was just placing a spiral lane and fill it with the color later.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h38m11s542.png)

Not gonna lie, doesn't look like a spiral at all. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h38m51s013.png)

I added some stars to fill the empty space *(I'm so funny today).* Also added some more lines to highlight the intended shape.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-14-21h39m21s862.png)

This is how it ended.   
Sorry for the low energy post today, I'm so tired. 

I'm happy that I even tried to make anything. 

And you should also, life sucks, but every time you try regardless, it's already the biggest success. 

Thank you for being here, and not giving up. See you!
### #44 Dress yourself!
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/44-dress-yourself/
Last updated: 2025-05-11T20:55:58.000Z
I wonder if this pun will actually work, but anyway. 

Hallo! (This is not a typo, I intended to say exactly this).

Today is the first post of learning how to pixel cloths. My list of things I have to practice is big enough to cause deforestation if anyone would try to print it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-11-22h26m09s643.png)

The process is quite simple and requires awful precision at the same time. For example, I fucked up the proportions on this one completely, and later it was really hard to fix (that's why the head is so tiny btw).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-11-22h26m54s470.png)

Generally, you just have to use shaded right. I have no idea how, I was looking at the model. All the pixels I saw researching were looking pretty similar, so I guess you just have to do it a few times to learn it, and then it's natural.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-11-22h28m03s605.png)

The vertical lines are incredibly important. You have to find the right angle for them, if not, they will destroy the illusion.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-11-22h28m42s574.png)

It was mainly the dress practice, so I didn't pay much attention to the rest, but I'm still so salty about the skin color. I always find this amazingly shaded pixels, and they all use some sort of pink/red shade. But I can never recreate it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-11-22h29m23s105.png)

This is the final piece. 

I will have to do a lot more of them, with different styles and cloths types... and proportions. 

I'm looking at people for my whole life, and somehow I don't know how big is the human head.

Thank you for reading this short post. I promise next one will be much bugger, it's around time to do another background, and they take sooooo much time. You will be begging for another post like this.
### #43 Don't worry, be cookie
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/43-dont-worry-be-cookie/
Last updated: 2025-05-10T20:16:19.000Z
Positive post right here. The "I'm not doing enough" thought is a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you will constantly worry about it, you will never be able to rest and regenerate your strength. And because of that, you will actually underperform. What will of course lead to more "I'm not doing enough". I will call it INDE-train! 

If you constantly feel like this, you might want to break the cycle. Understand that to really do enough, you also need the time to properly rest. Not by, nervously scrolling on your phone, waiting for the next work session. Take a long, nice break, away from your work, do not think about it (as much as you can). 

If you feel like you are wasting time, remind yourself that you are doing it, to work with 100% of your abilities later.

Crash the INDE-train (it sounds so stupid, I will use it again, sorry, not sorry)! Go outside and get some cookie from the bakery.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h24m09s672.png)

This one is the effect of 3 days of projecting, changing mind and pixeling. But the start is always the same, the outlines.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h27m21s781.png)

When I do hair, I like to draw the bald, round face and then treat the hair like the beast that's slowly devouring it. Step, by step, detail after detail.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h30m01s869.png)

As you can see, I quickly finished the face, which was simple from design. But, the hair was the hard part. I strongly suggest making the hardest part last, because changing this face will take me 30 second, but I will have to change anything on the hair, it will be a harsh ride (you will see why in a moment).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h32m12s138.png)

At the start, I wanted to make it my classic hair. Light line at the middle, some shades and lines. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h32m21s975.png)

Transferring complex hairstyles to pixels is incredibly difficult. I don't really know if there is any better method to it, but I just make the outlines of the more detailed parts, and make them brighter.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h32m46s491.png)

Here, a new idea came to my mind, similar to one of my previous pixels (of the same person, that's why I wanted to try it here, and yes, I am well aware that the hat is on the other side here, and I don't care).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h33m03s303.png)

**Lesson: to make the head look more 3D, it's a good idea to leave some space at the top and make it dark.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h35m16s095.png)

The hat got refined, but I still don't really like the way it looks. I will have to add hats to the list I guess.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h35m30s972.png)

See? The darker part at the top. I think this is the best way to show, what is on the front of the head and what's on the back.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h36m19s564-1.png)

And here I got outplayed by my own stupidity. I paused the recording to eat something, but forgot to let go again...

Well, I will try to explain it. The hair got it's shading, the light parts on the front and darker at the back. Also, I covered it in this semi-random patter. It is worth noticing that the pattern is much thicker on the sides than in the front. It also adds to the 3D feeling.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h37m16s775.png)

I had to take a little break from the hair (also the "hard last" rule, but it didn't really matter here) so I started to repurpose the outfit, to suit the pixel-art.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h37m39s534.png)

The belly got WAY TOO big. I thought it will make her look like she is facing left, but made her pregnant instead.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h38m05s179.png)

I had no idea how to fill the back of the hair. Also, I think I made it way too wide, but it was too late to change it (I mean literally, it was like 11 pm).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-10-20h38m32s348.png)

The final piece. It does not look that bad. Of course, I'm sure someone better would make it cuter. But I put a lot of time and effort into it and for me, it's really nice.

As always, thank you for reading. Enjoy your well deserved break, and I'm sure you will do amazing afterwards!
### #42 Nice to Eat You
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/42-nice-to-eat-you/
Last updated: 2025-05-04T21:07:20.000Z
Lately, I have so much to do. Well, that's a lie. I have to do only one thing, but it takes so much time and I don't want to do it so much... The constant pressure, the Damocles sword, it makes me crazy. I'm so tired of the stress that I waste most time in which I could work on it.

It's important to find a moment of peace, and to understand that the only thing that ends your life is, well... death. You will get a second chance, so just do your best and if you will succeed, great, if not, there was nothing more you could do. You will get it next time. I believe in you!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h32m10s690.png)

First, the sketch to fill. I really like using standing out colors to mark certain parts (like the leg on this one), even if they will not make it to the final cut (colors, I mean, the leg is kinda crucial).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h32m24s438.png)

**Lesson: if you are working on something that you look at, from an angle, get some big and easy to make part that will serve as a reference to the rest.** 

Like the mouth on the screen. It was much easier to set the angles right by just looking at it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h32m34s330.png)

All parts are on its places, time to fill him.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h32m40s900.png)

Always start from the main body color and go from there. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h32m54s129.png)

The first light spot and shade are incredibly important, you will have to follow them for the rest of the drawing (or just freestyle it, like me \[don't be like me\]).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h34m05s460.png)

Just a simple lighter stain and darker behind it makes a giant difference. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h34m30s669.png)

At the end, I finally decided to outline him. I'm trying to avoid that, and learn some techs, but here it was calling for it!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-04-22h34m51s316.png)

Final piece. 

It was so hard to start it. Don't let your failures, convince you that it's not worth for trying. Every effort matters, and every step is the most important.

Thank you for reading. You can do it!
### #41 Ice in the hole
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/41-ice-in-the-hole/
Last updated: 2025-05-02T21:21:10.000Z
Hi. It's been a rough week for some, for others a rough month or even a rough year. You might be one of those people, you might even not see it. But no matter how much of a failure it has been, remember that you also deserve to be happy. Never stop trying to reach that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h28m43s743.png)

Another ice practice, yey! Even worse than the previous one, YEY! But to be honest, this time it went faster, even tho I'm using higher resolution. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h28m54s025.png)

I had such a hard time with colors on this one. It's such a hussle, one tone looks just fine, you put the next one and BAM! nothing matches, and even the previously good one somehow does work at all. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h29m05s990.png)

This time I went with "wall by wall" method. It has some advantages, for example, it was easy to make a pattern on every simple one of them. But on the other hand, I feel like they all look disconnected from each other.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h29m46s196.png)

General rule is: place color (dark of afar, light is close), place some patterns to make it look more interesting. That's all.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h30m05s287.png)

Much darker spots in the corners add a cool depth effect.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h30m19s786.png)

Another wall, it should be a little lighter than a base, but not as light as the top. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h30m55s283.png)

You don't have to stick to the "cube shape" perfectly. Adding some layers that connect the two walls give effect of fluidity and makes it look more natural.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h31m07s775.png)

Yea, another color change. It's not like I changed half of the pallet 5 minutes before the end.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h31m28s800.png)

Now every wall is on its place, it's important to remember where they are placed to not lose part of them and make the cube look too irregular.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h31m38s401.png)

The lighter parts on the top makes it clear where is the lighting focused.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-05-02-22h32m10s302.png)

Final color change and piece. 

I have a lot of things that I would rather not do on my head right now, so it was kinda hard to find time and energy to make this. But fighting for your dreams is always worth additional struggle. We spent way too much time on fights that we don't put our hearths in. Do what you love, you got not time for anything else.

Anyway, as always, thank you for reading and if I could get myself together to work, you also can!
### #40 Don't cry little one (it's going to get worse)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/40-dont-cry-little-one-its-going-to-get-worse/
Last updated: 2025-04-24T21:28:00.000Z
Hi! 

Today was a great day! I picked up my ass and got to work. Work on something new, scary and unpredictable.

And to be honest, it was fun. 

This is my first 256x256 canvas drawing. With that many pixels, it's hard to fill the blank space, but on the other hard the drawing is limited only by my skills. It will most likely take a long time to master, but the results can be incredible.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h13m18s384.png)

Because the number of details has increased, I will try to make this part as accurate as I'm able to. So that's how I started, face and a hairline. If it's hard for you, don't worry, I was also trying to get the right shape a million times before, but now it's much easier. Just keep training.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h13m30s838.png)

More accurate sketch, with the hairline that I will be working on.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h16m47s421.png)

I realized that I have never shown how I make eyes, so this is going to be step by step, eyes with Citrus.

First of all, the eyelashes and the sclera (the white part). They kinda make the frame for the eye.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h16m53s026.png)

Later I typically add 2 colors, one main and one as a detail. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h16m58s268.png)

In the middle, the pupil, with reflections, I have no idea why, but **lesson: reflections are the most important part of the eye.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h19m43s905.png)

More reflections and the shading.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h19m51s164.png)

Some cute details also look great most of the time, try adding little stars or tears.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h20m01s026.png)

That's how she presents with both eyes, not bad, if I can say.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h21m12s774.png)

Here's the hardest part, the hair. I have no idea how to make them look good on such a big resolution. I just added some shades. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h21m26s657.png)

Drawing someone looking straight at you is hard (drawing someone in any position in space-time is hard\[drawing is hard\]). You have to be amazing at this to make it look not flat. I tried my best, but this sure is going to be another thing for me to pay attention to.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h22m31s716.png)

The left side is done. I don't really know what more can I add without going into "random lanes" direction.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h23m12s952.png)

I wanted to show this amazing jump, that you sometimes can miss when looking at one detail at the time. This one looks so much more alive than the previous one. **The shadow from the hair is crazy important.** But the little blush and dots on the hair also put a lot of work.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-24-22h24m18s944.png)

The final piece. I should have dropped the jumper, but I also want to train cloths, so that of you with the interest in fashion, I'm sorry in advance.

It looks like a work of an enthusiastic amateur... and that's totally true.

I'm happy that I forced myself to work on this, and you also should give yourself a chance. Even if you think, something is impossible for you, just give it a try. 

Do your best, that's the only thing that matters.

Anyway, thank you for reading, and see you on the next one!
### # 39 No need to be afraid (they don't bite)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/39-no-need-to-be-afraid-they-dont-bite/
Last updated: 2025-04-22T22:52:02.000Z
This is going to be a very sappy post, sorry.

I feel like I'm not doing enough. Never. 

Yesterday, someone saw my art and said that it's great, that he also learns and hope to make something like this one day.

It shocked me so hard. I was on the opposite end so many times, that it became natural for me. I never thought someone would really see me as an example.

I feel like I should be happy, proud. I'm not. This art wasn't great or even good. How can someone be inspired by my arts if they are bearable at best?

So tonight I tried to increase the grid to 256x256\. To become better.

But I was so overwhelmed, I couldn't even start to do anything.

I have so much support on this journey. How can I still be so miserable? So many people have never heard a good world and still became masters.

I don't really know how to end this thought, I will try, ok? I won't give up, that's all I can do. My goal remains the same, and let me be damned if I will stop before reaching it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-22-23h17m56s889.png)

I wonder how many people will recognize that it is. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-22-23h18m03s408.png)

Just sketching for the reference, as always at the start, I don't do that, but I'm sure having a little background sketch of what you want to draw is insanely helpful. That way you don't have to focus on planning and proportions, and can go straight to the details that will make the art pretty.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-22-23h18m31s344.png)

I had no idea how I wanted to finish the wings. I had a vision of something light and free, but nothing more.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-22-23h18m50s107.png)

Finally, after a few designs, I ended up with this. Looks kinda like a blowing wind (at least it was supposed to be). I really enjoyed this more kind of free way of drawing. No plan, just trying whatever came to my mind.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-22-23h19m35s977.png)

A little love to the serpents. I fell like I should make a full-sized one, they are so sun to pixel.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-22-23h19m53s585.png)

Final piece. 

To be honest, screw me, I made incredible progress from the start, and I'm just lying to myself. Good job Citrus, you did great, keep going.

Ps. You, too, are doing amazing, and I'm proud of your every step.
### # 38 Head full of thoughts
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/38-head-full-of-thoughts/
Last updated: 2025-04-20T21:39:09.000Z
Hallo!

I have only one thing to say today. Support others and get supported by them.

We are all different, but we shouldn't all to strive to become the same. We all have particular skills or interests, and that's great. Share your strong sides with others, but also let them cover your weak spots. The impossible task for one is easy for the other, you don't have to (and won't) be good at everything. Work, grow and become better at your own specialty and then help others with it. We can cover much bigger ground working together!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h19m59s338.png)

This chibi is a little different, I tried to make it as simple as possible. There were no color resections, like I usually do if I want to make a minimastic pixel, but rather "lane" limitation. I wanted to draw as little details as I could and make it look pretty at the same time. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h20m15s367.png)

Working with restraints like this worsens the final effect, but I strongly believe that it helps you learn faster (kinda like putting weights during physical training). Also, if I'm not limiting myself, one of two things happens: a) activity becomes too repetitive and boring or b) I'm overwhelmed, because I try to work at everything at once, without any focus. If you struggle to work on something, maybe you should also try putting some limits.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h21m17s557.png)

As you can see, it will be very classical (for me) type of art, simple outlines (even tho at some points I was able to use it a little more creative way), simple shapes.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h22m11s136.png)

It of course also means... return of the light lane! Woo-hoo!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h25m29s902.png)

I made head a little slimmer. I don't know why, most chibis is style like this have really wide heads, but when I draw them, they don't look nice.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h26m38s706.png)

Also, I probably have to add another point to the "to learn" list. I have no personal interest in clothing, so they are so hard for me to draw, especially when I have to shorten a whole outfit to a dozen pixels.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h27m16s377.png)

Well... let's just say, that I'm working on it, ok? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-20-22h27m27s592.png)

I'm decently happy with this one. I was able to make some interesting shadings (like with the back hair and the right part, where you can see that one strand goes over another). Because of the poor planing, I was not able to use one technic that makes the head look less flat, but I will try on the next one.

Anyway, thanks for reading and good luck!
### #37 A chilly reception
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/67fc29e5790f450001aa4e98/
Last updated: 2025-05-02T20:48:24.000Z
You know what? I'm hecking proud of myself. I wasn't filling like pixeling today, but I sit down and done it. Not only that, but also I chose something I'm especially bad at, to train.

So today is the success day, even if the art isn't so great.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h22m53s765.png)

This is my first part of the "ice and other transparent substances" training. You thought I forgot about it? You wish! (I kinda wish I did...)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h23m00s052.png)

The immediate problem was clear. I have zero 3D space awareness. Nothing better shows this, than the fact that the whole drawing took 30 minutes, and I was trying to draw the cube for the first five. 5 minutes to draw 11 lines. Yes, that's right... 11\. I forgot about one...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/05/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h23m31s564-2.png)

That's the start. Because I'm absolutely green with this whole see-thru business, I'm still looking for the best (or at least, bearable) method. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h24m31s960.png)

I started with... surprise, surprise... the cube. My theory is that this whole "transparent" deal is just a really clever way of deceiving our brains, that's I didn't even try to make it work before the whole thing was finished (kinda like with the eyes, if you remember).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h24m38s590.png)

This looks promising. The dark floor makes it already look kinda 3D. If only I wasn't such a moron and placed the back wall there...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h24m53s663.png)

Don't pay attention to the color change, it will happen again, way too many times. The gray shades are supposed to be at the back walls, it's a great way to make ice look like you can see through it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h25m57s830.png)

Here I started to remove the edges, they were just to support my terrible imagination. The lighting is supposed to show where the walls are.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h26m36s935.png)

The color are kinda important here. The "front" flash has to be really bright, almost white, while the "back" one have to be as close to the ice color as possible.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-15-22h27m21s224.png)

Like this. Also, my friend had to point it out but, the top corner of the base was way too much to the right, and it didn't look great. It's another mistake created by me forgetting how the cube cubes.

I would not say it's great, or even good. But I'll be better, I will keep on pushing myself and learn, even if I would prefer to just eep the whole day.

This is today's lesson: you might not see it, but working on your dream is totally different from working, because you have to. But you have to start doing it to see the difference, now I'm happy I did it, and somehow even less exhausted than before I started. 

Work on your dreams, they are always worth you effort!
### #36 Have a strength to pull out this sword from the stone.
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/36-have-a-strength-to-pull-out-this-sword-from-the-stone/
Last updated: 2026-04-13T19:52:49.000Z
Wow, I produce a lot of shit lately. 

This was my attempt to work on backgrounds. I rarely make any, so I'm absolutely awful at them. I have so many aspects of arts to work on. It kinda excites me. I should be demotivated and overwhelmed, but I'm chilling. It's like with being surrounded by enemies, it does not matter where you shoot, you will most likely hit something.

My today's wisdom is to try new things. Even if you didn't like them in the past, try it from the another angle. Don't be closed to the new ideas, life is short and fast, it would be a shame to skip something fun, just because you refused to listen.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h44m49s010.png)

From this imagine alone, I knew this won't be my greatest art. I didn't have a clear vision of what I wanted to make. But it's only a training, so it don't have to be good. I felt similar to making my first arts, I knew that it will be bad, but it was just a starting point. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h45m07s998.png)

But I succeeded at something else: it was my first "two-day" pixel. It might sound stupid, but I hate not being able to finish something in one sitting. I'm a totally the "night before student", and it serves me well. But I feel like being able to work on more complicated pixels for multiple days would help me do arts on a much bigger scale. It's kinda funny, that the whole life of education I never felt like I want to work on this aspect of myself, but I'm wiling to fight against my nature for this. **Maybe it's a lesson? Maybe you are not lazy or incompetent, you just didn't find anything worth fighting for? Search for it... it's painful, stressing and crushing, but I would never exchange time I spent on this project.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h45m26s137.png)

Like I said, I'm totally clueless on how to make backgrounds. But I was here before, I know I will discover new methods, the most important thing is to keep on trying.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h46m20s859.png)

The only method I had in mind was to just start from one rock and go from there... Yea, I know, not the most creative or tactical thinking, but I'm a battleground demon not a tactician, ok?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h47m38s035.png)

Here my faith started to shake. It was overwhelming, and I wanted to do so many things at the same time. I felt like I was making no progress(if you are waiting for some insane comeback like: "but after this I realized I have to keep working for the next 5 hours" there will be none, I just decided to finish this and see what went wrong.)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h47m49s508.png)

One big mess... It kinda reminds me of my Stone art. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h48m12s418.png)

Here I decided to stop and finish the rest. One of my greatest enemies are colors. I have no idea how to match them and reach certain points, for example, I was searching for a very weak brown/red glow, but after so many tries I could not find anything similar. It's another thing I have to work on.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-13-21h48m42s886.png)

Final piece. Not as bad as I expected it to be. I feel like the back wall is ok, but the front entrance is awful.

Anyway, thank you for the read. If you are here, I believe you have enough power in yourself to get that sword. Even if you don't think so.
### #35 What's one more try?
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/35-whats-one-more-try/
Last updated: 2025-04-08T22:00:05.000Z
This is my another try on the chibi style. It's better than the previous one, but still not as good as I would like.

But I'm not going to complain. I'm still learning, so not everything I make have to be perfect. Next one is going to be better. 

Also, I didn't feel like pixeling today at all. To be honest, I would nap all day if I could. But I forced myself to work, and even if the result is not amazing, I'm happy that I was able to overcome my laziness.  
There is much more to learning than just visible effects. You have to work on your habits, motivation and mental. You might not see it, but you are improving.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h47m15s730.png)

I know, it's one giant hecking head. I had a couple tries to reach this shape, and I'm still not happy with it. I guess it will come with more practice (I hope so...).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h49m28s306.png)

The eyes come more natural for me, which is a surprise, because they were always such a hassle.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h49m37s648.png)

This is a simple and not bad looking base you can use. **Lesson:just be aware that your brain will have a very hard time recognizing an eye from just the pupil. If you want to see how good they look, first finish them and preferably add the second one, then judge.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h51m16s536.png)

The whole face looks kinda cursed without proper hair. Let's fix that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h51m52s725.png)

I'm trying to make these chibis as simple as they can be, so no advanced hair patterns on this one. Just a normal outline and shade. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h52m21s617.png)

The unrealistically big head makes it hard to pick the right shape for it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h52m33s756.png)

A little different, light ray than the usually, just for the funnies. It makes one part of the drawing more distinct, and it won't need more details, but the other side is left empty. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h53m03s595.png)

I have a terrible habit of drawing people like the Wii avatars (please tell me, you remember Wii. I'm not that old, I swear).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h53m14s139.png)

It should be simple, but this is horrendous. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h53m31s510.png)

Much better, not she looks kinda human. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-08-22h53m39s574.png)

The final piece. To be honest, it does not look like an hour of work, but it only means I have to practice more. 

Thank you for reading and see you on the next one, I will try to keep more regular posts instead of waiting till the very last day. I hope it will give me more time to train.

As always, don't give up, I'm proud of your work!
### #34 Chill a little
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/34-chill-a-little/
Last updated: 2025-04-06T21:21:15.000Z
Welcome, today is a time for a low energy post.

If there is one thing that we are not told during our lives, it is how to rest. Working is important, but you can not do it 24/7\. You deserve a break. Your health and good wellbeing is important. Don't feel embarrassed that you need to rest.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-06-22h38m54s482.png)

Whenever I fell like I can't be my best, I just some funny Pokemon to draw. They are like my comfort drawing objects.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-06-22h39m39s561.png)

Even tho I said not to feel bad, I'm always frustrated and mad at myself whenever I have days like this. But mostly, that I'm still too lazy to overcome this feeling when I'm not under the wall. Next week starts literary in an hour. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-06-22h40m14s401.png)

I will have to find a way to fight this. But it's possible, when I was starting I needed oven an hour to even starts pixeling (really, I'm not joking). Now I can start whenever I want. Even our nature can be changed, slowly, but with enough work we can do this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-06-22h41m29s611-2.png)

This pixel isn't anything amazing, there isn't much to comment on. But even this is better than giving up, you have to fulfill your oaths, I said there will be 2 pixels a week and there will be!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-06-22h42m25s801-1.png)

He got smaller, and a little shade. Just a silly little guy. I enjoyed drawing him, I knew this won't be my best work, so I was just having fun, not expecting anything amazing as a result.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-06-22h42m47s513-1.png)

Final piece. 

Thank you for reading this, and not giving up. Little steps are also pushing you forward, just don't stop!   
I'm planning something greater for the next time, keep your fingers crossed for me!
### #33 The future
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/33-the-future/
Last updated: 2025-04-04T22:04:19.000Z
First of all, yea, I'm aware that you can't see the tail on the white background. Will I do anything about it? No. 

Now, when we have the less important things (like the art quality) out of the way.

It's my first time (not actually, but first official, intentional time) re-drawing one of my arts. This piece heavily inspired by my fourth post on this site. It's insane to me. That was over 5 months ago, I was young, stupid and could not imagine working on canvas bigger than 32x32.

Now I'm still young, stupid and can't imagine working on canvas bigger than 128x128\. So there is some progress, right?

On a more serious note, this is absolutely amazing. For my whole life, I was told to not even touch anything art related, because I'm terrible at it. I'm not saying that I'm good, hell nah. But I'm better than I was.

This whole thing became so much more than just some pixels. Working on something that is against my nature and the way I was raised, forces me to look at myself from a different perspective. Ask new questions. Change me.

Sometimes when I read my own posts, I'm surprised or even feeling uneasy. "Who the hell wrote these?" I ask myself. "I'm a cynical, sour piece of crap, that hates people, who is this?"

It's not like I reached my goal and got re-borned as an entirely new entity. I'm barely out of the woods.

That is today's **lesson: the journey changes people. Every step leaves your old self behind, gives you new opportunities to grow and be better. A journey is always worth going onto, no matter how it will end.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h29m48s866.png)

The old outline style, I used it because most of the fox will have the same colors, so it would be really confusing if I just place giant blue stain.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h30m03s178.png)

Not gonna lie, when I saw the outline, I started panicking a little. I don't think I have ever said that, but it's an important part of the creation process, **lesson: If you feel overwhelmed by your art, start working on a small part of it. One by one, you will be able to complete it.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h32m22s114.png)

I was this unorthodox method of doing my favorite "chessboard" shading. It looks more alive, but on the other hand, less elegant. Maybe each one of them have their own purpose.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h35m06s175.png)

I wanted to show you how I was doing it. Instead of a typical checker, I was placing the whole line of shade and then jerk it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h36m45s435.png)

I added the white part, to help me to keep the proportions right. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h37m15s644.png)

Starting of shading and the leg. I was very worried here, it didn't look like leg at tall, but don't worry, **right shading fixes everything.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h37m20s884.png)

See? Now it looks like a knee. Also, I tried to use as little colors as possible. It gives greater visual clarity and generally looks better .

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h37m49s424.png)

The method of doing the shading remains the same. It's only important to keep the right angle. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h38m11s071.png)

This one is almost identical, but there will be step by step.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h38m31s702.png)

I wanted to make the shades mix, that's why there are two tones at the same place.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h38m49s628-1.png)

**Lesson: just make sure there isn't too many regular shapes or long lines, and it looks nice.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h39m37s031.png)

The head got the same treatment as well as a little shape change.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h40m24s657.png)

The mouth was done the classical way. I just made a white stain, and added the details.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/04/vlcsnap-2025-04-04-22h40m39s966.png)

Here is the final piece. 

Man, I bet that little fella from the past didn't expect the future like this. I didn't for sure.

If you didn't start your journey yet, it's never too late! Please, consider it.

I will gladly continue mine. I'm so curious where it will take me in the future!
### #32 There is magic in everyone
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/32-2/
Last updated: 2025-03-30T20:54:03.000Z
Hi! It's me again! Did you expect somebody else? Well, that sucks... it's only me.

Another day, another practice. This is just a silly thing that came to my mind, I absolutely adore this minimalistic style. It looks easy to make, but you have to make every pixel count!

I guess I should some wisdom with you as always. Basing on my day, I can say: sticking to the system isn't always the best option. Sometimes instead of waiting, just help yourself and others. Just because the path isn't conventional, it can't lead to a beautiful place.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h03m00s831.png)

One more time I started like this, I always showed how it looks after the filling, and you might not have realized how similar, and different at the same time, it's to normal black outline.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h03m12s752.png)

Previously, I had a giant problem to set the head-hair proportion correctly. This method helps with it a ton.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h03m22s649.png)

Simple eyes and shading, it might look stupid and blant, but don't worry.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h03m56s040.png)

I pushed the eyes one pixel to the right to match the direction, that she is facing. **If you feel like something weird is happening with your character looking into weird directions, this might be the problem, the shape of the head "suggest" some direction and the eyes have to follow it.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h04m17s524.png)

This was supposed to be an armor/magical robe combination. Yea, I too have no idea why I tried to do something like that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h04m27s058.png)

The shape and proportions are rough, but don't panic. Everything will change, it's just much easier to have a point of reference. I like to draw things a little to wide and big and then cut them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h07m08s001.png)

Random color stains, my beloved. They just work every time. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h07m12s847.png)

Ok, what is wrong here? I was looking at this for like 3 minutes before realizing that typically, humans do not have legs set onto the opposite direction than the rest of their body.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h07m33s786-1.png)

Here, I fixed that. Also, the magical armor became just an armor. It looks silly, but I didn't want to take it off.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-30-22h08m17s283-1.png)

Almost the final piece, the legs are a little too long and the ball at the staff isn't "ball" enough.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/image.png)

Here she comes, ready to face any challenge! 

Thank you for reading. Do not stress too much about how other people live, it's your only chance to be you so don't waste it!
### #31 Polish what you have
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/31-2/
Last updated: 2025-03-29T20:36:39.000Z
This is just a silly post. Just because I felt like pixeling.

Some time ago I realized that often I stop myself from working on this project. I think the reason for this is my how my past projects ended. They were often short bursts of excitement. I was working non-stop for a 3–5 days and then never touched it again. I was afraid this one will end the same. So I was kinda limiting myself (don't get me wrong, I am also lazy as fuck and sometimes could not even work within this small limit) so I will not burn out so fast. 

Because of that, I was never "just" pixeling. It was always for the posts. 

I'm taking this limit now. **Lesson: every effort matters, having fun is the best way to keep improving. Just do what you love, have fun, and you will grow eventually.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-20h58m36s730.png)

I'm kinda getting used to this method. If you are only beginning, better try to start your arts like this, instead of the outline.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-20h58m44s483.png)

I think I said that before, but I have to once again. This is my favorite part. Just before the details. I used to hate it, and that's funny. I literarily have "enemies to lovers" relationship with a drawing process. Everything is ready, you can let your imagination go wild.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-20h59m10s012.png)

I have to try to use this pattern more. I'm always hesitant, in close like this, it does not look great, but on the full art, gives an amazing effect.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-20h59m41s614.png)

Just little by little, head empty, only pixels.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-21h00m33s118.png)

I don't think there is too much to explain here. Not every time you have to rediscover the America you know? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-21h01m05s973.png)

Some irregular shapes are great to break the pattern.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-29-20h58m21s268.png)

Is it the prettiest or the most polished thing I have ever done? Hell no! Did I have fun making it? Yes! 

**Remember that your brain also learns passively, by just doing something. Don't let the fear that you are not "learning enough" stop you from learning at all! That is just stupid!**

Anyway, thank you for the read. I hope you are doing well and enjoying yourself. See you!
### #30 To reach the sky
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/30-2/
Last updated: 2025-03-28T20:52:47.000Z
Yea, I took my time. 

So many things happened, so many thoughts have crossed my mind.

The very first thing I have to share is... that I did it. My present was not only seen, but liked and EVEN USED. To be honest, when I saw that, I almost passed out. I could not believe it. All of my work, gave fruits. 

But it flipped some switch in me. "What the hell am I doing?" I asked myself. Objectively, I was just placing colorful squares in sequences to trick someone's brain into imagining some pattern that resembles a real life object.

But, on the other hand, I was happy. Insanely happy. No success (even if much greater) in my life till this point made me enjoy myself so much. 

Why?

I think, that's because it was my goal. I choose this patch, I knew why I was doing it and I believe it was good (not in terms of quality, more like "good" for the world). I will leave you with this. **When we do something for ourselves and others, it's much more valuable.** 

That was the nice part. But after that, I started questioning myself. Shouldn't it change something? Shouldn't I get a giant energy boost, start working on a new even grater pixel every day? 

Well, I did not. As you can see. Paradoxically, it learned me to not expect from myself. Just do you. Do your best, and when you can push even more. But you don't have to think that every minute you are not working is waisted. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-20h58m26s618.png)

I tried pixeling 3 different times this week. Every time I was afraid that my next work will not be as good as the last one. But does not have to be. You learn, try and learn, not climb a mountain on a set path.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-20h58m37s494.png)

So I searched random pokemon generator, rolled, and ended up with the Snom. "But Citrus, the thing on the art in nowhere near Snom" I hear you say. Yes, I changed it, let me finish my own post ok?!?!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-20h59m11s901.png)

This part gave me high hopes, it looked cute.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-20h59m17s371.png)

But, here the troubles started. I discovered how hard the ice is to draw. I always had trouble with slimy or glassy materials. I think I need the whole art (or even multiple) to practice it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-20h59m57s726.png)

This is the point I gave up. But I will come back! Stronger!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-21h00m07s595.png)

So, I used my own advice, and started improvising.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-21h00m15s755.png)

Little cute larvae. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-21h00m31s145.png)

I felt like leaving it on the empty space would be not cool from my side. So I added a little leaf.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-28-21h01m08s999.png)

Some shading and grass in the background. At this point, I knew I don't to put too much work into it, so it's silly and simple. 

Thank you for reading! And do your best!
### #29 Just wow
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/29-2/
Last updated: 2025-03-23T22:51:25.000Z
I'm not a humble person. This is probably my best work so far. 

As you can most likely see from my posts, I'm not feeling the best right now. Getting started on this one was so difficult: I took me like 6 tries. And I was absolutely sure that this one will end up terrible. 

My mental was awful. But there is the most important **lesson: it does not matter, how many times you fall, you fail or stumble. As long as you stand up and try again, you win. Please, don't give up. I'm absolutely the most lazy, stupid and talentless person that ever tried to do anything with their life. But it does not matter, because I'll not give up, I will try as long as I can.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h32m59s627.png)

A little different silhouette than usual. I think this way is much easier to draw people. This piece is kinda 3D. It does not look like that now, but you will see.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h34m33s957.png)

The eyes look so cute, obviously, I stole them. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h35m44s827.png)

I really live drawing these ears. The color palette is cool. They should be more fluffy, but I don't know how to pixel that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h36m10s295.png)

Most typical light line. I'm so happy that I learned doing this. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h37m14s349.png)

There's my **tip: it's my easier to use 2 different color shades. At this moment, I was using only gray and black. It was incredibly hard to make them distinct. Later I added shades of blue.** It was the greatest idea of this art.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h37m57s396.png)

Here you can see it. It's subtle, but you can see it, and it creates such a great effects.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h38m27s150.png)

Here you can see the full face. It's simple, but cute.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h39m06s217.png)

This drawing is so genius, nothing here is spectacular. But together, it all works so well.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h39m45s895.png)

These bottom two lines somehow makes the chest look 3D. Don't ask me why.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-23-19h40m41s138.png)

The wings and the pattern on the jumper. 

Literary, nothing extraordinary was made on this one. But together, it looks nice.

Thank you for being here, and not giving up. No matter how deep you seemed to fall down, and how pointless continuing of the fight might seem, just try one more time. Life sucks, but only your tries can make it better. And they will.
### #28 The most important
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/28-the-most-important/
Last updated: 2025-11-09T18:28:53.000Z
After the last post, I had to think this through.

So this is more of a talk than pixel art post.

Firstly, I had to reconsider why am I doing all of it. I know what was the spark that ignited the flame, but what is the fuel?

I was wondering if I just wanted to learn something, because everyone else has some ability or talent. I'm surrounded by so many amazing, talented, hardworking people. And I can't do anything special. It was a step in a right direction, but I felt like it's not exactly it. There are things that I'm good at and even if not, it did not explain why I started the way I did.

Another possibility was boredom. It wasn't right too. I had some free time, but I'm also lazy. Even when I had more, it did not motivate me.

What's funny, the correct answer was probably the very first I thought of. I just wanted to give, not only take. It sounds stupid, but it is my reason. I want to give back something to all this amazing people around me. I wanted to show that I care, and make them feel important. I feel like for my entire life I was only taking. Just had nothing to share.

It also explains why I started when I started. Because I wanted to give something, and had nothing to share. That was the reason why it hurt so much, not only I was loosing something great, but also couldn't do anything to show how much it meant to me. 

That's why my last pixel caused me so much pain. It was supposed to be a gift. But I still can not make something that is as good as people around me deserve. I felt like it will never be. They will be long gone before I will be able to properly thank them... again. 

This is my reason, my fuel, my goal. It may be stupid, shortsighted or simply unworthy. But what's why I'm still going, and not going to stop. One day, I will be able to show people how much they mean to me. I just have to work harder. If they will be gone before I will be ready, that's life. Could not change that. I just have to do my best.

**If you are also in a little crisis like me. Sit for a while and ask yourself questions: Why did I start doing this? Why am I still doing it? What do I want to achieve?**

For me, they are: Because I wasn't able to give when it mattered the most. I'm still surrounded by people that deserve my gratitude and I want to show them that. I want to make someone understand how much they mean to me, by giving them something made by me, thanks to them.

There is no commentary needed on this art. I used it only as a way to clear my mind before writing, and I think only one person will know what it is, and how much it's worth (thank you).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h13m28s817.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h14m59s726.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h15m08s443.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h15m21s741-2.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h15m32s956.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h16m07s493.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-18-20h16m52s956.png)
### #27 Just bad
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/27-just-bad/
Last updated: 2025-03-29T20:36:47.000Z
I really don't want to write this one. The art is bad, and the story behind is even worse. I failed on so many things, it's not even funny.

First of all, this was supposed to be my first even "two day" art. That's why there was no post during the week. I wanted to make something big, something polished. And I fucked up on the first step. I just didn't start working the first day. No excuses, I failed. It's my fault. I can't even sit to the computer and start something I like, I'm that useless.

Second of all, This was supposed to be a gift. Well, it won't be. It's not even not good enough. It's just bad. I would not like to receive such an awful gift, so I won't even try.

I'm writing this post just because I promised to my every failure. There you go. Even the post will be uninteresting, so it will be a triple fail.

I seriously don't know, am I even learning something? Where this is all going? Useless, awful arts and some ramblings that only I am reading. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h21m37s435.png)

This was much bigger art than I normally do. 256x200, so I had to place things before I even sketching. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h21m47s814.png)

Started with the rock. There isn't much to say here. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h22m05s591.png)

Just some random lines to make it less bland. Shades, that's all.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h22m40s415.png)

I wanted to make a character standing back to the "camera". Because of the humorous reasons, I dropped it, maybe I'll use this idea in another pixel, looks cool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h23m08s007.png)

My goal was to make her comically jump while mining. I needed like 20 tries to set her in a, more or less, correct position.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h23m25s259-1.png)

Just some basics. Placement of the hands was really difficult.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h25m57s721-1.png)

Here I added details. When you set the eyebrows diagonally, they always look angry, no matter how the eyes are actually made. Typical hair, one light stripe and some shades.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h26m29s762.png)

Background... Just colored it all to gray, made lines and added different colors.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h27m11s071.png)

Here I wanted to make a keeling character. It kinda looks ok, but I feel like it could be better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h27m34s917.png)

Changed her outfit, but with that few pixels I could not make anything good-looking.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-16-21h27m45s044.png)

Another background work. Different colors and random lines resembling grass and wind. 

And that's all. It was supposed to be my greatest work, but it's terrible. That's all. I can't force myself to say anything optimistic on this one. I didn't do my best.

It's just one of those posts to show you that failure is part of this. Big part.
### #26 A deal with a devil, would be a shortcut, but we don't need them here.
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/26-a-deal-with-a-devil-would-be-a-shortcut-but-we-dont-need-them-here/
Last updated: 2025-03-29T20:36:59.000Z
Today was all about breaking my limits. This piece has an "open composition", have a view from above (kinda) and took me almost two hours of pure work, not counting the projecting and looking for materials to work with. 

It's another of my many flaws, I am not patient or persistent at all. After working on something for an hour, I start to dissociate, after another 30 minutes I just want to finish it as fast as I can, no matter the results. 

This one was two hours of pure work. It was hard, I had to constantly remind myself to stay focused. But I did it, I broke my limit. It's my advice for today: **it will be easier, every time. Doing things that are unintuitive and unpleasant is a necessary part of every path that is worth traversing. Do it, push yourself to your limit and a little past that. Hey, if I can do that, and I'm a lazy piece of cake that always go for the lowest passing grade, you can too!** 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h04m05s155.png)

  
This looks so silly. I wonder if I should start drawing some reference to later build a real art on it (like a background plan), but I feel like it would be insincere towards you. I want to show the entirety of the process.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h04m11s883.png)

  
Demon-ass looking child. I wonder how many people will recognize the game (one of the best games of all time, btw).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h04m43s673.png)

It was going slowly, I was trying to manage my strength. Normally, I draw in a short, intense jumps. This time, I knew I need to have enough focus to end. This is also a great **lesson: know how much you want to draw and work accordingly, if it's a big, detailed art, don't rush too much.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h05m53s517.png)

It looks like a lot changed, but it's just a bunch of smaller things. First of all, I changed the skin color to better match the original. Second, I added tears and blood on the face. It was just a few seconds of work. Lastly, the little bloody tears at the bottom. I drew only one and copied it several times (it was not lazy, it was energy-saving, ok?). Oh, and the background happened. I don't know why, please if you draw something, keep the back empty, it's much easier to work this way.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h06m50s779.png)

Changed the light to more vibrant red and gave the symbol dark inside.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h07m40s786.png)

The face got new shading. At this point, I was kinda content with the main figure, so I started working on the back. This rope pattern was a total guess, and somehow I hit the jackpot. It looks so good!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h08m50s478.png)

Here, I added the red "aura" to the symbol, the pot and cracks in on the back wall. Nothing special, but the little details like this change a lot.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h09m12s643.png)

More cracks and game inspired symbols. Also, the floor got some more love. Man, some things will never change, I can make 20 posts and will still make the darker or lighter stains if I want something to look less dull.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-09-21h09m21s726.png)

Final piece. It looks like a work of an enthusiastic amateur... because it is. And there is nothing wrong with that. When you try something new, it's never perfect. But it will get better, easier, funnier!

Thank you for reading and good luck on your limit breaking! I believe in you!
### #25 The first ladybug of a summer... the iron one will also do
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/25-2/
Last updated: 2025-03-06T22:15:59.000Z
Sorry, but as I said in the title, today was the first warm day of this year. So I could finally cultivate my favorite activity: getting lost in the forests. I lost track of time and ended up walking for over 3 hours... when I was supposed to pixel for you. This is my advice for today, going outside is not overrated. Stop thinking about all of your friends, important events, school or work. **Just be with yourself, you give everyone around so much time, every second you are in contact with someone, through your phone, computer or the TV. YOU also deserve some attention from yourself, aways of all this mess.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h11m13s503.png)

I chose Aggron because: I love his design and I thought it will be simple. Well, I still love his design, but it was not simple at all.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h11m28s367.png)

I planned to make him in "one color, one shade" style. And it was all going smoothly. Shape was correct (at least I thought), colors were nice. Fast 30 minutes pixel and I will try to do something more challenging on the weekend... little did I know...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h11m46s318.png)

Basic, ready for shading. I came to like this part, in the past it was terrifying: "oh, it looks so bad, I won't be able to make it look more real". Now, it's like a deep breath before the big jump you made dozens of times, you know it won't be easy, but you made it before and will do it again. I think it's a really important **lesson: everything seems impossible until you start doing it regularly, do not let the fear paralyze you, push thru, and then you will laugh at yourself for being such a drama queen.** Really, I mean it, I have never thought that I will be able to create anything worth looking at. Even when I was starting this whole project it, I think, it was more of a punishment than a real challenge. Now, I really hope that I will get better, maybe not good, but better. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h13m27s643.png)

Aaaaaand we made it. My tonight's nightmare. Man, getting this shape right was so hard. I'm still awful at 3D shapes, and perspective: it was both. After like 30 tries to make it by hand, I tried the method presented on the screen. I know that real artists use lines to visualize 3D space, and I was so desperate that I was trying anything.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h13m45s180.png)

Another try, maybe I should dive deeper into this method. If it helps me to keep the shapes right, I'm down.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h15m38s012.png)

Back at the raw part again, to give you perspective, the head part took me 35 minutes while the whole drawing 60\. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h15m47s530.png)

The shading starts here, I'm also really happy how the eye looks, it's not perfect but it took me no time so I decided to keep it to show really nice first try.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-06-22h16m20s639.png)

Here I added shaded to the belly. Another, very important part is the change of the shape of the back. It became a little sharper, what looks more like it's in the back while the head is in the front.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/Zrzut-ekranu-2025-03-06-230703.png)

Final piece. I changed the original a little, but I think the light on the head looks better. 

Anyway, thank you for reading and please: give yourself a chance. Even if it will be another one, give yourself one more, from me, in exchange for the time you spent reading this. We have a deal.
### #24 Sweet like a jelly, weird like the Citrus
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/24-2/
Last updated: 2025-03-03T19:23:47.000Z
I'm not going to admit that I'm late. That way, the democratic consensus will negate the fact that it's Monday today. Democracy means: one man, one voice. I'm the only man here, and I'm definitely the only one with the voice. 

This piece is a poor copy of the work of an artist I'm in contact with. He made such an adorable creature. Looking at it, I could not stop thinking: it's so cute, but what if it was citrus?

That's my advice for today: re-do things that already have been done, with our own twist. Your ideas are valid and often great, even if the execution will not be perfect. For example, the original artist liked my unusual take and drew it himself. 

Exchange ideas, build a community, have fun! There are, most likely, tons of people that are doing similar things to you. Contact with them will not only be incredibly fun, but also help you progress and motivate you. Don't be afraid that they will not like what you are doing. Everybody started somewhere, who knows, there might also be someone who will need your help on his journey.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h09m08s078.png)

*It starts with shape, I don't know why.* 

*It doesn't even matter how many times you try*

*Keep that in mind, I designed this rhyme to explain in due time*

*All I know, shape is a valuable thing* 
*Watch the art fly by as the pendulum swings* 
*Watch it come down at the end of the day, the clock ticks pixels away*

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h17m50s791.png)

Even with the right formula before my eyes, I spent so much time trying to set the angle right. It's so silly, it's still just a ball with some protrusions, but if I do not see the 3D space all the time in a correct way, I get lost immediately.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h18m19s029.png)

For the time being, I was using colors only to solidate certain areas. **Lesson: You do not have to pick the shade immediately, you should not. Everything is relative and one color might look great on its own, but later in combination it will look awful.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h19m14s522.png)

Here I replaced the gray parts with one of my genius idea. Lemon and lime ears! Aren't they cool? Aren't they cute? I think they are amazing, even if I could not portray them as well as I wanted, it was always my dream to be able to replicate funny ideas my brain was tossing at me. And I can finally do it! Kinda...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h19m33s519.png)

The color war has begun. Working with so many strong dominant tones makes it hard to combine them. I was changing shades and palettes for over 2o minutes, while making this art. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h20m21s213.png)

Look at my baby! The hands are blending with the body a little too much. It's another shortcoming of using a uniform color palette. It's not like you can not draw like this, you just have to know how (I do not know how).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h20m53s537.png)

That was a rough point. To make the hands and feet separate from each-other and from the body, I had to outline them. Firstly, I tried black (my beloved), but it did not look very well. So I settled down on red. Unfortunately, now I had to outline the whole silhouette. I mean, it's not terrible. It does not ruin the art or anything, but I kinda liked it more without outline.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h21m21s773.png)

Paws got some more details and shading, body as well. The brighter line on the head is supposed to highlight the round shape. It does not work very well, so it will change on the next screen.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/03/vlcsnap-2025-03-03-19h21m57s449.png)

Final piece. Doing something from your head can be depressing, if you can not do it right, but it's also so rewarding. 

Do your thing, let your imagination work and follow whatever it tells you. It's much more fun than following some boring books or even more boring people that have read them. Share your amazingness with others. Be the most amazing reason for *"what the f\*ck"* they will ever have!

Thank you for reading and not giving up!
### #23 A little killer to get rid of your doubt (not for free of course)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/23-little-killer-to-2/
Last updated: 2025-02-25T22:14:32.000Z
Straight to the point. Improvise! Have a plan, but if it stops you from acting, it's better to just go with the flow. You will not be prepared for 95% of important things in your life, get used to it. Sometimes it works like on war, it does not matter right or left, you have to move.

The one thing I want you to **learn from me: do not expect anything, any result, any success. Just do what you can and a little more. Then, if you will succeed in something, it will be a nice surprise. If not, well... you did your best and that matters the most.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h04m40s585.png)

Before I started learning, I always wanted to be able to portray characters from books and other media, not necessarily in the most accurate way possible, but for fun. Well, I still can't do that, but I can at least try. This is going to be chibi version of a book character (from one of the best books of all time). As you can see, I planned to draw her sitting with her legs pulled out towards the viewer. Lets just say... it did not work out...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h05m24s384-1.png)

Here are the major outlines. Her head, is reaaaaaaaaally wide. It's characteristic for chibis, but I went a little overboard. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h05m49s593.png)

On the more positive note, I'm getting much better with the eyes! But here I stumbled upon another problem. Drawing a character with black hair, dark eyes and without any characteristic traits is difficult. You have nothing to focus on. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h06m10s609.png)

Because of the hair color, I didn't know how to "let know" that her left eye is slightly covered by her hair. It just looks derpy.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h06m22s107.png)

With the minimal shading. If you wonder - straight face is canon.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h06m33s517.png)

Here's where the "feet problems" started. Apparently, I have no idea how a sitting person looks like. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h06m58s472.png)

Her hair looks dull, so I added always helpful random brighter shapes. Also, my vision changed to a more simplistic one, of a standing character.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-25-22h07m46s726.png)

Look! She is not that wide anymore! Yea, no matter how long I was looking at that head, it just wasn't hitting me. Now she is (not very) happy little egg. 

She definitely could use some polishing, but I started really late and didn't have much time and energy to keep going. 

To be honest I like her, simple, cute and faithful to the source (as good as I could ok?). I'll try to make better chibis in the future, but it's a decent start, I would say.

Anyway, it's late. Thank you for reading and not giving up. Just do your best and the success might come. It will be much more enjoyable as a surprise, believe me.
### #22 Spiky letdown/hard to kill
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/22-spiky-letdown-hard-to-kill/
Last updated: 2025-02-23T19:04:09.000Z
I'm not gonna lie to you. Two tittles is the only interesting thing in this one. 

I had such a great idea for an art. It would be cool, epic and immersive. It would be the pinnacle of my abilities as today. 

After over 2 hours of tries, starting over, rearranging, frustration and anger, I could not do it. No matter how hard I tried, I would just not work. 

Instead, I made this. I feel so terrible, even about not liking it. It's not its fault that I am its creator, it should not receive any hate. 

I'm so mad at myself, why I can't just do one thing right? 

I will still love this cactus, he will not suffer because of my incompetence. From now his name is Capy, and he is a part of the family. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-23-19h25m40s469.png)

I do not really want to show you the process, it's nothing worth your time. But I will do it for Capy, he deserves it. Starting with the shape as always.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-23-19h25m54s838.png)

Simple shading, the only part that is important, is to make the dark parts as arcs. It creates an illusion of a round object (on the image it's not very well done, that's why it looks off)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-23-19h27m28s063.png)

Because of the bright colors, I added my favorite black outline, it also looks interesting with the pot (that will not be outlined).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-23-19h28m09s913.png)

Made the little stones and shaped the pot into a... I have no idea how this figure is called, pentagon? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-23-19h28m22s929.png)

Here I decided that I can not do a post about something so simple (in a bad way), so I wanted to add some background. And I also failed at that. For life, I could not think of any way how to make it look better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-23-19h28m57s741.png)

So we ended up like this. You know what? Screw it! I love it and nobody (even me) will change it. 

Here I add the second title. 

It might be something worse than I anticipated, but it's my work. My time and tries went into it. And it matters. Just like Capy, we might not be the most beautiful flower, but we are hard to kill. We will outlast and create something great, maybe not today, not tomorrow, but we will not stop! Together, we can continue our journey, every step is important.

Thank you for reading, writing it somehow helped. Hope my mumbling also helps you on your way. You can do it! I believe in you!
### #21 Have some fun
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/21-have-some-fun/
Last updated: 2025-02-18T21:49:07.000Z
Exactly what is in the title. Today is a fun day, no new technics, no insane sacrifices. Just a silly little pixel to celebrate my journey. You also need to relax. Enjoy your progress, no matter how small it seems, do something that will make you happy, because you deserve it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-21h56m06s591.png)

I wanted to draw a crow. I like crows, they are intelligent, can mimic sounds better than parrots and remember faces. Their cultural impact is also amazing, heralds of death, black shadowy figures in the dark. From the start I wanted to pixel one and today was perfect.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-21h56m32s234.png)

Not much development, but a little **tip: it's much easier to start on a bright figure and add dark elements than the other way around.** Even ifin the end, you will make the whole piece dark, it's easier to follow when it's lighter.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-21h58m45s705.png)

Good old method, straight lines (technical they are diagonal, but you get what I'm saying, do not be too technical, today is a chill day killjoy...) darker colors on the one side, lighter on the other.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-22h01m10s400.png)

Birb got a little massive. I fed him good, he can also have some fun today. The shadow on the belly is a little too big, it looks like the light source is straight from the top. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-22h02m29s641.png)

Red, dangerous eye and the beak. Nothing special, but still, I not so long ago even a simple thing like this would be impossible for me to even think of. Your work might also not look too impressive, but it is. Every new step is amazing and should be celebrated, in the endless grind we forget about it too much. Have fun at any point, you do not need to be at the top to do that!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-22h03m47s472.png)

Changed the shape of the beak and added my favorite chessboard pattern. It just looks so smooth. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-22h04m10s064.png)

Time to work on a cane. The idea of a cane with top shaped like a crow's head is taken from a book, cookie for you if you can say the title. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-22h04m29s272.png)

Intentionally or not, I still learned something. **Lesson: while making the wooden, just put vertical lines of the brighter and darker shade of brown.** Looks excellent. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-18-22h04m45s667.png)

A full art. It was not hard, but not everything has to be. Please, take time to stop for a moment and appreciate where you are and what you have done. Do not forget about yourself in this constant fight, you are already doing amazing, enjoy your work and smile! 

If I can do it, you definitely can.
### #20 Dark and a little darker
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/20-dark-and-a-little-darker/
Last updated: 2025-02-15T22:27:18.000Z
Wow, twentieth post?? And I'm still here? I do not think I have ever been dedicated to one anything for so long. From this special occasion, I want to thank you, for going all of this. I bet it was not easy, probably harder than for me. I hope whatever you are doing, you also do not stop pushing for your dream. They are important, you know? What is the sense of living without the dreams? 

Dreams are things impossible to reach. At least now. I think, paradoxically, dreams are not important, because we are supposed to achieve them. They are so valuable, because of things you have to give up for them. There is no dream that can be achieved without a sacrifice. Sometimes you have to lose everything to win everything. Sometimes you lose and gain nothing. This place is cruel, the best people with, on the first-hand sight, the smallest dreams have to give up so much, and some reach the stars without much effort. 

But we have to do it. We have to push, risk, rise and fall. If not, if we give up on the dreams, then me might not lose things that we have, but they become worthless. And for the rest of your life, you will ask yourself: "Could I do it? Maybe everything would have turned out ok?"

I do not have an answer, and I hate it. What can I sacrifice? Myself? People around me? What if I will reach my dream and find out that it's not that great?

We can only have hope, and do ours best. I wish that for you, so you will always have to, that in the end everything will be alright.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h32m46s008.png)

I know, I know. I said, no more black outlines, but it's a force of habit for me. It will take some time to change the method. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h32m58s469.png)

As some may recognize. Today I tried to not hard the Umbreon. I kept the "one color and one shade" method, but time without any model (I mean, I was looking at the official art, but no ready pixel art or anything like that)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h33m23s287.png)

The eye was such a hassle. You have no idea how many iterations it had. The rest is pretty standard. Shape and details.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h34m20s015.png)

Without my precious black lines, I had a problem to keep the consistent angle (Spoiler: and I did not manage to do that). That's why I made little lines to help me. Also, the head looks so terrifying with this eye, maybe I should have kept it. It's so menacing. The shading was made (literary) without thinking. I just followed what was on the original image.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h34m35s373.png)

More eyes! Yey! It was so frustrating to do, that I have to show you at least few of them.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h34m55s842.png)

This one is so sad. Look at this baby! He is almost crying. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h35m48s085.png)

Whatever he took, must be good... and illegal. He sees things beyond this realm.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h35m53s766.png)

Another aspect that was problematic was the head. On the original, he is looking back and has a shadow on the bottom half of the mouth and the neck. I had no idea how to recreate this without a black line to show where the mouth ends.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h36m15s418.png)

Now he is looking mad. Perfect! The shading on the leg also changed to show his belly a little. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h36m57s482.png)

The one-colored legs were looking kinda bad, so I changed them. The belly also evolved, but I can not tell why I decided that this is the correct shape, it just looks good.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h37m09s486.png)

Here, I'm still fighting with the chin. Maybe if I were better, I would be able to make a shade and outline the chin at the same time, but I'm not. Welcome to my site.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-15-22h37m42s253.png)

Final piece. I do not really think it ended up looking great, but it's the best I could do. Also, the back leg changed a little, to better to reproduce how it looks at the original image.

At the end, thank you for this journey. I never thought I was capable of such things, I only had hope (and a giant amount of self-hatred, but it's not required) when I was starting this project. As it's stated at the very start, I wanted to be able to finally give, not only take. I'm incredibly happy that I could give these 20 posts to you. If I made you smile or motivated you at least once, it was all worth it! I costed my a lot of sweat, tears, frustration. I lost count have many times I wanted to quit. I'm not a hero, full of talent, not an incredibly hardworking, honest guy who with a clear path ahead of him, I'm just a silly Citrus. If I can do so much, think what you can achieve! Please, do not give up, no matter how hard it is, I believe in you!
### #19 Not very impressed (he should be)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/19-not-very-impressed-he-should-be/
Last updated: 2025-02-13T22:16:39.000Z
Heyooooo! I have only one thing to say today (I still need some more time to think about the next BIG topic). My art was used on stream. Someone really chose it to represent part of their content. One small act, but it means more than a milion words.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-21h53m58s180.png)

Still working on humans. This time I was using other art as a template for a pose. It's much easier, and lets you focus more on the composition. I think, till you can naturally draw human with correct proportions, it's the better way. Also, I do not know if I should draw like a body out of sticks to better see the pose or what. Maybe I will try it next time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-21h56m35s668.png)

Little correction to the pose. He looks funny as hell. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-21h58m28s099.png)

How it's even funnier with the colors. Also, I try to use less of them. I have a tendency to make 30 shades of everything and then the whole art looks like it's blurred.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-21h59m32s817.png)

The hand looks so smooth. Only to colors, but well-placed, it can make all the difference.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-22h07m38s495.png)

Time for a leg day (sorta)! Another change I try to implement it to not outline everything with black. Yea, I have a lot of things to work on, and I'm still terrible at basics. Anyway, right shading is everything. No need for any more details. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-22h07m49s968.png)

This hand in pocket design is so brilliant. I wonder if I will ever be able to create projects like this on my own.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-22h08m55s912-2.png)

Little changes to the coat (the white outline was a mistake, ok?). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-22h09m06s965-2.png)

Nothing changed, but pants color and shading. It's honestly amazing. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-13-22h09m54s117.png)

I wonder if any one of you will recognize the character. Honestly, it looks soooo great and it was easy to do. 

Sorry for a little shorter post, but to be honest, I do not know what else to write. Just try following my steps and believe: it's easy. Two shades of every color, one main and one for shade. The least possible amount of details. Good luck! Remember, if I can do something, you can do anything!
### #18 The fights continue, we'll need an armor (thank God I had one in the basement)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/the-fights-continue-well-need-an-armor-thank-god-i-had-one-in-the-basement/
Last updated: 2025-02-13T21:16:51.000Z
I know, wow Citrus, so many arts in such a short time. You are such a great writer who cares about your audience. 

To be honest, I told my self that I will TRY to make two pixels a week instead of one. But it hit me, it's such a terrible way of thinking. This implies that every moment I can just stop or do not do commit to it even once, because it's only a try. Instead, I WILL do it! If I fail, fine! But I will do my best till the end!

It's lesson for today, do not try to do things, just do things! Failure is ok! You WILL do better!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h05m06s800.png)

I want to make better full body humans. It's so hard to find correct proportions and keep them. Now I kinda understand why artists need naked woman to pose for them... I have to find some too. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h15m27s996.png)

Because I had no idea how to set this guy up, I didn't follow my typical drawing procedure. Instead of the shape of the whole art, then filling and details, I made a few detailed fragments to have a reference point, for the proportions. I think it's the better way if you draw humans. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h19m46s849.png)

Left hand was sooooo difficult. I changed it like twenty times, I won't show all of it, but if I had to give some **advice: place one end of the limb, place the opposite one, and try connecting them together till they will look more or less natural.** Sorry, I was my method and I do not know any other.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h19m54s011.png)

After the "connection" make sure to make the limb look kinda natural. This poor boy got his hand broken in half. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h20m18s759.png)

Now it looks better, but still not perfect. The wrist is weird for me. The chest is funny looking. At the start I wanted to make it plait armor, but hands were hard to read on their own with so many different shades of gray and lines, that I decided to just give him a flag to fight for. That way he can hope he is dying for something.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h21m12s592.png)

The legs are also problematic, but fortunately, much simpler than the hands. Just make anything that do not look like your character should be on a wheelchair (picture related) and it will be good enough.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h21m45s541.png)

The light was irritating. I have no idea why, but the white was too bright? So I had to use really light gray instead. Funnily enough, in this background it looks almost as white. We have such a weir color perception.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h22m31s809.png)

I made the hands multicolored so it will seem like they are different parts of the armor. That was my idea of impelling the plated part. Do not throw away our ideas, they might not end up as you imagined them, but they can make great addiction. Your contribution and interpretation is what makes whatever you create truthy unique!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-09-22h23m21s444.png)

Some shading on the chest and light on the legs. They are the worst part, but to be honest, the arms took me such a long time that I didn't have energy for legs, lest. I said a million times I'm lazy, ok?

Anyway, thank you for reading! And remember, do not try things, DO things!
### #17 Hope, excitement and... cookies?
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/17-2/
Last updated: 2025-02-04T23:09:20.000Z
Halloooo! I'm not late this time (well, if we count that week start on Sunday, I am, but let's ignore that). No big talk this time, I feel like I was abusing your inability to talk too much lately. Just have hope and look for miracles. Necessarily both at the same time, they only work together. If you do not have hope, you will not be able to see miracles, and what can you hope for if not for a miracle?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h17m35s479.png)

This piece is similar to one of the previous one. And there is nothing you can do about it. I really like this style (it's also much easier than full body, but we do not talk about that), so I'll probably do one more like this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h17m54s917.png)

Empty lines always look so intimidating. Whenever I'm at this point, I start to doubt I can even make it look alive. But I do not stop, I have hope that I will manage. If not, well at least I tried, there was an opportunity for a miracle. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h18m31s073-1.png)

Let yourself make mistakes, do not be afraid of them. One in a million chance is still better than, giving up on a spot. If you do not believe me, believe in math, only smart people do math so they must be right.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h18m54s674-2.png)

I tried to make it more interesting by playing with the color palette. Instead of different shades of skin, I tried using blue for outlines and details.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h21m03s421-1.png)

My amazing planning skill strike again! I had to move eyes lower, and that's why parts of the hair are cut in half. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h21m14s890.png)

Not gonna lie. Half finished works like this are kinda scary. It's so rough, cut and plain. Even now, I have no idea how did I made it look better. In my theory, it's some kind of magic, we unconsciously reach some otherworldly power that makes things alive in our eyes.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h23m00s144.png)

Here! My greatest innovation. I tried to make hair look a little transparent by continuing the lash, when it should be covered. It does not look great, but I will never learn if I won't try.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h23m20s646.png)

My favorite light line is back! It's not even, as you can see. Another of my great inventions, I thought it will make parts of the hair look like on the different level.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h23m40s068.png)

The shade and a little change in hair color. All to make it more 3D like.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h24m06s840.png)

Last bits of hair and smoothing. **If you feel like something on yours drawing is not right, but you can't pinpoint what: you should check if the lines are not doubled somewhere.** 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h24m48s726.png)

A little light, looks cute and alive!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/02/vlcsnap-2025-02-04-23h25m38s744-1.png)

Wow, she is so excited! What does she see??? I want to see it too!!! (The answer is cookies, btw, so you know. I have cliffhangers too.)

As always, thank you for reading, remember to have hope and look for miracles! Life is much more fun this way!
### #16 Simple, yet fun
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/16-simple-yet-fun/
Last updated: 2025-01-29T20:15:15.000Z
I KNOW, I'M LATE! I'M SORRY, I DO NOT PLAN TO DISAPPEAR AGAIN, I SWEAR!

I'm currently during exams, so tired all the time, that's why I was late. Also, quality of the post and the art might be even lower than normally, readers discretion advised. It's soooooo hard to do anything when you just want to sleep for 3 days straight. On the other hand, every time I wanted to pixel, but I didn't I felt even worse. I guess it's today **lesson: it's better to push yourself just a little more, the pain of not doing what you love is greater than a little incontinence of being tired.**

I always loved this style and I knew I want to try to do something like this, after I started learning. It's really simple, but it looks so cool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h40m04s471.png)

Started with legs. After finishing, I thought it might be easier to start from the torso to set correct proportions. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h41m20s523.png)

This one is supposed to be a man in a trench coat, because I love them. I do not wear them at all (I'm not cool enough), but they look gorgeous!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h41m33s262.png)

Wow, so mysterious! As I said, do not expect some insane details here, it's a short, simple relaxing piece. You do not need to push your boundaries every time, it's good to make things also for your joy.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h44m23s348.png)

Now, he is going. The little shady part in between legs is incredibly important. It gives the illusion of 3D.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h45m58s804.png)

Added some more details to the coat. It's just a test what suits him, it will changes shortly.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h46m19s278.png)

He is hiding. I was afraid he looks like a bandit from a western now, but the effect is so funny that I had to keep it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h47m05s849.png)

Some shading always makes art more alive. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h47m16s970.png)

Here is a failed attempt to create the "light" and the "dark" side. It's much harder than just shading, I do not recommend. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-29-20h47m50s076.png)

Pretty cool. I really had fun doing that. That's important, do what brings you joy, it matters.

Thank you for reading, even this one! I was able to push thru, so you can definitely do it! I'm the lazy one here!
### #15 She is watching you... to keep you motivated
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/15-2/
Last updated: 2025-01-16T20:05:41.000Z
That was a such rollercoaster week for me. Firstly, one of my friends got into pixel art a little. Surely she would struggle and create awful things like me at the start, right? Wrong!!! She is amazing, making incredibly looking animations on her first try. I'm proud of her, but also jealous a little. I know I shouldn't, and I do not want to be mad at her, it's amazing that she can create beautiful art, but somehow I still a little am. Because of that I'm also incredibly angry at myself, I want to support her and help as much as I can, but I'm afraid I will not be able to put my heart in it. 

Sorry, I don't have any magical solution for this problem. If you will ever happen to be in the similar situation, just support your friends. Have fun together instead of comparing your arts.

Second thing is muuuuch funnier. This piece was made for my best friend. I always wanted to give him something created entirely by me, and that was my chance. 

I sent him this, we had a little talk, and then I wanted to send him time-lapse of my work (all of them should be on Twitter if you also, want to see. Unfortunately, their size is too big for this site, so I have to do it this way, I'm sorryyyyy...). He got confused because HE WAS SURE I just took a screenshot of someone's work and send to him. To be honest, I'm baffled as fuck. That my mediocre work was taken as art of some real artist.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h41m34s055.png)

I took inspiration from another pixelart. I loved the idea and wanted to try it on a different character. To be honest, looking at this I almost gave up, how can I even try to create something so complicated, with so many details and so much life in it. But you have to push through it, it will be better, and if not you will at least learn. **Lesson: Crossing your boundaries might be scary, but it's the best way of learning.** 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h41m50s773.png)

TOTALLY looks like an eye, no doubt about it. For real, I love pixelart for this. In normal art, the more an element resembles its real word counterpart, the better. Here I can draw two straight lines and it will mean nothing. Add a circle around it and suddenly it's a face. Our brain makes it possible, and it never fails to impress me.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h42m08s715.png)

Scary little demon. Another: Oh shit, I should give up moment, here. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h42m19s486.png)

This eye pattern is so pretty. I didn't manage to make it perfect but somehow with a little glimpse of light, it looks so cute.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h53m34s103.png)

Skin color is always such a hassle for me. It's always too white, too orange, too pink, too brown. I feel like every time I pixel face I have to use a different shade. Maybe it's normal, I should pick it, once rest of the art, like hair and eyes are done.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h54m02s538.png)

Giving shade to eyes it also much more important that I thought. Without it, they look plain and dead. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h54m10s068.png)

Here I wanted to show exactly how eye looks. Eyelashes also help to make it look more realistic, even tho they are just 2-3 lines of two colors.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h54m20s798.png)

Picture of the whole progress. As you can see, I gave a little shade to the pupil of the eyes, don't think this is necessary, but looks cool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h54m29s447.png)

Here is the glow up! I have no idea why interpret white object inside an eye as cute, but it's a trick you should remember. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-19h54m47s692.png)

Changed yellow parts to be more vibrant. I think it looks much better in contrast with the dark brown top and deep purple of the middle.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-20h00m00s802.png)

Yea, skin color changed again... I have no idea how to choose them. As you can see, little elements makes all the difference! These glowy parts are putting so much work.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-20h00m11s662.png)

The hair was too similar to the skin color, so I outlined it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-20h01m17s469.png)

Here's the magic, shade! I really like how simple they are to make. **Lesson: To make a shade just more or less follow the shape, make it bigger and more rough.** 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-20h02m12s494.png)

I added a second layer of outline on the hair, if the colors are clashing too much, it's a great solution. Also, to fill up the space, random shaped were added (you can see that on the final piece they are a little different. That's because my friend gave a fun idea what to do with them, but the change is so insignificant that I didn't record it) 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-16-20h03m37s436-1.png)

Changed the tone of the shade... Yea, she went thru more skin color changes than one famous singer, as well gave shade a little outline. I have leaving big plain, one colored spots like this, so I had to it.

I'm still so happy that it was mistaken as real work. Today's lesson is: **have fun with the others, but focus on your own journey. Not to compete with them, but to compete with yourself and change what is possible for you! I believe, you can do it (if I could, you are kinda required, I think)**
### #14 Let's test if I have learned anything...
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/14-lets-test-if-i-have-learned-anything/
Last updated: 2025-02-03T21:20:46.000Z
Spoiler: YES!

 I really can't believe that. I was noticing small improvements, but it's the first time I look at my creation and can say "WOW, I could never make something like this before". In case you did not notice (somehow), I'm always full of doubts. Do I really make progress? Do I try hard enough? Does any of that makes any sense, or should I just give up? And you know what? Screw these thoughts! I really used concepts that I found while practicing, I really learned!

It might look unimpressive compared to literary any other work of someone who has some talent, but I did it, I care about it, and I'm proud. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h15m44s806.png)

A little different approach this time. Because I knew that eyes are going to be the central point of the face, I drew them first. It might be a little easier than my usual: random shape, details later. Like this, you can easier follow the proportions. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h15m53s764.png)

It is also my first somehow successful attempt to make a little angle. I have zero 3D space awareness, so it's so incredibly hard to follow it consistently, but it's doable. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h16m14s706.png)

Doable does not mean easy or even decent, I had no idea how to position the ears...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h17m24s929.png)

Here again, instead of random shape, I tried to keep straight lines. It made everything easier to combine, but on the other hand, if I wanted to move or change anything it was hell. I still do not know which method is better. Maybe both have their uses in different scenarios.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h18m30s250.png)

First lesson used. This little light line is incredibly easy to make and looks amazing. Just make a straight line (a little more on one side and lacking a little on the other) in the lighter color, and then remove horizontal lines from it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h18m36s702.png)

New form of ears appeared. Do not get too attached, they are going to change soon.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h21m26s296.png)

Face details are next of my new skills (still work in progress, but I'm getting closer). Just 2, skin like, colors mixing and a little pink for cheeks. Looks cute and smooth.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h22m55s260.png)

Time for the hoodie details. I think it's the easiest piece of clothing to draw and is also fashionable and cute (who does not like hoodies???). Every part can have a different shade (or even color, if you are brave enough).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h23m03s297.png)

Do not ask me why I thought that the light part should be LITERARY LIGHT UNDER HER CHIN?!?!? I learned a lot, but I'm still dumb, ok?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h23m09s666.png)

Full picture. Looking at whole art like this makes it easier to spot mistakes and inconsistencies. For example. I wanted the right hand to be smaller, but not half the size of the left one. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h26m20s108.png)

I knew that I wanted to make her hair long. It's just hard if you are already working on something in this area. That's why I prefer to add background elements last, even tho I have to change parts of already done things sometimes.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h26m37s905.png)

Aaaaaand hair is gone. That was the fastest haircut in the universe. All because, I randomly decided to add wings. Yea, I still have to work on planning my drawings. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h28m42s187.png)

Final details to the hoodie. I made it slimmer and made sleeves stand out more. And yes. I finally realized how shades work and made the darker parts on the top.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h29m21s854.png)

Because I was not satisfied with how the bottom of the hair looked last time, I took a different approach. Instead of making straight lines and then cutting from them, I started from the bottom with an already torn design.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h29m43s794.png)

My last lesson learned in this piece. This method of changing colors (the one that looks like chessboard on the hair)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h30m10s317.png)

Simple, yet effective background. It always looks nicer than just a person levitating in the void.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-11-22h30m27s264.png)

Final art. It's not perfect. It has flaws. But I's good enough for me. And that counts. You also are doing great. Might not see it, but the closest things are always the hardest to see.
### #13 Jump around
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/13-jump-around/
Last updated: 2025-01-05T19:05:42.000Z
Heyoooo! It's me again. Expected someone else? Maybe one day I'll let someone else write one of those posts, but I do not know if that will be able to match MY level. I'm way too unique. And you also are! It's awesome, you can't meet two people that are the same. Everyone has their positive and negative gifts, they just have to realize it. 

Today was a great pixeling day. It does not mean that everything went smoothly. But I had fun working on this one. I think it is the recipe for happiness. Might as well make it today's **lesson: Do things that make you proud and happy! That's the only requirement, you do not have to be good at them, you do not have to spend tons of money on them, just be proud and happy**!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h28m00s656.png)

Green ball. I can't believe it, but I only need one or two tries to make a nice circle (I know it's not a circle, but the rule applies anyway, you are such a killjoy...). When I remember how many tries I needed at the start, it's kinda amazing.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h28m15s623.png)

Just look at this handsome fella! He looks so polite, but also I'm sure he has a lot of interesting things to say. Too bad he does not have a mouth.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h29m27s319.png)

How he is ready to join the society. Without being silly for a moment. Look at the light green squares in the down-right part. They make such a difference, definitely worth remembering.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h29m49s731.png)

For some reason, putting his eyes further apart made him look like he is going to the left. I do not really know how to comment on it. It just works.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h33m28s362.png)

Originally, my idea was to put him in a castle or cave. That's why the bricks are here. But they looked ugly for me, so I decided to change the scenery.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h34m05s189.png)

Now he is jumping his way to the surface! Go little one, go!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h34m35s718.png)

Now he is one happy slime. Free to jump around. You are probably familiar with the way I make ground, but just in case. Put random short lines and shapes of light brown and some darker gray lines. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2025/01/vlcsnap-2025-01-05-19h35m29s507.png)

He can travel to wherever he wants now. The clouds are made by making random white shapes with flat bottoms and outlining the bottom and one part with light blue. Easy to make and looks nice.

Thank you for reading. Please, be happy, we do not have much time here and definitely should not waste it on sadness.
### #12 Small creature on a small day
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/12-small-creature-on-a-small-day/
Last updated: 2024-12-29T19:42:30.000Z
Hi. Today is one of these days, I can't do shit. It's not like I can do amazing things normally, but today is even worse than normally. But I really love writing for you and whole premise is to show good and bad days. Here it comes.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h12m53s700.png)

As you can see, it's in 64x64 grid instead of 128x128\. As I said earlier, my pixel today were nit pixeling. It happens, no matter what you are doing. Remember that one bad day does not make you a bad artist (I'm bad at it every day), player or whatever you are trying to achieve. Do best as you can and that's enough. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h13m21s359.png)

It's supposed to be a squishy, cute, white creature. If you showed it to any child, it would end up in its nightmares. To be honest, I gave up at this point, only came back after a while. I often happen, I hate what I do so much that I just decide that I do not want to continue. Drawing is bad, so here lays today's **lesson: If you leave anything in a state that you hate it, you will hate it forever. Only your work can make it better. It may be a drawing, test result or even your body. Work is the only way out of this, and the most satisfying one.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h13m31s766.png)

It can see your sins. All of them. It judges...

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h13m48s720.png)

It decided that it likes you! Congratulations, little demon is now your friend. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h14m17s843.png)

A little asymmetrical and flat, like a "*Can't show this joke on a Christian website".* But it is cute, big eyes and an UWU mouth always works. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h14m25s649.png)

These two on its head are supposed to be little fat bums. If you can't tell... I sure as hell can't.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h14m57s671.png)

Still a little rough, but head is almost done. On the other hand, I would not like to get into the hands of a person that massacred it's feed like this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h15m45s968.png)

A little gray details on paws (or flaps, I have no idea). Also now the feet is ready for tortures again.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h19m00s317.png)

To make it look less flat (and because my ambition suddenly hit me in the back of my head with the frying pan) I tried to add some shade. Yea, you do not have to be a magician to predict that it will disappear on the next screen.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-29-20h19m22s585.png)

Finished thing. Simple, but kinda cute. Sometimes you can't do more, and that's ok. See you next time, hopefully with something more impressive. BA BAY!
### #11 The long and cold sleep
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/11-the-long-and-cold-sleep/
Last updated: 2024-12-25T22:41:13.000Z
Brace yourself, this one is long.

Hi! How are you? It's our first Christmas together. We probably should exchange wishes, shouldn't we? If we have to, I wish you joy and understanding. Joy of the amazing journey, and understanding that sometimes to make it even more amazing you need to stop feeling joyful for some time. You can't talk, so I'll wish me on your behalf, ok? "Citrus, I wish you unlimited supply of alcohol and everyday sleep till noon." Omg what a wishes, that's what exactly what I want, thank you!

On a more serious note, (I'll try to say it quickly, it's only the third interlude before the art, do not leave yet, please!!!), I thought that with time I'll start to like my own works... well... I do not. I know they are getting better, do not get me wrong. But it means I also notice more mistakes and what to create better things. It's just a quick note, the progress won't mean you will like your work more. Even less, I dare to say. It's normal, be prepared for it, you ARE getting better! Do not let this feeling stop you.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-22h54m41s599.png)

This piece is my most advanced one so far, first 128x128 one but also first animation (even if simple). I'll be using many tools here, like down-scaling (I have no idea if it's the right term, but I do not care, we already established that you have no voice). I do not think that it changes much in terms of learning. All of it I could do manually, it would just take a little longer. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-22h58m09s233.png)

Same as always, the silhouette and colors. My best advice is to start working on layers, I didn't do it on this one, but man, it would be helpful (I imagine).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h00m32s781.png)

That's where I "down-scaled" the fox. It didn't really change anything, just fixed my absolutely fucked up sens of the proportions. The same, I would, I achieve if I listened TO MY OWN ADVICE and properly mark the areas that I wanted to draw in at the start. So please: do that.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h03m36s358.png)

The damage has been more or less fixed. Idk why but I really like the leg. Don't ask me why... I just think it looks nice... really nice leg.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h05m40s154.png)

One of MANY changes of heart. It's supposed to be a little burrow, but only brown, it looked like the fox was laying in the puddle of mud.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h08m07s197.png)

The details, here I really felt my progress. It took me like no time to get it right. If something like this happens to you, cherish it, it is the legendary *progress*, not the amazing instant change of your skills*.* It's not a movie (if it is, it's a terrible one, they should have canceled this shit).Also, as you probably noticed my keen-eyed friend, I like to surround every thing I draw with black. But in this case the cave was black, so it didn't work. **Lesson: you can use any much darker color to outline the shape, if the black does not work for any reason.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h15m47s520.png)

Here I did my very usual shading. Dark color on the outside and one middle line to smooth the transition. The shape of the cave also changed, it'll be a common trope. Yes, I also remembered to turn on the preview... 25 minutes into the drawing... Did I mention that I'm completely unorganized failure?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h18m35s843.png)

Now it looks, a little bit, like a cave. There were many "why not-s" during this sequence. Make some weird linear shading on the cave entrance? Why not? Surround it in some gray mass? Why not? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h22m10s781.png)

Usual, random bullshit go stuff. Something looks flat? Add random dots on it. It's not gonna make it worse. The two gray parts in the corners are supposed to make it look like a 3d mound. It does not work very well, but making it look more realistic is far beyond my skill. (There is a little plant, say hello to it!)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-25-23h28m28s702.png)

There is no point in showing the creation of every little being, so I'll summarize it here. The most important part are the shades. Really! These random pools of gray carry the whole work. The rest is just random brown shapes with a little "snow" on top. Making them is also incredibly easy, just make a darker (than a ground) shape roughly resembling the object, and it improves the feeling of it ten times! If you wonder, what is this panel on the bottom. It's my failed attempt to animate the snow, do not worry about it.

The whole animation thing is the art of making many really small changes. There is no much to show, because the layout will differ from program to program, and the rest you can see with your bare eye.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/Snow-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/Snow-1.gif)

Here you have both finished png and the animation. 

In the end, I want to thank you for coming here. It really means a lot, that you can go thought even the longer posts like this one. Hope my effort also helps you a little bit. Do not stop on your journey, I believe in you!
### # 10 May be not the brightest, but warm and cosy campfire
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/10-may-be-not-the-brightest-but-warm-and-cosy-campfire-2/
Last updated: 2024-12-25T21:09:43.000Z
Hi! I did not disappear this time. I count it as a progress and expect a praise... c'mon. 

This week it was my first try to speed-draw. The set time was 30 mins so it's a little lest polished than my other works... you won't probably see a difference, it's as bad as all others.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h32m22s147.png)

Also, I think this is my first time drawing something with a background. I really liked it and you should also try. Started with just some lines and colors to have a reference point. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h33m01s107.png)

I have a giant problem with placing parts in correct places, that's why you will see a lot of placeholders like this. **Lesson: If you work on some kind of landscape, place random shapes so you will be able to see the proportions and plan better.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h34m28s038.png)

Wanted to make a campfire in the night. The suffed heart in the middle is actually the fire, believe or not.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h37m04s569.png)

Fire is so interesting to draw. It's really hard to catch its ethereal nature, it looks like solid and liquid at the same time. I want to try portraying it more often, if I master it, I can add it to literary anything to make it look cool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h38m53s610.png)

Still not quite it, but the single pixels at the top are the most important. Because of their disconnection to the center, they add fluidity and illusion of movement (or I'm just incredibly sleep-deprived and passing out, and that's why they seem to be moving for me). 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h39m14s484.png)

The bright, strong center makes sure that you know there is the core of the campfire. Also, it's yellow... I like yellow... so it’s the most important part, and you can not do anything about it!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h39m49s770.png)

This one is here to show that you should not stress if one part is looking out of place. The contexts adds a lot of clarity. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h41m45s165.png)

Here I started working on the "dark forest" in the back. As always, first the shape, then filling, lastly the details.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h41m54s705-1.png)

These lines are crucial to determine if your next planned scene takes too much space. Use them as a guide.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h43m57s503-1.png)

The sun raising, as it always will, no matter how dark the night is. Remember that!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h46m04s065-1.png)

I saw this fascinating way of connecting two colors. Typically, I just put something with a tone in between the two. This one takes more time, but looks unique (it's not finished here, do not scream)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h46m12s459-1.png)

Some moon and stars for the night sky. Just place white dots in random places, not too close to each-other, and it looks cool enough.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h46m23s277.png)

The only space that was flat and ugly was the ground. So I tried (key word) to add some lightning to to imagine.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h46m35s482.png)

It's the only way I can draw ground. Just place dark-brown dots on light-brown background. Later I add gray dots too, but it's too advanced for a guide like this one.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h48m54s207.png)

Cut the back "dark forest" part a little. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-18-20h49m18s137.png)

The proportions are not perfect, but the first time they won't ever be. You should also try out more styles and methods of what ever you are doing. Just a little change can make all the difference. It will keep the thing fresh, exciting and challenging! 

The time-lapse will be on Twitter, as it always should (if I do not forget hehe)
### #9 Weirdly hopeful capybara
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/9-weirdly-hopeful-capybara/
Last updated: 2024-12-14T19:54:26.000Z
Well... I'm sorry? I went missing for so long. Some part of me wish I could say that something terrible happened: that both of my arms broke, or I miraculously survived an assassination attempt from a person whose son lost sight because of my terrible art. But I have to be honest, I am lazy, disorganized and constantly procrastinate. On the other hand, this whole project was supposed to show that even me can still do something... So let's say it was my first big failure on my path. It will maybe happen to you too. If so, look at me, just because you stumbled does not mean that your work was not worth it and that you can't continue chasing your dream. The ABSOLUTELY WORSE thing you can do is to give up. It does not matter how much you fall down or how long you stayed there, if you are still trying you are the winner. Please, forgive me for this disappearance. It will happen again... But I will come back! No mater what! That's my promise to you! I will not leave you!

A smaller but incredibly important talk here. Let's just say that during my break something happened, but instead of terrible it was amazing, more than that, even life-saving. I don't want to get into more details, but just remember this thing for me. DO NOT LOSE HOPE. No matter how bad the situation looks, now deep you are and how little chance of success there is, never stop looking for a possible solution. The miracles happen, really! You just need to keep your eyes open for them!

Now to the drawing. As I said in the announcement, the form changed a little. It's decently not perfect, but it just means it fits perfectly on this website.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h55m48s363.png)

This was my first time using Aseprite, but the drill is all the same. At the start, the rough shape.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h56m15s360.png)

Later we add the details, not exactly how they are going to look, but to know if the proportions are right and if something needs more space.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h56m27s794.png)

Like here, because I added little ear shape I knew that I have to change the neck to make it look better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h56m47s825.png)

The first colors are always semi-random. Just pick whatever looks nice and go with it. You will only discover if the tone is right after you add more details.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h57m02s781.png)

Shading on this piece is questionable, do not try to make sens of it. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h57m20s103-1.png)

These brown stains have some purpose, I'm sure... just not exactly what it is.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-18h58m40s069.png)

Now the light is all over the place. At least it looks nice, the brown colors are really smooth to look at.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h00m07s634.png)

And here the trouble begin. As always, I try to fill the blank spaces. And as always, I go way overboard with it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h00m37s358.png)

The plus of the new system is that you can see more details. The minus is that, you do not always see the full picture (the little "preview" in the right corner will show it most of the time, but sometimes I change it to show me some part that I want to examine closer). I will try to look for frames with the whole thing on it, but it might not always be possible. As I said, the new solution is better, but far from perfect.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h00m45s445.png)

The real madness begins. I very often hyperfixate on, filling every pixel with plain space. That's how the little monsters like this appear.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h01m05s284.png)

Also, made the stain on the next smaller, it looked like a bruise for me.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h01m17s699.png)

Now the capy has some proper chad chin! 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h01m47s835.png)

Overall, too clustered for me. The lighter part on the back also looks way too weird.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-19h02m29s425.png)

Made the back patch smaller, what made the capy look better. And immediately ruined it with this weird brown neck shade. At this point, you should not be surprised that I have no idea what am I doing.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/12/vlcsnap-2024-12-14-20h38m46s795.png)

The final piece. For such a long break, it's not that bad. I mean, it's still terrible, but I can see some light at the end of that tunnel (do not get fooled: IT'S A TRAIN, RUN!!!).

Now, it's the time for the great final! The thing that was stopping me for so long!

On Twitter there will be a time-lapse of the full process so you can check every detail yourself!
### A Little update
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/a-little-update/
Last updated: 2024-11-18T18:08:51.000Z
Wow, we didn't see each other in so long, huh? Over a month? Man, I really am a terrible writer to leave you for so long... I'm incredibly sorry. No excuses. I'm just incredibly lazy, and the smallest problem takes me so much time to solve. But here I am again! No talk on this one, next drawing is terrible, but I have a lot to say... I missed our little talks...

My original form of creating these posts became obsolete. Normally, I was just exporting a PNG after every MM (major moment). But because of slowly increasing resolution, as well as number of mistakes and retires, it became impossible to say what is an MM. That's why I brainstormed a new formula (ask me someday about thought process if you want to have a hearth attack or/and see how the psychopath thinks). I will record all of my drawing process, take singular scenes from it to comment, as well as create a little time-lapse so you can see every second and check whatever part you like.

Hope you will like this new form of our journey, if you will see some room for improvement (except my skills, they are a lost cause) I would greatly appreciate feedback.

Anyway, love you guys and hope your journey is going smoother then mine.
### #8 Little lizard, giant hope
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/8-little-lizard-giant-hope-2/
Last updated: 2024-10-19T20:40:32.000Z
Hello! I'm so happy that you are here! Why? No reason, do I need one? If I can be mad without any cause, I can also be happy. That also applies to you. This word is a cruel and unforgiving place. But you can change it... with a smile! 

Anyway, this one was made for my friend that is planning to start her internet career. Maybe by the time you are reading this, she is already famous! That would be funny. 

If you are learning like me, ask any friend what animal they are and what are their favorite colors. It's great practice as well as a fun little present. If you are afraid that they will not like it, think: how many times someone put their sweat and hearth into something for you, and you didn't like it? Zero? That is what I thought, sometimes the act of spending time to make a thing for someone is making this thing worth more than any "perfect" shop gift. If no one ever made anything for you... you are lying. I'm doing all of this mess just FOR YOU! Enjoy, it's my gift.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.png)

I have no idea why this shape went so well. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.1-1.png)

Little adjustments.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.2.png)

Yea, I went a little overboard with red in some places. I was excited ok???

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.3.png)

This method of lightning is new for me but looks sooooo cool! Instead of making dark and light half, you can just make some pattern on top, that way it looks like light is directly above it. And is cool... so cool.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.4.png)

Paws were too boring, so gave them red stripes as well. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.5.png)

Colors were clashing too much in my opinion, so I added lighter gray near the red parts.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.6.png)

A little more love for the paws!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.7.png)

I had no idea what to do with the head. The typical solution of *random similar color placement* didn't work very well, so I gave him a helmet like pattern. That way he looks some intimidating.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/11.8-1.png)

Final piece. Made the red parts more vibrant and smoothed some parts with very dark gray. Looks decent for my second 64x64\. My friends said it looks 10/10, very handsome boy. 

You! Share your work with your friends and close ones! It gives great motivation to improve and makes for a perfect gift!

I'm sure everyone will love it!
### #7 We got a long climb before us (and that's good)
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/7-we-got-a-long-climb-before-us-and-thats-good/
Last updated: 2024-10-15T20:13:21.000Z
You know what really makes me stop enjoying doing all of this? Other people. Solution? I just have to eliminate every single one of them. Problem solved and everyone (me, there is literary no one else left) is happy.

But really, whenever I see someone's work with a title like "oh just a quick draw that I made with 2 colors on my phone using only my pinky finger, while I was hanging up-side down and being eaten alive by a ferocious ferret, don't be too harsh, I know, it's not perfect" and it's 20 times better than anything I can produce, no matter how hard I will try... I just don't want to do this anymore. We got so many amazing artists already, what can I achieve? 

When thoughts like that appears, we often forget what really matters. It's not the goal, the glory, the podium, the laurel wreath on ours heads. It's the journey. 

It's the journey, where we learn, grow, smile and cry. Where we make mistakes and miracles. Where we meet people and share ours journeys. 

Without it, reaching your goal is pointless. You are going back to being that same old person you were before. You actually didn't accomplish anything.

So remember. You are not worse than someone! You are not behind or too slow! They have their journey and you have yours. You might learn from them, you might share your experiences and even walk together for some time. **But it is yours and only yours! Enjoy it! Cry about it! Do whatever you want! It's your time to shine!**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.png)

It's my first time working on 64x64 scale, and it was awesome and incredibly hard at the same time.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.1.png)

As you can see, I wanted to make mountains. The start is no different, place the shapes, fill them with color and decide what to do next.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.2.png)

Shapes are always imperfect, at the first try. Do not panic, just smooth them a little. Lines should be schematic, for example: one slope should be made only with 1 to the right, 2 up, lines. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.3.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.4.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.6.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.7.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.8.png)

Here you can see that I started the shades. You can also see that I'm totally incompetent and somehow on the middle mountain shade is on the right, which indicates that light is from the left. But i at the same time, somehow the same exact mountain casts a shadow on the left one... that should be completely lighted. **As you can see, lightning and shades are like shapes at the start, make random ones and then decide which one to keep.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.10.png)

Now it makes more sense, right? Wrong! Mountains on the bright side are darker than on the dark side.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.11.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.13.png)

Here I fixed that and added a little second layer to the river.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/10.14-1.png)

Final piece. As always, it's awful and I hate it. **But it's the part of my journey and I cherish every step on it. You also should! I believe in you and good luck on your one**!
### #??? The Gallery Of Mistakes
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/gallery-of-mistakes/
Last updated: 2024-10-15T18:54:44.000Z
I almost made a terrible, well... *mistake* of naming this post "The gallery of shame". But it's very important to remember that blunders are not only natural and inevitable, but also desirable! You can not learn if you don't make any mistakes. Quoting someone much smarter than me: "*You mostly failed. This is life. The longer you live, the more you fail. Failure is the mark of a life well lived."*

Not every step will be a perfect dancing move, not all of them will even be in the right direction, but that doesn't matter, as long as we are still moving! You are still capable of great things, believe!

 This is The Gallery, here I will present all of my failed attempts, things that I started and didn't finish or that just didn't satisfy me. 

If you want, feel free to finish any of the drawings posted here, they deserve it.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/4.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/5.3.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/9.5.png)
### #6 Torch see a better day
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/6-torch-see-a-better-day/
Last updated: 2024-10-05T21:09:52.000Z
I don't know to say. Just be nice to each other. You don't know what someone is going through. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.1.png)

Warning: this one is going awful. I just don't have the strength to try harder. Sorry. If you also have a bad day, don't give up, ok? Sometimes it's the only thing we can do. That's enough, I'm still proud of you. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.2.png)

As you can see, there was a lot going back and forth. Let's refresh one of the past lessons. **Do not worry, that thing that you are drawing looks flat and ugly, first of all you need shape, texture and details comes after.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.3.png)

Decided that bigger flame looks better. **Another past lesson: shape will change, it's normal, do not stick your first sketch, if something looks better, just add it.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.4.png)

Started adding lightning on the handle.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.5.png)

Here I thought it looked stupid with the brighter part near the flame, so I changed the colors around. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.6.png)

Finished light and added some texture to the metal. **Just a few lines of similar color makes all the difference.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.7.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.8.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/8.9-1.png)

These 3 do not require in depth explanation, I think. **Lesson: if colors clash with each other too much, add something in between them. Like a darker version of a brighter color, like I did here.**

I'm sorry for such a short post. I promise I will fight on. If I can't give up, you also can't! Go for it, my friend, we need some bad days, how would we distinct the good days without them?
### #5 Hard rock
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/5-hard-rock/
Last updated: 2024-10-03T21:21:48.000Z
Hi. You have no idea how close we were to never seeing each other again. This one was so extremely hard to do. Not because drawing was hard, but because I could not find any strength to start. Every try seemed pathetic to me. Maybe I liked my previous one so much (the blue fox, you don't have to check. I got you ;) ). No matter what I started working on, it was just worse. But we don't give up. We learn! **Today's lesson: learning curve is not a straight line** (wow, that sounds so stupid and brilliant at the same time). **Some days, you won't be able to progress or even recreate things that were simple for you yesterday. That's normal, don't worry about it. Your average skill is still increasing.** For example: I always took me like 25 to 40 minutes and many breakdowns to decide on a shape of whatever I tried to draw. Now it only takes me 20 to 30 minutes. It's not some mind-blowing change, but after some time it will be 10 to 20 minutes, after some more (much, much more) I will be able to make correct shapes on the first few tries. **You are also doing amazing, if some day you could make one push-up more, congratulation! You progressed! If now you need only 3 tries to pick the right color to match something, instead of 6 (like me, sob...), you also got better!**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.png)

Like I said, it was really a struggle to make this one. I tried many things like books or crows (what? I really like books and crows) but it all failed, and I left them unfinished. So this time I decided on something that I can't fuck up (oh how little did I know). Time to rock! *Rolls not included* 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.1.png)

I didn't know how to fill up the middle, so I added some cracks.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.2.png)

I liked how they looked, so added some more.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.3.png)

Changed the color and stared adding shade. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.4.png)

Shade on top and some softening colors around the dark cracks. It makes them less stand out and feel more like part of the picture. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.5.png)

Changed color again, yea, this one was extremely chaotic and always felt wrong. Don't worry, it's only going downhill from here.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.6.png)

I thought that there can be one main crack and some smaller ones, so I made it darker so it looked deeper.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.7.png)

Here, all reason flew out the window. First, things around the cracks are now trying to follow the shade and light (trying is the key word here). Furthermore, I added a second layer of shade. **Second lesson of today: Do not add too many variants of the same color close to each other. It becomes hard to read and work with.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.8.png)

Here I was completely lost. Half of the picture was filled so much that you can not see what is happening, and the other one looks blank and empty.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.9.png)

I had no idea how to solve the first problem, but we already know how to deal with the second one. From the very first lemon!!! If something looks plain, add little spots of similar color. It also helped to break borders between layers of light. **Lesson: If the light parts, look too separately, let a little color from the darker part "leak" into the lighter one.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/7.10-2.png)

It works on dark parts too. This rock ended as one giant mess, but that's alright. We are making progress, slow but stable. 

**You! Don't let one bad day (or bad week or two) stop you and ruin all that you already achieved! Next one is going to be better!**

OK GOODBYE!
### #4 Fox that looks into the future
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/4-fox-that-looks-into-future/
Last updated: 2024-10-03T21:22:50.000Z
This one was made to celebrate something and also test my skills. It took a long time and had many retries, but I promised to show everything, so here we go.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.png)

I wanted to draw a blue fox made of jelly. Head is going to move a lot because my vision as clear as lungs of someone who was smoking for 30 years.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.1-1.png)

I took inspiration for eyes from another art. I have absolutely no idea how to make them, and this looked cute. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.2-1.png)

Head moved again! Also, this body shape took me so much time. It always looked so unnatural and not like an alive fox. **Next lesson: don't hyperfixated at body shapes of alive things, small additions will make a whole difference** (you will see).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.3.png)

And I immediately got fixated about the tail. Really, don't worry about this.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.5.png)

See? With the legs, the body looks much better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.6.png)

Unfortunately, I lost some of the coloring process. You have to believe me that it was totally random. I painted all in blue, then added mouth and ears. After this, it was just a process of: take a random amount of different color here... looks good? Yes? Leave. No? Go back. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.7.png)

**Another lesson: If you do some kind of pattern (like this tail), be sure that every layer will start the same, otherwise, it looks terrible.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.8.png)

The middle was looking a little too cluttered for me. Deleted the paws and tried to make the pattern on the torso smaller.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.9.png)

Finally decided to remove it completely. **Lesson number 3: pattern might look cool, but visual clarity is sometimes lost because of it. It's a double-edged sword, use it carefully.**

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.10.png)

After base was finished, I stared working on the *jelly* part of the "jelly fox". I had no idea how to do this. My thought process was that jelly shines in the light. Yea... Did I mention I have absolutely no clue about art?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.11.png)

Yes. I added two different sources of light on two sides of the drawing. What are you going to do about it? 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.12.png)

Light and shade, very powerful weapon, unfortunately, I don't have hands.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/10/6.13.png)

The body looked dry and didn't match the head, so I added some shade to (I think) correct side.

Final piece. To be honest? It does not look like "jelly fox" at all. But it does not look bad either (if you squint your eyes and ignore second light). It's strange, but I really feel like I'm getting better at this (hey, I heard that laugh, it wasn't nice!). Anyway, I hope your future will be as bright as this poor fox. Goodbye!
### #3 Even the biggest schools are made of small fish
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/3-even-the-biggest-schools-are-made-of-small-fish/
Last updated: 2024-10-03T21:22:13.000Z
To be honest. I feel good. It's weirdly satisfying to have a project like this to work on. It might not be world-changing, one for a lifetime thing, but I'm happy that I'm doing it. If you don't feel good right now, try not stressing about it too much (yea, I know it's not that simple but at least try). I also have days when I cannot imagine being happy, days that force you to your knees, when you feel like it's over, nothing good will ever happen to you. But better days will come, maybe not today, not tomorrow, but you will be happy again, trust me (why would I lie to you?). Do something simple, go for a walk, workout just a little bit, cook something amazing (or terrible, both are good). That's all I can give to you, that's all I do. But remember, you are not alone in this, I believe in you!

Today I'm back at 16x16 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/3.1.png)

I wanted to do a fish, maybe shark? I wish to be able to draw every animal, with my own little twist. Fox made out of jelly? Why not? Fiery panda? Of course! Right now I'm limited by my abilities, but we will get there, there is no need to hurry.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/3.2.png)

It looks cute, definitely not a ruthless predator but cute.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/3.3.png)

Now it's scary (tell him that he is scary, he is doing his best ok?!). Unfortunately, drawings like this look extremely flat. Fortunately, we know how to deal with it from our lemon (see? Progress has been already made!).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/3.4-1.png)

Added some U-shaped lines so it will look like it's 3-dimensional a little. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/3.5.png)

Some more colors to fill the blank spaces.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/3.7.png)

Final image. I really like that one. Not the most sophisticated, but solid and smooth. Thank you for reading, stay safe and never give up on your dreams, one step at the time you will make it!
### #2 One little step at the time
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/2/
Last updated: 2024-10-03T21:22:06.000Z
Welcome again. I'm extremely surprised that you are still here after that awful lemon of mine, but I appreciate that. Today, I followed my own advice and have drowned random thing from my sounding. Behold: Xbox controller from my desk.

It was really hard to get to work, I was tired and discouraged after my first try. It was soooooo bad. But I pushed through, and it's today's lesson. You will often feel like you can't continue anymore, like you are done. No you aren't, you can go as long as you breathe, so take a deep breath in and go. Without thinking, just stand up and do want you want to do. C'mon! I'm waiting!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/-2-1.png)

For some reason, my canvas changed to 32x32, but I'm already terrible at Pixel art, so I decided that it will not make much difference. As you can see, you want to get proper shape at the first try, but don't worry, just polish it a little.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/2---11-.png)

See? Much better.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/-2.2.png)

I don't have much to add controller is pretty flat and does not have too many elements, that's why I choose it. Ours progress might not be visible but believe me, we are doing it, some changes needs time, don't feel bad if you can't see that you are getting better, you are, with every step, no matter how small you are getting closer!

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/2.4-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/2.4.png)

That's all. Looks flat and probably five-year-old could do better, but I'm happy. I'm happy because you are still here, that means you are still fighting, that you didn't give up! That's the most important thing to me.
### #1 The First Lemon
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/the-first-lemon/
Last updated: 2025-09-12T19:36:21.000Z
Dramatic title? Check! Terrible drawing? Check! All right, I think I'm ready. So this is my first pixel art ever. It took me so much time to decide what am I going to create (or at least try). Finally, I decided oooooon *drums...* whatever! I don't think there is something you should start on. Just pick a random thing from your sounding and go with it. It will be awful anyway (if not, then what are you doing here, huh?). My thought process was simple (after 500 other processes that didn't lead to anything). If I am Citrus, then I need lemon as my logo! I know, insanely creative, I bet you are amazed. I'm using Piskel and 16x16 canvas if you care, but I don't think is matters what program you are using, Piskel is free and easy to pick up, that's all. Furthermore, I was taking screenshots after every major change (and after every mistake, if you are frustrated that whatever you are creating isn't looking good don't worry and try adding some elements. Just don't give up, please. Remember: If I can, YOU can!)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel-1.png)

That is the base... it already looks ugly for me. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--1-.png)

Filled it with color and added the base of leaf I wanted to add. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--2-.png)

Added this little light reflection, don't ask me why. Also, the leaf is here, but it looks more like a green sword behind a yellow rock. I saved it to show you that mistakes and tries are normal, do not be afraid to change things if something looked better in your imagination. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--3-.png)

Now it's better. Still not quite it, but I can almost tell that's lemon (or yellow submarine).

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--4-.png)

Lesson 1 for me: bright colors look better if sounded in black, try it yourself.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--6-.png)

This whole inside seemed so empty. Added this little "anty-light L" on the left part and darker spots, like dots on lemons. 

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--7-.png)

Added some shade to the leaf. Looks nice, maybe it's the secret? Good representation of light?

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/6d/f0/6df020d6-b03c-4a5b-8644-7e28dcb05753/content/images/2024/09/New-Piskel--9-.png)

The End. Huh, that was something. I never thought it would take this much time. It looks terrible, I absolutely hate it. But it's my first step, it don't have to be pretty... or even bearable. Thank you for reading, and I hope you also made your first step (hope that yours wasn't so insanely ugly).
### The Beginning
URL: https://www.citrusexists.com/the-beginning/
Last updated: 2024-09-20T20:22:12.000Z
So, here it begins, huh? To be honest, I thought about abandoning this whole thing so many times. I'm terrible, nobody will like it, what if my family or friends find out? If you are also afraid of starting something, don't worry, everybody is. Or at least me, that makes two of us. So, what gave me courage to start? You. Really!   
The entire point of this project, is to show you that even the most ordinary and talentless person can do something. It will probably be terrible and I'll hate it. But it's better than nothing. I really mean it. Working 5 mins isn't the same as not working at all. All of your effort matters, no matter how small or insignificant it seems. Are you afraid that people will judge you? If they spend all their time doing that they are not doing anything productive, after 5 minutes of work they are already far behind you. We are constantly told that we have to be perfect, we hear stories about insane talents and destiny. That if you want to be fit you have to start work outing 5 times a week for 2 hours and eat only eggs for next 3 years, or you are going to achieve nothing. Now I tell you, everything you achieve is important, and I'm proud of yours every step. Do not let the fear of something that might happen stop us from doing things now! So let's depart, shall we?