I find it very helpful to really get into the artwork.
First start talking like a Viking, yelling and pounding on the table as you draw. This helps loosen up and will create better flowing gestures.
Next drink from an old hollow Ram's horn, careful to spill more on your shirt than you actually swallow. The choice of drink is up to you. This will definitely help your color and value choices.
Finally, burping very loudly while drawing is just what I do normally...
A quick color study of an ink sketch. Starting with an undercolor and building up color layers. Please look for more at Troopertree.com and subscribe.
I tried a variation, with less blocking in of the blacks.
