This work is your own and you are welcomed to let your creativity flow where it wants to go, but if you need a little more assistance, I will show you a very simple way to decorate your portrait while still keeping some freedom in process.
Step 1: Pick 4 colours and white. If you’re unsure, start with the ones you know you want in your painting, and revisit later for the other colours.
Step 2: Imagine that each body part is split in 2 sections. This does not need to be perfect and I do not recommend using pencil on your canvas. Simply make an approximate separation of the left and right side of each body part showing in your portrait.
Step 3: Start with your first colour. Mix some of it with white. You will have a darker, and a lighter version of that colour.
Step 4: You can choose to use the lighter shade of your colours on the left or right side. The darker shades will be used on the opposite side.
Step 5: Use the darker shade of the same colour, and repeat the pattern on the opposite side to the lighter shade.
Step 6: Repeat the same steps for each colour until your body is covered.
Step 7: If there are still some white spots, just go back to the previous colours and make some adjustments.
Step 8: If you are wearing any clothing, I recommend painting them in a block colour.
Step 9: The final touch, your background!