I am using my original character here as an example of how I draw.  I start with a sketch with flat shaded layouts of where the folds and hair will separate. Then blend it out in black and white.  During the black-and-white phase; I focus on values and shading- to ensure the color will show in the next process. I use gradient maps to add color because it's very helpful to change certain shading into more of a hue than just using black. The final drawing is mainly clean-up and detailing.