Pencil tests

I'm trying to use a method where you sketch with blue pencil and use regular pencil to "ink", thus eliminating the need to re-ink.
So far, they work, but to some extent.
The first one I realized the paper was creme, and I pressed down too hard with the blue. And my pencil wasn't dark enough.  The result is this.

The 2nd one I finished today.
Still not happy.

And honestly, I look back at my original roots, to when I made fancomics. I was far more comfortable sketching with pencil, and then inking.  Heck, back then I used to color/shade by hand too. With a tablet, I've done a lot by computer.
I'm currently trying to enter the Shonen Jump weekly manga competition. That's why I'm testing out with pencils and blues. But with the short amount of time I have, I think I just have to go with what's more natural with me.

Now, for the drawing. This is a really old character I created. This is Kanamo, the Seamstress. One of the 12 demigods of Trinio. She doesn't represent any particular race or group, but the title Seamstress signifies her vital role in creating threads and ties to the other deities. That and she can practically make magically-enhanced clothes and fabric with whatever she can find around her. Her magic power may not be the strongest, but she makes up for it with channeling inner strength through her specially-tailored robe.
[UPDATE]6/25/13
did my first pencil test for a dummy comic page. Surprisingly not bad. But clean-up is unavoidable.
Gonna do another one, except I'll try to add inks

Welp...I think I know what route I'm going with. Honestly it's more easier to ink the stuff. It's just been a while since I'm so used to the tablet and stuff.