Create the illusion of texture with drawing techniques.
When drawing on a two-dimensional, flat picture plane you must utilize shading techniques to create light, form and texture. Achieving texture in a drawing will give the piece a sense of depth and realism. Choose one technique that works for you to obtain the specific textured appearance you desire. Alternatively, use a combination of techniques to create smooth, course and patterned textures throughout. Using a combination of techniques for texturing will add depth and tonality to your drawing.
Instructions
1. Sketch an outline drawing of your subject matter with a drawing pencil on drawing paper. Lightly sketch the basic shapes and lines.
2. Create a smooth texture by blending with a drawing pencil on paper. To blend, scribble the pencil to fill an area with graphite. Then scribble over the graphite area with a blending stump. The blending stump will smooth the graphite, deleting any texture. Alternatively, place a tissue over your fingertip and rub the graphite. This will create a shadowy appearance.
3. Create deep texture and deep tonal values by cross-hatching. To crosshatch, draw overlapping, criss-crossing lines. To create more of a loose texture and lighter areas use fewer lines. Drawing tighter, overlapping lines will create a muted texture, and increase darkness.
4. Create texture with a sinuous and flowing appearance by shading with circles and curved lines. Draw texture by creating continuous circular patterns and curved lines with the pencil. Move your pencil in a circular fashion, creating overlapping circles in various sizes. Alternatively, create overlapping curved lines. The less circles and curves, the more texture and lighter the tonal value.
5. Create dot patterns to create delicate textures. Shading with dots, otherwise called pointillism, is the process of dabbing the pencil onto the paper to create small dots. The more dots you create the more texture. This technique works best to fill lighter shaded areas.
