Using Charcoal Powder to Shade a Drawing

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  Step 1

  Complete the layin of your drawing. Since I'm drawing from reference, not from imagination, my first step was heavy on measuring. Identify the largest shapes and rhythms, then add the anatomical details on top. Continue analyzing and designing the shadow shapes.

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  Step 2

  Start by dipping a soft sable brush into a little jar of charcoal powder. Lightly tap the brush on the jar to knock off some of the charcoal and slowly start spreading it onto the shadow areas.

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  Step 3

  Don't do this too fast. Take your time and keep it clean. This process took me roughly 25 minutes to complete.

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  Step 4

  If you go too fast or want to soften the edges, use a shamy or a piece of paper to clean it. Lightly scrub it to soften the appearance.

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  Step 5

  Charcoal powder has a limit to how dark it can get. As you're filling in and cleaning the shadows, remember to darken the overall value of the shadows with a pencil. If the shadow value is too light, then you don't have much to work with in the lights.

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  Step 6

  Get your pencil out and add the detailed shading. When you want to soften some of the pencil texture, use the brush again.

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  Step 7

  Yes! All done. I hope you found this demo informational, enjoyable, and inspirational. If you did, tell you friends about it!

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