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Still Life with Grid - Challenging
Starting to get the hang of using a grid. I’m still struggling with the values and smoothing stuff out. My transitions seem so harsh. I do need to invest in some better paper. What I’m using isn’t taking the multiple layers too well and it doesn’t blend as good as I would like.
Edwin, HUSSAIN and 15 others11 Comments-
I use a heavier Mixed Media paper from Hobby Lobby I have grown to love. It works really well for blending.
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@averydallas17 Very nice drawing Ashley. Well done.
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@larry thank you very much!
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@averydallas17 Beautiful drawing!
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@Lori thank you very much! It’s one of the few I’m working on
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Paper can definitely have a huge effect. What paper did you use for this?
Depends on your budget, I initially did my practice with normal 80gsm printing paper and found them ok. Or you can get some 120-200 gsm printing paper.
If cost is not an issue you can look at bristol smooth or mixed media, something 200 gsm+-
@cheryl This is the cheap stuff I had lying around. It’s good for learning and seeing if drawing is something I will stick with. I’ll hit Ross’s – every once in awhile I see the heavier mixed media paper and it’s reasonably priced.
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Hi Lori
Your drawing shows you are learning a lot. Your background and shadow are drawn very well and smooth. I think if you draw this exercise again and listen to every word Ali has to say and watch every stroke of the pencil he makes in the tutorial, you will find the results you are happy with.
It looks like you might be pressing to hard with your pencil. For shading, hold your pencil at a very low angle and make very soft strokes so you don’t damage the surface of the paper. Lay down a little graphite from your pencil then lightly brush the graphite into the pores of the paper, then add another light layer on top of that.
It is fun to practice this on a blank paper just to get the feel of how well it works. Doing this gradual build up of layers enables you to erase very easily when needed.😊
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@larry Thank you! That is great advice. I rush trying to get the darker values and press too hard.
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Hey Lori! I can see the grid is helping you lock in the shape. That teapot looks solid, and your background shadow has a nice soft feel to it.
You already diagnosed the problem yourself the paper is fighting you. When the surface will not hold layers, everything gets harder. You start pressing harder without noticing, and those transitions turn harsh. Larry is right on the money about going lighter and building up gradually. If the paper is too slick or thin, the graphite sits on top instead of settling in, and no amount of blending fixes that. When you grab better paper, something with a bit more tooth like mixed media or Bristol smooth around 200gsm, the layering will suddenly feel a lot more cooperative. You are learning exactly the right lessons here. Keep posting your progress.
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@alihaiderrehman Thanks! You are always so encouraging. I really appreciate the feedback you give everyone – all the tips reinforce and/or provide new insights.
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