Not yet registered? Create a OverBlog!

Create my blog

How to hold a pencil when drawing?

It may sound like the most elementary of skills but choosing the correct pencil and holding it correctly will have a profound impact on the quality of your sketches. In this article, we'll show you how to get the best out of your drawing materials.

Choosing the correct pencil

Pencils are rated on a scale which refers to their softness. Most pencils will be rated H - these are good all purpose pencils which can give a variety of tone and rendering effects.
Precision
As a rule, the more precise the line you wish to draw, the harder the pencil you should choose. Harder pencils are known as H pencils. A 3H is harder than a 2H and so on up until a 9H pencil. A writing pencil should be an HB or H grade. Artistic sketches
For, artistic sketches B or soft pencils are used. 9B is the softest and is very similar to charcoal. These pencils need sharpening often and generally used by artists for shadows and large areas of shading.

Holding the pencil

Grippers
If you are working with children, there are a range of products which will show learners how to how to hold a pencil. Pencil grippers have been used for years to improve hand writing and develop proper technique. Pen grips come in a variety of sizes and shapes which encourage proper grip.
Exercises
If you wish to improve your sketching, then holding the pencil correctly is only part of the battle. To become a successful artist, you need to practice simple exercises with a pencil that will develop your technique. Whilst it is true that the best artists use a degree of natural talent, the basics can be learned and practised, just like a golf swing or a musical instrument.
Tips
Search the internet for "drawing calisthenics" for some simple exercises. These exercises allow artists to develop a variety of techniques, grips and encourage the common repetition of basic shapes such as ellipses and straight lines. Once you are confident that you are holding your pencil correctly and are using and applying techniques you have practiced, make sure you have the right materials.
Materials
Good quality cartridge paper and a plastic eraser are essential equipment to the artist. People who wish to engage in technical drawing however, will need a drawing board, steel rule, french curves and a good array of propelling pencils.
Further drawing
Contrary to popular belief, drawing is a skill that can be learned by anyone. Check for courses in your local community centre to meet other like minded enthusiasts and to develop your technique.

Same category articles Art & Design

How to draw a face

How to draw a face

Human eyes and facial expressions, including all the wrinkles, fleshy folds and shadows, personify the human spirit, so artists strive to learn how to draw people's faces. as a newcomer to drawing, you will probably first learn how to draw with pencil, but don't expect a beautiful face to flow from your first try. plan on trying many times. you will get better. vincent van gogh spent years learning to draw, so be patient.
How to find cheap stock images

How to find cheap stock images

Stock images, also known as stock photos, are used when a person needs just a few pictures and does not want to hire a photographer. they are licensed for specific use. the internet allows people to look for, find and purchase these images online. those looking for cheap photos will benefit from the tips on how to find cheap stock images found in this article.
The five popular baby posters

The five popular baby posters

Get ready to be amazed with anne geddes' babies' prints and the process that goes behind anne geddes' photography. learn about the baby poster prints that are released as limited edition prints, here.
How can I learn how to draw anime?

How can i learn how to draw anime?

Anime and manga, both styles of japanese cartoons and entertainment, have achieved a massive following around the world. this is due to the success of manga books and anime such as deathnote, bleach, and ouran high school host club. while watching and reading is all well and good, some want to learn how to draw it themselves.