This tutorial focuses on the essential practice of drawing and shading fundamental geometric shapes using pen and ink techniques. Mastering these basic forms is crucial for artists of all levels, as they serve as the foundation for understanding light, shadow, and volume in more complex compositions.

Reference Photos

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This image is part of the (Free Download) Artists Reference Photos Pack 2, which includes basic mini geometric forms and shapes.

STEP-BY-STEP DEMONSTRATION

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Step 1: Use the Constructive Sketching technique to outline the overall composition by sketching with basic shapes and simple lines. Start by drawing a rectangular frame around all the subjects, then create smaller rectangles around each specific subject.

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Step 2: Based on the rectangles you've sketched, use straight lines to define the position and overall shape of the subjects. Check proportions and positions to ensure a more accurate composition.

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Step 3: Once you’ve completed the constructive sketch, outline the actual shapes of the subjects by combining various straight and curved lines. Erase unnecessary sketch marks to make the outline more clear.

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Step 4: Begin adding Cross-Contour lines to the subjects. For flat surfaces, cross-contour lines are typically straight and parallel, following the form of the subject in any direction.

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Step 5: For subjects with curved surfaces, use curved cross-contour lines that follow the 3D structure of the subject. The third shape, which combines a cylinder and cone, will have curved lines resembling parts of oval shapes.

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Step 6: Using the cross-contour lines as a guide, begin shading with pen and ink in the darker areas. For flat surfaces, draw parallel straight lines spaced about 1 mm apart.

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Step 7: Similar to flat surfaces, the lines on curved surfaces will also be parallel and spaced about 1 mm apart. However, based on the cross-contour, these lines will be curved to match the subject’s form.

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Step 8: After completing the hatching in the dark areas, move on to hatching the lighter areas. For the light areas, use dashed hatching to create the appropriate value.

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Step 9: Apply line thickness variation to represent values in darker areas like the Core Shadow, Reflected Light, and Cast Shadow. You can change the thickness within a single line to create smoother value transitions.

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Step 10: Continue shading the remaining dark areas using the same technique. Always compare and balance values to ensure the overall drawing feels harmonious and balanced.

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Step 11: To emphasize and intensify values, use Cross-Hatching by drawing hatching lines at an angle of about 15-30 degrees compared to the first layer of hatching. Start with the darkest areas to maintain better control over the values.

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Step 12: Observe, compare, adjust, add details, and complete your drawing.