Once you begin to draw actual objects, such as the cylinder shown below, use the following guidelines to help you.
1. Soft edge. This is where the object gently curves and creates a shadow edge. It is not harsh, but a gradual change of tone.
2. Hard edge. This is where two surfaces touch or overlap, creating a harder-edged, more defined appearance. I do not mean outlined! Be sure to let the difference in tones create the edge.
3. Application of tone. Always apply your tones, whether with your pencil or tortillion, with the contours of the object. Follow the curves of the object, with the shading parallel to the edges so you can blend into the edge and out toward the light. It is impossible to control blending if you are cross-blending and not following the natural edges and curves.
4. Contrast. Don’t be afraid of good solid contrasts of tone. Always compare everything to black or white. Use your five-box value scale to see where the gray tones fit in. Squinting your eyes while looking at your subject matter obscures details and helps you see the contrasts better.
The sphere, cone and cylinder are all important shapes to understand if you want to draw animals in nature. If you can master the five elements of shading on these simple objects first, drawing the animals in their natural settings will be much easier.
• Correct uneven tone by forming a point with your kneaded eraser, then drawing in reverse. Use a light touch and gently remove any areas that stand out as darker than others. Fill in light spots lightly with your pencil.
• Spray areas that need to be extremely dark with fixative, and build up darks in layers. Be sure to finish any erasing that needs to be done before spraying.
• Use your kneaded eraser to crisp up edges and remove any overblending.