When looking at feathers closely, you can see they resemble shingles in the way they overlap each other in layers. They appear in many sizes, colors and patterns, so study well. For some practice on drawing detailed feathers, begin with segment drawing.
Start with your two-inch (51mm) square. Draw in the shingle-like shapes of the feathers. Add some patterns as shown.
Blend out the tones with a tortillion. Reapply the dark tones under each feather. Deepen the patterns and blend again. Lift the light areas out with the kneaded eraser.
.5mm mechanical pencil with 2B lead
kneaded eraser
ruler
smooth bristol paper
tortillion
GREAT HORNED OWL
Graphite on smooth bristol
11” × 14” (28cm × 36cm)
ROBBY
Graphite on smooth Bristol
11” × 14” (28cm × 36cm)
The background has a heavily blended appearance with subtle light and dark patterns, which create the illusion of sky. Everything in the foreground looks crisp and in focus, while the small sprig of leaves in the upper left has less detail. One of the things I love most about this drawing is the highlight and shadow on the breast of the bird. This gives the drawing a look of authentic sunlight and realism.