The process of adding value to create an illusion of form, space, and light in a drawing is called shading.

Every artist will find the shading method that works best for them. Each method produces a distinct result,

and depending on what type of art you want to create, you can choose the one that is appropriate for the task.
There are many shading techniques. Here are the most common. Hatching. Line strokes are drawn in the same
direction. By drawing strokes closer together, we create darker values, leaving more space in between, results
in lighter values. For rounded objects, the strokes make slightly curve to follow the contours of the object.

Cross hatching. Lines cross over each other. The density at which the line strokes cross and overlap
determines the value that they produce. Circling. Circling is a loose application of continuous strokes with
circular motions. Layering and applying different pressure will generate a range of smooth tonal values.

Scribbling is just a loose application of overlapping scribbles. Scribbling is an excellent technique to use when
drawing specific subjects, as it not only creates values, but also gives a sense of texture. Blending. Smooth
gradations of value are produced either by adjusting the amount of pressure applied to the medium,

or by using a blending tool, such as a blending stump. Never use your finger for blending. The oils on your
skin when mixed with graphite can ruin the drawing as you rub the graphite into the paper. That can make the
shading look blotchy and hard to correct or erase. Stippling or pointillism is a shading technique by applying
countless small dots to build up darker values in a drawing.

The density of the dots determines the value produced. Cross contour. Contour lines can be done in many
different ways, but basically the idea is to have the lines follow the shape of what you're drawing to support the
form. And don't forget that your eraser is an equal drawing tool along with your pencil or charcoal.

Use it for drawing as well as to create lighter values or erase. So, here are the basic shading techniques.
Hatching. Cross hatching. Circling. Scribbling. Blending. Stippling. Cross contour. And erasing. When
shading, use different grade pencils for different values. Pencils marked H,

H2, H4, and so forth are hard pencils. They produce delicate, light strokes and are great for light values and
details. Pencils marked from B to 8B are soft, they produce darker values and are great for sketching. In the
modern age, artists use a 10-tone value scale. Value increases 10% at a time.

Most artists can visualize this scale and use the terms like 1 tone down or 1 tone up when talking about shading.
Value scale is a great reference tool for choosing the right value. The same value looks lighter or darker next to
different backgrounds. Shading a value scale is a great way to practice your value and shading techniques.
Always start shading with the darkest value.

The darkest value uses your medium to its max, and you can use it as a reference for the rest of the values. If
you start with the darkest value of the scale, each next section should be lighter than the previous. You can
control it by pressure and stroke density. If you need to adjust a tone, it's easier to darken it, just add more
shading. Leave your last section blank for white value.

But what happens if you start with the lightest section and move towards the dark values? At some point, you
might reach the pencil's maximum darkness. Then what? You would have to go back and start erasing to
lighten the values, which can ruin the stroke pattern and create a mess. So, to save time and effort, it's always
best to start with the darkest value. And here is a shading tip for you.

Small strokes are easy to control while shading. They create a better stroke pattern and are easy to layer. So
what can value do for you as an artist? It can emphasize what's important by creating areas of contrast. Make
objects appear 3-dimensional by adding a range of tonal values to create an illusion of light and shadows.

Show depth and space by using value in aerial perspective, making background objects less contrasted and
lighter or darker in value based on the light conditions. Change the appearance of objects by modifying lights
and shadows. Create drama and mood in an artwork by using a value technique that is called chiaroscuro.

You will learn more about this value technique in the next video. And now that you know how to use value and
how to shade, you are ready for the next step!