Shading with pen? ?

Question

Is there a technique to use when shading really lightly with pen to get a smoother looking texture? Even when leaning very lightly it usually comes out a tad scratchy looking with lines.

Thanks :)

Answer 1

Cross-hatching usually works best, also the number of lines with the same thickness closer together has an effect, the further the lines are, the lighter it will be, the closer they are, the darker it will be.

Also, please mention what pen you are using, I can shade well using nothing but a ball-point pen as you can apply different amounts of pressure to get different shading, fineliners and ink pens are harder, but makes it kind of easier as the lines are more clear, easy to draw with and give more detail and doesn't look as clumsy as a ball-point.

Or, you could just try using a pencil.

Answer 2

well, i would suggest just putting slanted lines next to each other to create the illusion of shadow, rather than attempt to lightly fill in space, because usually pens all come in one shade no matter what.

Answer 3

There are a few other techniques you may use to simulate value, like stippling. Hatching and cross-hatching are also valid and widely used...

Stippling is using small dots, depending on their proximity, you can get a sort of gradient. Tighter space between the dots will seem darker than if they're further apart. (I would suggest a lot of patience and a smaller tip pen, like Sakura Micron Pens.)

But what is true about these techniques- you must go from light to darker shades.

My final suggestion is the employment of ink washes and masks. Masking will keep your ink from having contact with the paper, especially if water-based. If you like watercolors- the wash idea might not be too bad, you'll need paper that won't warp too easily.