Uploaded February 2013 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Making a good sketch that has lighting and shading requires an ability to control the drawing tool to make subtle gradients. Rapid viz sketches will usually have quickly indicated areas of shade based on lighting.
1. Apply an even and smooth gradient in black pencil. 2. Use unidirectional arm motion when shading. 3. Draw on white 8-1/2x11 bond paper with black Verithin or Color-erase and Prisma pencil. 4. Use masking as necessary: straight edges, tape, post-its, paper. 5. Apply a smooth, even gradient from the color of the paper to the darkness of the pencil. 6. Make the gradient in the appropriate direction for each area. 7. Move your arm evenly, rhythmically, while shading, applying pressure to darken areas. Do not cross hatch or swirl the pencil. 8. Draw a thin dark border around the gradient areas. 9. Add a border around your sheet. Based in part on work by Prof. Robert Natata, San Francisco State University.
Making a good sketch that has lighting and shading requires an ability to control the drawing tool to make subtle gradients. Rapid viz sketches will usually have quickly indicated areas of shade based on lighting.
1. Apply an even and smooth gradient in black pencil. 2. Use unidirectional arm motion when shading. 3. Draw on white 8-1/2x11 bond paper with black Verithin or Color-erase and Prisma pencil. 4. Use masking as necessary: straight edges, tape, post-its, paper. 5. Apply a smooth, even gradient from the color of the paper to the darkness of the pencil. 6. Make the gradient in the appropriate direction for each area. 7. Move your arm evenly, rhythmically, while shading, applying pressure to darken areas. Do not cross hatch or swirl the pencil. 8. Draw a thin dark border around the gradient areas. 9. Add a border around your sheet. Based in part on work by Prof. Robert Natata, San Francisco State University.
