Manuel is a passionate, driven, and techsavvy AV technician, Many people have inquired about my graphite wash technique for creating authentic graphite drawings. The method I use gives the artwork a unique, one-of-a-kind appearance. Here’s the process I follow to achieve this look:
First, I prefer using a cold press illustration board with medium tooth for a subtle texture. The texture is crucial; if the board is too smooth, it won’t grip the washes as you make your strokes, resulting in a washed-out appearance without the desired texture. It’s also important to use a double-thick board, as it can withstand a significant amount of water without warping. A single-thick standard board may warp and crack as you apply more layers of wash.
Second, I shave a 2B water-soluble graphite pencil and let it dissolve for a day or two in a plastic or ceramic dish. Next, I dampen the board with a spray bottle so that the entire surface is wet but not soaked. I then add some of the water-soluble mixture to the board, striving to create a unique pattern. It’s crucial to let the mixture dry for several days before proceeding; if the board isn’t completely dry, your pencil could damage the surface. I repeat this process two or three times.
Third, I start working with HB and 2B graphite pencils Drawing Pencils - what's the Difference, and what type is Best? - Drawing pencils, often recognized as the familiar yellow No. 2 pencils, are commonly purchased in packs and used in schools. These pencils are not recommended for drawing, as the tiny particles in the graphite, or lead, contain reflective particles. These particles can cause your drawing to exhibit glare from certain angles or produce an excessively… to shade the piece, forming the shape and contours of my subject. To create white highlights, I use custom-cut erasing shields and an electric eraser. If necessary, a sharp razor blade can remove a layer of the board to reveal the pure white underneath for particularly bright highlights.
The key to this drawing technique is completing numerous thumbnail sketches beforehand and allowing the board to dry between stages.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
