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How do you shade a cross hatch?

Published in Drawing Techniques 3 mins read

Shading with cross-hatching involves creating tonal or shading effects by drawing a series of intersecting parallel lines. It's a classic drawing technique used to build up depth and shadow.

Understanding Cross-Hatching

Cross-hatching is a versatile drawing method where you layer sets of parallel lines over each other, typically at different angles. The density of the lines – how close together they are and how many layers you apply – determines the darkness of the shaded area.

  • Hatching: The initial layer of parallel lines.
  • Cross-Hatching: Adding subsequent layers of parallel lines that intersect the previous ones.

By varying the direction, length, and closeness of your lines, you can represent form, light, and shadow in your artwork.

Basic Cross-Hatching Technique

To start shading with cross-hatching:

  1. Establish Direction: Begin by drawing a set of parallel lines in one direction (e.g., vertical or horizontal) in the area you want to shade.
  2. Add the First Cross-Hatch: Draw another set of parallel lines across the first set, often at a different angle (commonly 45 or 90 degrees).
  3. Build Tone: Continue adding layers of lines at varying angles as needed to darken the area. More layers and closer lines create deeper shadows.
  4. Control Pressure: Lighter pressure creates fainter lines, while heavier pressure makes them darker. This also contributes to tonal variation.

Achieving Smooth Shades with Cross-Hatching

While traditional cross-hatching often uses distinct lines, you can also use the technique to create smoother tonal transitions. According to one method, to get a smooth shade, you should focus on creating thick, close strokes.

Here's how to apply this technique based on the reference:

  • Use Thick Strokes: Instead of fine lines, aim for thicker marks.
  • Hold the Pencil High: Move your hand further up on the pencil, away from the tip. This allows for more controlled, broader strokes using the side of the lead.
  • Angle the Lead: Angle the side of your pencil lead towards the paper. The greater the angle, the thicker your strokes will be. The reference suggests the thicker, the better for this blending technique.
  • Keep Strokes Close: Draw your thick strokes close together. This density, combined with the stroke thickness, helps fill the area more completely, reducing the appearance of individual lines and creating a smoother appearance.
  • Blending Potential: These thicker strokes, applied closely, can often be more easily blended if desired, contributing further to a smooth finish.

Tips for Effective Cross-Hatching

  • Vary Line Direction: Change the angle of your cross-hatch layers to build up tone evenly and add visual interest. Lines can follow the form of the object you are shading.
  • Practice Control: Learn to control the spacing and pressure of your lines to achieve subtle gradations of tone.
  • Layer Gradually: Build up dark areas slowly by adding more layers rather than trying to make lines very dark initially.

By combining the basic principles of layered parallel lines with techniques for creating thicker, closer strokes, you can effectively shade with cross-hatching to achieve both linear textures and smoother tonal gradients.