Reverse Graphite

Using graphite shavings to build up a base layer of what is essentially an editable mid-tone parchment. To do this, I make sure I already have my sketch prepped on the paper, as to not to disturb the graphite when making mistakes and erasing; I use the butt end of a woodless graphite pencil and shave it down on some sandpaper. Using the dust and a blending cloth, I gently smooth it out over the paper until it is mostly "blended" out, making sure not to damage or smooth out the tooth of the paper, otherwise future graphite won't rub off on it properly, as well as not to overpower the base sketch. After, I prefer to come in with my darkest lead (currently an 8B) and slowly build up my shadows, keeping contrast in mind. After most of them are laid out, I use a Staedtler eraser and start looking for the highlights. I particularly like using this method, because even though the eraser may get dirty, I can use this to my advantage on highlights I don't want as bright. If I make an error and highlight over an area I didn't intend, or made the white too strong in comparison, I can always come back with more of that graphite dust or a dirty blending stick and add some mid-tones back in.

Happy sketching,

Viktoria