Alternatively, use a blue pencil which does not show up on scans and copies. Many artists use “col-erase” blue pencils.
Many model sheets are available on the Internet.
Alternatively, if you’re working from a reference sketch, you can invert the reference sketch. [1] X Research source
Practice making quick sketches when you’re out and about in the world (at the zoo, on the bus, in the park, etc. ). This can help you get at the most basic elements of your object and makes useful reference material that you may develop later. [2] X Research source
Try sketching without looking at the paper. The drawing features will look wonky, but this will help you remove your preconceived notion of what you think things are supposed to look like.
Approach shadows as you would a flat, graphic shapes. Some may be darker than others, but within individual shadows there should be a minimum of contrast and texture. Use the side of your charcoal pencil to create these shadow shapes, rather than scribbling in lines. Transition from shadows to highlights with halftones. Here, create gradations of contrast with darks from the shadow side and lights from the highlights. Your highlights may have some texture, depending on the material. There may also be areas without any texture. [3] X Research source
As an exercise, you can draw negative space only (rather than the object). This is particularly effective when working with a heavier medium like charcoal. [6] X Research source
