Secret Weapon for Pencil Drawing

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Powdered graphite allows an artist to create smooth transitions of value and shading without visible pencil lines and without having to smudge with a finger. When powdered graphite is used in a drawing, the artist can use the eraser as a mark-making tool for lighter values, while still using the pencil for darker tones. This helps to encourage the development of a full range of value in the drawing.
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Related Drawing Courses...
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[ElizabethBattle]

I introduced powdered graphite to my drawing students a couple of years ago. We used graphite sold as lubricant from the hardware store. Very cheap. The students really liked working with it.

[hyperguyver]

Powdered graphite is also something we use in prop making to give a gunmetal finish to items like weapons, and to weather items like armor and equipment to make it look worn and dirty.

[anorphan]

Nice! this also works with soft pastels, compressed charcoal sticks, and graphite sticks. I also just use a knife to scrape off the graphite onto a paper and use a brush to blend it.

[lindalangeheine]

I use cosmetic sponges to move the powder around the page. Works beautifully for portraits.

[randywilliams]

You have the best instructional videos on Youtube. Period.

[sanne]

As a kid I discovered that when I sharped my pencil, I could make shadows and clouds with the powder graphite that comes of... I recently starting drawing again and often I remember that I already did things as a child... Kids really have such creative minds to create

[j.mbarlow]

I've been toning my entire piece of paper for ages, I didn't realize it was actually an established technique! This powdered graphite thing is a fantastic idea, I will definitely try it out. Thanks!

[Danika_Nadzan]

Wow! I always learn something amazing from your videos! I just started drawing 2 years ago, and pencil is my favorite; I would never have thought of doing this. Your drawings using this technique are stunning! Thank you so much for sharing your talents and knowledge with us! (from Philadelphia area)

[abigailhumes]

I am back. Yes, I am in your course, but had a shoulder injury and haven't "been around" in a couple of months. I am anxious to get back into the course and your weekly demonstrations. It is good to your face, Matt.

[brittanywilliams]

I just tried this, since I'm struggling with portraits atm, and holy crap! Nvr going back to the way I was doing it! Absolutely amazing!

[rickhenry]

I regret that my Art Instructor at college didn't cover graphite media. This is a big game changer for me. Thanks for an extraordinary experience.

[natalieanderson]

WOW! I had no idea this was possible. I love pencil drawing. This is a whole other way to use graphite. I can't wait to give it a try.

[heartsource]

I love this. Thank you. I cannot wait to try this! You are a wonderful artist! Wow.

[wyominggirl]

Wow thank you! I am so glad to come across this channel! This just solved so many issues I have had drawing!

[sunnysnod]

Powdered graphite what a break through for me. I also paint so this method really speaks to me, this I can get my head around, thank you. I struggle to get depth and smooth tones with pencils, this will really help.

[lizmacdonnell]

Love watching your tips and lectures. Thank you!

[gtojbcz]

I dearly love this technique. Love the push/pull of graphite. Brings me great pleasure.

[rosejames]

Thank you for a great introduction to a new technique!

[charlottesmom]

I have a jar of graphite powder somewhere in my collection of drawing paraphernalia, gotta dig it out and play!

[indigodande]

I would even dare to suggest to keep a spritz bottle / fine mist sprayer handy with 90% alcohol like pastel artists. Use it to seal the powder thats already on the paper and then add next layer.