1.3.1

Pen Craft

Test yourself

Pen Craft

The simplest changes can transform the quality of your sketches and writing. Instead of thinking of it as art, think of it as communication.

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Lines

  • Although you are aiming to draw straight lines, wavering from an absolute straight line is very acceptable.
  • Similarly, there is an architectural drawing practice that is worth emulating.
    • Overlapping lines when they cross is much preferable to the rushed, rounded angle of many sketches.
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Handwriting

  • The secret is to slow down when you write. No scribbling!
  • This selection from Jarman’s 12 rules will prove invaluable:
    • The basis of handwriting is a pattern of ovals and parallel lines.
    • Similar letters must have the same height.
    • Ascenders and descenders should be no more than twice the height of small letters, preferably less.
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Drawing

  • Remember that your sketches are for communication, and are not works of art. Verisimilitude is not the aim.
  • Short, bold lines are better to create strong, clear images than feathery dashes.
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Grip

  • Grip your pen or pencil close to the end, in the way you know is correct.
  • Don’t draw from your wrist. Keep it still, locked.
    • The same for your elbow.
  • The movement comes from your shoulder.
  • If you want to make the line straighter, hold your breath while you pull the pen.
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Shading

  • Apply this aesthetic of the line to shading by producing a variety of different parallel lines.
  • With the dotted or squared paper, you will create interesting patterns in an ordered way.

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