Pen and ink drawings are created with fine lines and detailed marks that contribute to a particular style of art. Pen and ink drawing requires you to have some basic knowledge of the various techniques that need to be used to create this style of drawing. Once you are comfortable with the basic techniques, you will see your art improve and be ready to branch out into more complicated aspects of pen and ink art.
Hatching
Hatching is a basic technique that allows you to create texture in your drawings by using rows of parallel lines. The rows of parallel lines together create the illusion of a solid, textured line or lines.
Crosshatching is a technique that creates an even more complex texture with darker shading by crossing over several layers parallel lines. To use the crosshatching technique, apply a vertical layer of lines over the initial hatched section and continue to alternate line layers angled 45 degrees apart.
Contour hatching creates more flexible lines and is often used when drawing figures, as the contours resemble lines along the body. This type of hatching is created by drawing a series of parallel lines that start at separate points, but join in the center to create a diamond shape.
When drawing hatched lines, draw them close together and use the ink very lightly. To begin drawing hatched lines, set your paper at an angle that allows you to sit comfortably and turn the paper, rather than your position, when applying layers of hatching. It is important to stay focused and keep yourself in the same position while drawing as the hatching technique requires consistency and a methodical approach.
Stippling
Stippling is another popular pen and ink technique that creates texture and lines by drawing a series of tiny dots that form a shape. The tone and texture of a drawing that uses a stippling technique will vary depending upon distribution and density of the dots.
The closer together you place the dots, the darker the tone of the drawing. Larger dots that are created using a thicker pen point can quickly achieve a darker tone by placing the dots closely together, Using a larger point pen, though, may create a coarse and less refined texture.
For the most precise look, use a smaller point pen and exercise patience when using the stippling technique.
Stippling is a technique typically used to create complementary textures with other techniques, such as crosshatching, and is rarely used as a sole technique for an entire drawing.
