An artwork always starts with an idea. It is the auteur’s will to express his innermost thoughts, which dictates their subject. To realize their vision, an artist has many tools at their disposal. They may work with oil paints, pencils, acrylic, even ceramic or metals. In some cases, they nurture their expression via charcoal powder. But as is the rule of the world, there are pros and cons to everything. Therefore, one must be aware when using charcoal powder for drawing.
What is Charcoal Powder?
As the name suggests, charcoal powder is essentially pulverized charcoal. Charcoal may be made of wood, bones, or plant residue. However, most charcoal powder for drawings is usually made of wood, in particular those of willow trees or grape vines. This charcoal has an innate fineness and hence consistency, which makes it the best charcoal powder for drawing, rendering a unique tone depth to an artwork.
Make your OWN Charcoal Powder!
While there are named brands selling charcoal powders both online and offline, you are free to get creative and DIY your very own charcoal powder for drawing. All you need is some charcoal. You may either burn some wood to make charcoal or buy some bricks from the store. Once you have got your hand on these big black beasts, blend them into a fine powder in a high-powered blender. Alternatively, you may also sand the blocks creating fine charcoal powder as a residue.
How Manageable is Charcoal Powder for Drawing?
Since it is only pulverized powder, we’d say it is pretty hard to manage. Once you learn the intricacies involved with using and applying charcoal powder, you can expect to see an exemplary abstract or impressionist background. To lift the charcoal powder from its container and apply it onto the canvas, you can use myriad applicatory devices, hak brushes, paper towels, or even your own finger. Since all these gadgets are different, their ability to pick up and distribute powder varies.
We consider makeup sponges to be the most efficient way to use charcoal powder for drawing. Thanks to its aerated orifices it can pick up large amounts of powder, and restrict their distribution. In addition, it will also give you a popcorn texture (something Georges Seurat; the father of pointillism will be proud of). To create a wet effect, take the assistance of rubbing alcohol or acetone.
Using Charcoal Powder for Drawing
While we admit you won’t be able to use charcoal powder to sketch out and outline your subjects, you will indisputably be able to shade your drawing. Charcoal powder may be used for drawing soft edges, such as clouds, trees or hair. As opposed to a graphite pencil, there is no glare associated with charcoal powder; it remains flat on your base. Ensure that you don’t rub the powder onto your base; lest you need to erase it to render light to your subject.
What Subjects Can I Draw with Charcoal Powder?
Charcoal powder for drawing is not an unheard concept; you may tone the base before you even start. In fact, there are a variety of subjects that you will be able to create. The powder gives the artist the autonomy to create gradients, making it an easy pick for diverse subjects. Some of them have been listed below.
- Clouds
- Smoke
- Fog or Mist
- Trees
- Hair or Fur
Drawing with Charcoal Powder
Before you begin using charcoal powder for drawing, ensure that you already have an outline prepared. Pick up the charcoal powder with a brush or a sponge and gently glide it over to the areas that are to be shadowed. Adjust the intensity of the shadow by either blending it or adding more powder. To create highlights use a kneaded eraser to erase the darker corners. Once you have achieved your desired shading, whip out your pencils and detail the sketch once again. Graze the brush or sponge over the drawing yet again to bring it all together.
Et Voila! Your next masterpiece is ready to be displayed!!
Photo Courtesy – Artists & Illustrators
