How to Choose Materials for Academic Drawing: A Complete Guide

September 25, 2023

Selecting the right materials for academic drawing is the first step in mastering this art form. For beginner artists, it's crucial to understand which tools and materials are best suited for developing their skills. This guide will cover the essential materials needed for academic drawing.

Paper

The foundation of any drawing is the paper. For starters, ordinary drafting or watercolor paper of medium thickness will suffice. It should be smooth enough for fine details and sturdy enough to withstand erasing. A good choice would be a medium-weight paper, around 80 lb cover weight, which is equivalent to 200 g/m².

Pencils

The choice of pencils ranges from very hard (H, 2H, 3H) to very soft (B, 2B, 3B, and above). Hard pencils are best for precise work and light tones, while soft pencils are ideal for creating dark, rich lines and shadows. Start with a set that includes a variety of hardness levels.

Erasers

It's important to have several types of erasers: a rubber eraser for general use, a kneaded eraser for light, clean erasures, and a hard eraser pencil for detailed corrections. These tools will help you easily correct mistakes without damaging the paper.

Ruler

A ruler is necessary for creating straight lines and accurate measurements. This is especially important when working on perspective and architectural sketches.

Charcoal

Charcoal is an excellent material for creating rich shadows and soft transitions. It comes in sticks or pencils. Charcoal allows for quick tonal application and is effective for working over large areas.

Sanguine

Sanguine is a reddish-brown material traditionally used in academic drawing to add warmth to images. It is ideal for depicting the human body.

Blenders

Use blenders or stump brushes to smooth out lines and shadows. They help create soft transitions and realistic textures.

Fixative

To secure your drawing and prevent smudging, you will need a fixative. Use it sparingly to avoid altering the tone and texture of the work. When choosing materials for academic drawing, try to invest in quality products. They not only make the drawing process easier but also ensure that your works look professional. Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and techniques to find those that suit you best.