But still, I am very curious about how masterpieces like your works are created And I am not the only one who is, I think.

That's interesting to know, because I know many artists on DevArt use smudging materials to get a smooth look, so it's cool to see the effect can be achieved well without any additional materials.

I must look into getting some good mechanical pencils and give them ago because from what I've heard they better to use than wooden ones.

Thanks for sharing a couple of your 'trade secrets' lol!

Armin,
I’ve spent the last several days switched from Staedtler Lumograph pencils to Pentel mechanical for all B through 4B work. I gotta admit… I love the control the mechanical pencil is giving me!!

For harder grades (and thus lighter tone), I find I’m returning to my Staedtler clutch pencils. I guess I’m just not experienced enough to lay down my lines in a uniform manner with those harder grades.

Another quote from you goes “Thanks Lucas I use mechanical pencils Pentel GraphGear 1000 .5 2B and 4B. great pencils little expensive and you probably would have to get them on the net.”

I think it may just be another confirmation to your skill and experience that you can get such an incredible range of tone with these two grades as primary.

Lastly, may I be what is probably the millionth person to ask… Ever thought about writing a book? I know you are a teacher and probably enjoy that avenue more, but books con be in so many places at once!!

Again, thank you for your time and contributions here.

Melissa

You're more than welcome, master

--