Isabel, may I ask what kind of graphite you use? It has been so long since I have done anything in graphite I am wondering how you get the darks so dark? Also, do you use an eraser to draw as well? What kind of paper do you prefer. I notice on your site it varies a bit. Thank you for your time. Again, beautiful.

Here're some step by step progress photos.

I worked in a very anti academic way. I love to draw section by sections (finish one small section at a time) using mechanical pencils. Because in fact I'm not a very impatient person, always want to see something finished at the end of the day.

I always finish the eyes first, in order to establish a connection between me and the subject. Also, I rarely switch pencils, mainly used 0.5 mechanical pencils with 2b and 3b leads here.

The softest pencil I used was 0.5 3B mechanical pencil while the hardest I used was 0.5 2H. However I did use a bit of 3h and 4h leads on her white sweater.

Usually I used 2b and 3b for almost everything but this drawing was a special case due to the detail and the color of her sweater.

Forgive me for asking so many questions, but do you blend?

By the way, thank you for posting the progress shots. Amazing. I am really learning something!

I've tried many paper, I think Arches Hotpress 300gsm (140lb) watercolor paper suits my style best. There's no perfect paper, some people prefer bristol smooth or illustration board, other prefer other brands of watercolor paper. It's just a matter of taste.


To achieve darkness, I layered 2b or 3b a few times, depending on the value required. Sometimes I blend with a paper stump sometimes I don't depending on the texture. I mainly just blended her face and her hand here. Some people prefer other blending tools such as tissue paper, q tips, fingers, paint brush, etc. None of them works for me except paper stumps. Also, I don't use eraser much because Hotpress watercolor paper is made of 100% cotton, the surface can be easily damaged. So it is important to avoid rubbing too hard/much.

A few more progress photos....

Oops, Lisa we're posting at the same time. Hope I answered your questions?

Isabel,

LUPET!!!!!!!! That's how we express or we say here in Manila, Philippines when we see something amazing like your masterpiece. I only got one question: what is your secret?hehe. You are so great.

God bless you and more power.

Your degree in accounting and marketing will probably help you far more than a degree in fine arts toward your goal of being a full time artist. I think you're on the right track!

Yes, Isabel. Thank you so much for the information. I am awed by your work as well as your patience. I look forward to seeing more.

Xander , thank you so much for your kind words. You're making me blush....

Michele, I know ... That's how I comfort myself. At times, Accounting can SO BORING. I just wish I could burn those books after each exam.

Lisa , You're welcome. Thank you for taking the time to look at my drawings.