Page "Drawing" Paragraph 32

Blending uses an implement to soften or spread the original drawing strokes.

Blending is most easily done with a medium that does not immediately fix itself, such as graphite, chalk, or charcoal, although freshly applied ink can be smudged, wet or dry, for some effects.

For shading and blending, the artist can use a blending stump, tissue, a kneaded eraser, a fingertip, or any combination of them.

A piece of chamois is useful for creating smooth textures, and for removing material to lighten the tone.

Continuous tone can be achieved with graphite on a smooth surface without blending, but the technique is laborious, involving small circular or oval strokes with a somewhat blunt point.