Figure 1-1. Graphite pencil sizes and grades
(a) Hardness grades are printed on the pencils, e.g., a very soft graphite pencil is
the 6B which produces the darkest, boldest line. The hardest is the 9H which produces a lighter
line. Be careful when trying to make lighter tones with a soft pencil. You may create an
unwanted grainy effect. However, you can take advantage of a textured effect if you need it (fig
1-3 and fig 1-10). Graphite reflects light and, therefore, appears shiny.
(b) Carpenter's pencils (rectangular graphite) are used for special effects
applications, such as drawing shingles, leaf patterns, and other subjects. See Figure 1-2 on how
to sharpen and hold a carpenter's pencil, and an example of a special effect application.
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