When I look in the mirror and see a huge smudge of graphite on my cheek, I know I’ve had a good day.
I know not everyone is a fan of getting filthy when making art, though. So I found a way to use graphite powder to create rich textures and tone without creating a storm of grey dust every time I use it.
After several sleepless nights wondering how I’d weave it into my arsenal of art supplies, the idea struck me: PUT IT IN A WATERBRUSH. This gives me easy access to gorgeous, gritty textures that mix beautifully with my paints. I can build up tone in treetops, sketch loosely on location, and basically have a tin of Artgraf at my fingertips.
I’ve been using graphite powder in the same cheap, ratty waterbrush for more than a month now without a single clog. This is a serious artistic achievement. Do they issue awards for things like this? They really should.
✏️Why not just use a pencil?
I love pencils! But sometimes they switch on my perfectionism. When I’m drawing to access ideas, I need that part of my brain to be locked into the OFF position. So the graphite powder in a waterbrush is my new best friend.
🖤 Graphite chat
Are you thinking of using graphite powder? What will you use it for?
Have you used it before? What was that like?
What is your favorite form of graphite, pencil, stick, liquid, Artgraf tin, etc.?
Do you prefer charcoal? (tell me why!)
I need to know everything! 😬
