Friday, September 11, 2020

Staedtler Mars Lumograph Pencil Chart on Alpha Surface

One of the things I like to do are charts on various paper surfaces based on how I use or apply various mediums.

I worked this chart in the Stillman and Birn Alpha sketchbook using Staedtler Mars Lumograph pencils.  Two pencils are missing from the set and I will have to order them to complete the chart but I can always add those later.  Although honestly, I'm questioning whether I really need those two grade pencils.

What this chart specifically tells me is that I would probably get the most use out of 4B and 2B.  Maybe HB but I can always use my mechanical pencil or the F or H in this set if necessary.

This shows where I can obtain dark values as seen with 8B just using a 4B pencil.  Although I'm sure I could go darker using 5,6,7 or 8B pencils than what is showing in the chart, I only go so far with pressure so not to damage the paper.  I'm not crazy about how bad the softer (and darker) graphite smears or how difficult it can be to erase.  4B seems to be the sweet spot for me out of the set with darks and ease in erasing.  Smearing is slightly less than those softer grades.  2B used initially when lightly sketching and 4B to darken.

I can't remember ever using any of the H grades and not sure I ever will.



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