White and Grey: Perfecting the Details

When it comes to my jewellery designs and illustrations, I prefer a realistic approach. Through numerous trials and errors, I have discovered several helpful techniques to achieve the level of realism I strive for. The key to creating a polished and sophisticated illustration in a realistic style is in the white highlights and dark definition.

These techniques apply to my client workshop sketches and manufacturing drawings, as well as high-end artwork. They are not time-consuming and do not require an extensive toolset.

With just a few materials, including white gouache, a fine brush, a white gel pen, a grey pencil or marker, and a fine black pen or marker, you can add defining details to any illustration in no time.

Using white gouache, you can produce white highlights that give a 3D appearance to the jewelry item and act like a final polish. The contrast between the bright colors, shadows, and a clean, crisp white highlight finish an illustration by outlining a high point or a focal point that draws you into the design.

I recommend using Winsor and Newton Zinc or Permanent White gouache for the best results.

To create shadows, use a grey pencil or marker to provide contrast to the white highlights and emphasize the colors and shades in the illustration. Apply the shadow at the lowest point to define the boundary of the jewelry item and reinforce its 3D form.

I suggest using C1 and C3 Copic markers for most of your shadowing needs.

These small additional will make a difference!