SMOOTH SCALES
To depict smooth scales, first draw ovals of various sizes; then shade between them. Because scales overlap, be sure to partially cover each scale with the next layer.
ROUGH SCALES
For rough scales, create irregular shapes that follow a slightly curved alignment. Shade darkly between the shapes; then shade over them with light, parallel strokes.
FINE FEATHERS
For light, downy feathers, apply thin, parallel lines along the feather stems, forming a series of V shapes. Avoid crisp outlines, which would take away from the softness.
HEAVY FEATHERS
To create thicker, more defined feathers, use heavier parallel strokes and blend with a tortillion. Apply the most graphite to the shadowed areas between the feathers.
HIDE
To create a shiny, short-haired hide, apply short, straight strokes with the broad side of the pencil. For subtle wrinkles, add a few horizontal strips that are lighter in value.
WAVY HAIR
For layers of soft curls, stroke in S-shaped lines that end in tighter curves. Leave the highlights free of graphite and stroke with more pressure as you move to the shadows.
ROUGH COAT
For a subtle striped pattern, apply short strokes in the direction of fur growth. Then apply darker strokes in irregular horizontal bands. Pull out highlights with an eraser.
SMOOTH COAT
For a smooth, silky coat, use sweeping parallel pencil strokes, leaving the highlighted areas free of graphite. Alternate between the pencil tip and the broad side for variation.
CURLY HAIR
Curly, wooly coats can be drawn with overlapping circular strokes of varying values. For realism, draw curls of differing shapes and sizes and blend for softness.
LONG HAIR
To render long hair—whether it’s the whole coat or just a mane or tail—use longer, sweeping strokes that curve slightly, and taper the hairs to a point at the ends.
WHISKERS
To suggest whiskers, first apply rows of dots on the animal’s cheek. Fill in the fur as you have elsewhere; then, with the tip of a kneaded eraser, lift out thin, curving lines.
NOSE
Most animal noses have a bumpy texture that can be achieved with a very light scale pattern. Add a shadow beneath the nose; then pull out highlights with a kneaded eraser.