Do I need to hold the pencil in different ways for different kinds of shading methods?

Question

There are different types of shading techniques like criss cross, straight lines, circular shading, blending, scribbling, and dot shading (drawing dots close to each other).I draw and shade everything by holding the pencil the same way I hold it for writing simply because I don't know better.Does holding the pencil in a particular way for particular types of shading result in better outputs? If yes, then please guide how to hold the pencil for different kinds of shading methods.

Answer 1

Hi! That's a great question. Using the tip of the pencil will give you one result, but if you hold the pencil between your index and middle finger and hold pencil with your thumb for stability, turn your hand over so the palm is facing kind of upwards and elbow is off table, you can use the side of the pencil graphite, giving you a broader and softer line for shading. It sounds complicated, but if you can visualize what I am describing, you'll discover a whole new way to shade and draw. Also, there are drawing pencils that have different hardness leads for variety of line. A must for the serious artist. Good Luck!