Covid #6 Challenge: Fabric

This weeks challenge has been inspired by SW's red mask - so you can either thank or blame her! I thought it would be good to review fabrics with you, folds, creases, highlights, etc. This should be a tonal study so graphite or charcoal would be best. But if you choose to do it in color that is fine too, please remember the lessons you have learned over the past two weeks of your Hue studies.

Find a soft piece of cloth, a fabric that can hold a bit of shape but not be too stiff. Something like a linen tea-towel or silk or wool scarf can be good. Gently toss it onto your table top, or tie it in a knot (see link below), fiddle with it a bit if you wish. You might want to have a good light source shining across from one direction. Now observe the various peaks and valleys made by the folds. Pay attention to the dark areas and the highlights. Try and remember to draw the shapes you see, not what you think they should be - think of the six basic drapery lines: 

There are six basic shapes and lines that make up most drapery, which are the J shape, the S shape, the curved line, the V shapes, U shape and Pipe fold.

• Sharp folds or creases are drawn with the V shape. You will find this shape in areas where there is a lot of tension in the fabric, such as jeans pulling across the hip joint or where the fabric is crunched.
• Soft, shallow folds are drawn with the U shape.
• S shapes and curved lines are used to denote draping or deep folds, usually indicating curves of the figure underneath.
• J shapes are used to convey the look of cloth when it gently folds onto itself or folds around the body wearing it.
• Pipe fold – think of organ pipes in a row and you have the general idea

Remember to consider whenever you are drawing any type of fabric the direction that the fabric is going to be pulled in. Folds are caused wherever the fabric is being stretched or pulled or folded; figure out how exactly you want the fabric to move and arrange it on your workspace. Folds are accented and highlighted by light and shadow.

Observe the example below and see how the I have used the above basic shapes along with light and shade to create draped fabric.

'After the Opening' ©Linda Weil

Consider studying some of the masters of fabrics, like Albrecht Dűrer: 

Fabric Study by Albrecht Dűrer

You can also watch a few videos for more hints and tips. This one is good HERE.

Have fun! I look forward to seeing your work.