This has really made me think of how I should be using my pencil correctly and what pencil to use.

I can really see a lot of improvement! Well done Stan👏🏼

So I've gone back and tried to get better and more consistent at shading, but it always feels like a mess. How do you guys get consistent shading down so far? Do you shade vertically first, and then horizontally until get that perfect shade down? How about using the sharp side vs dull side of your pencil or a mixture of the two?

If I already have a couple of cheap sets of pencils - one from a supermarket and one from a random Chinese brand (Martol) - I'm wondering if there is any value in spending £20 on a set of pencils from a decent brand. Has anyone got any thoughts on the subject? I'm interested in opinions but also to hear what other people are using.

Here is a breakdown of the pencils I used. Two lead pencils and a few Staedtler pencils.

Finally performed this exercise.....made a few notes to what I understood I was doing wrong or my understandings so far.... I'd love to have feedback :)

I liked this guy so much I couldn't resist...

finally found some time to get some shading done with each of my pencils. Looking forward to the first assignment.

I just finished this drawing up for a family member who had to put their pup down last week after being with them for almost 14 years. Hopefully I did him justice!

My pencils like this

Practice/Trying out new NicPro mechanical pencil set verses my old Staedtler set.

2B or not 2B. Shakespeare knew his pencils.

Tried shading with different pencils and techniques. Staedtler graphite sketch pencils were used for shading above the line. Staedtler Mars Lumograph Black pencils were used for below the line.

@Proko Quick question sorry if this is posted somewhere I didn't see it. I realize the course just started and I caught up on the videos but is there a schedule for the lessons like everyday or twice a week?

Doing some values practice today. One of my weak points I really want to smooth out this year. I'm keeping with the spirit of each lesson released so as to not get too ahead of myself. Patience is key here. I am looking forward to the lesson assignments in the coming weeks.

Finally having fun again after a lot! I feel really motivated. Keep practicing...

Love to draw but it's been a while. Enjoyed loosening up and getting familiar with materials. Not as neat and tidy as some of you but I always enjoy a good scribble 😊

I tried out my Cretacolor and Staedtler graphite pencils. Good practice for me using tip vs side. Different angles, different effects.

Stan, where does moleskin fit into your sketchbook review?