Charcoal Drawing

Begin your charcoal drawing adventure!

Charcoal drawing is unique in its versatility: You can sketch like you would with graphite (but darker and faster!) or you can layer and blend it with white like a painting.

In this class, you'll learn simple approaches using black and white charcoal on toned paper that can be applied to any subject. Begin by learning sketching principles to help you achieve proportion and structure, apply light logic for realistic shading, and finally stretch your skills with layering and finishing a final project.

Create Loose Charcoal Sketches

In the first lessons, you'll focus on using shapes to block out your proportion on the page before adding loose but meaningful shading.

Emphasis is placed on the logic of how light falls on a surface, and how to use mark quality and direction to create form and texture.

Layer Black & White Charcoal to Add Dimension

Develop more realistic form by layering black and white charcoal and using background values to support the subject. You'll also start to employ different types of charcoal to achieve varied effects.

Build Atmospheric Drawings

Learn more advanced drawing concepts in a final project featuring the subject of your choice. Here the focus will be on composition, edge design, and creating focal points in your work.

Using observation from life you'll learn to create work that's more realistic than a photo!

Is this course good for beginners?

YES! Even if you are a total beginner, if you want to create drawings that are realistic, with a good sense of proportion, depth, and shading, this class is perfect for you. I walk you through every mark in these demos and you will be surprised at what you can accomplish if you invest the time and the practice! 

What Materials Do I Need?

To complete this course at home, you will need white paper, gray paper, charcoal, white charcoal, some erasers and blending tools, a drawing board, a box or shelf for your still life, and a few other items that most people have around the house.

Download the full materials list PDF

How Virtual Attendance Works

When you register for virtual attendance, you'll receive access to our online platform where meetings are held and class recordings are stored.

Join class live using this Zoom-like platform on your computer, tablet, or phone. Ask questions, watch the demo, and email your work for review all in real time!

Get specific feedback on your progress and next steps as Lacey digitally draws over your photo.