How to Draw 3D Forms Using Shading

Here is fun and simple exercise to practice using value to make objects appear 3D.

Steps

1
Draw some symmetrical vase shapes. Make sure to give them an ellipse/oval shape for the opening. Use curved, straight and zigzag lines.
2
Draw the "horizon line" or table line behind the forms, about in the middle of the page.

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3
Determine your light source.
4
Begin shading. Start with the forms farthest from your light source to avoid dragging your hand through graphite. Make the shadows farthest from the light source very dark. Leave the highlights white.
5
Continue with the other forms.
- When shading the inside of the vessels (the ellipses), be sure to place the highlight on the side farthest from the light source, and the shadow closer to the light source (because the light hits the inside of the vase where the shadow would be on the outside).
6
Determine where the cast shadows would fall. Line up the vessel with the light source using a ruler if you wish. This employs one-point perspective which helps create three-dimensionality.
7
Create a dark value for the shadow. The cast shadow should be as wide as the vessel. Create a light value for the whole surface of the table: this creates contrast between the still-life scene and the background.
8
Go back and make the dark shadows even darker: the contrast makes the forms pop out. Make finishing touches, and you're done!