Drawing · Fundamentals

Value ladder drill

Train your eye for light and shadow.

All topics / Drawing prompts

Ready to copy - no placeholders.

Draw a 7-step value scale, then shade two simple objects using only 3 values (light, mid, dark). Add a quick note on edges and light direction.

No placeholders - just copy and use.

  • Medium (pencil/charcoal)
  • Objects to study
  • 7-step scale
  • 3-value studies
  • Edge/light notes
  • Squint to simplify values.
  • Keep mids dominant; sparing use of pure dark.
  • Use soft and hard edges intentionally.