Choosing the Wrong Type of Charcoal Stick
One of the most common mistakes artists make when using charcoal sticks is selecting the wrong type of charcoal. There are two main types of charcoal: willow and vine. Willow charcoal is softer and produces darker tones, while vine charcoal is harder and produces lighter tones. The type of charcoal you choose will affect the outcome of your artwork, so it’s important to choose wisely.
Not Properly Securing the Charcoal Stick
Another mistake many artists make is not properly securing the charcoal stick. Charcoal can be messy and easily smudge, so it’s important to use a fixative to hold the material in place. You can also use a holder to make it easier to handle and control the charcoal. If you don’t secure the charcoal stick, your artwork may end up looking blurry or even ruined if the charcoal smudges in the wrong places.
Applying too Much Pressure
When using charcoal sticks, many artists tend to apply too much pressure when making marks on the paper. This not only wastes the material, but it can also damage the surface of the paper. Charcoal is designed to be used in a delicate manner, with lighter strokes that can be built up gradually to achieve the desired effect.
Not Experimenting with Different Techniques
Charcoal sticks are a versatile medium that can be used for a variety of techniques, including blending, scumbling, stippling, and hatching. Many artists make the mistake of sticking to the same technique for every artwork, which can limit their creativity and growth as an artist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to find out what works best for you and your art.
Not Treating the Finished Artwork with a Fixative
Once you have finished your artwork, it’s important to treat it with a fixative to prevent the charcoal from smudging and to preserve the artwork for years to come. Many artists make the mistake of not treating their art with a fixative, which can result in the artwork deteriorating over time. Use a good quality fixative that is specifically designed for use with charcoal to ensure the best results.
