Every now and then you are confronted with the fact that the white of the paper does not give the desired effect. This may be because the paper is not completely white in color, the spot can no longer be erased properly or because there is simply too little contrast in that part of the drawing.
In the beginning I tried all kinds of white pencils but this didn't work. These work well on colored paper but over a graphite layer they do not leave any white. In any case, no visible white.
I have discovered that there are several ways to get white in your drawing in order to get the desired contrast.
Gouache
First I came up with white gouache paint. The paint I use gives a good opaque result. Great for small highlights. Large areas are also fine, although gouache paint does have a matte finish. In dark graphite surfaces where several layers are applied, graphite often has a glossy finish. The matte paint then contrasts considerably with the glossy graphite layer.
You apply gouache with a brush and it dries where you stand. If desired, you can draw over it again.
Gel pen
On the internet you often read that people use gel pens for white accents. Such a pen is especially useful for hair growth. Although I must confess that these pens do not really work well on graphite. Graphite residues seem to keep the tip clogged regularly, so you keep cleaning the tip. In addition, the graphite layer often seems too smooth, so that the gel does not really want to stick to the graphite layer.
Correction markers
A great alternative to gel pens is the correction pen. For example, I have a the Tipp-Ex correction pen that is easy to use. You squeeze the reservoir and the micro tip ensures that you can work fairly accurately.
Edding also has a correction pen that works handy, although I personally think that the correction fluid is a bit thinner in this pen, so you should pay attention that it does not get messy.
For both applies that the liquid dries quickly and if necessary you can just draw over it again. A big surface is not a easy job with theses pens.
Aqua Drops
Schmincke has marketed Aqua Drops. This is a liquid watercolor paint. Below them is an opaque white. Because I use my white gouache paint occasionally, I found out that after a few years the paint in the tube started to dry out. Sometimes it was a hard job to reopen the tube and the paint became stiffer in terms of substance after time. Because I thought it was a shame to replace an almost full tube for a new one, the Aqua Drops seemed to be a great alternative to try.
The paint is not as opaque as expected. If you want an opaque result, you have to apply several layers, which is not always desirable. A high light in hair becomes less natural if you try to make the same line several times. But a high light with some transparency is sometimes also desirable. The Aqua Drops are therefore a welcome addition to the white opportunities, but unfortunately no replacement for the gouache.
Hair made with Gel Pen
White foam made with Gouache
High light made with correction Pen
Transparant high light made with Aqua Drops
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