What is advised for achieving legibility in line drawing?

Starting with light lines and darkening them later is an effective technique for achieving legibility in line drawing. This approach allows the artist to create a foundation in which the overall composition and structure are established without the risk of committing too heavily to certain lines before the design is fully developed. Light lines enable the artist to make adjustments and corrections more easily, ensuring that the final drawing captures the intended details and proportions. Once the overall composition is satisfactory, the lines can be darkened to enhance clarity and emphasis, contributing to a more polished and legible final piece.

Using dark lines throughout, while it may seem straightforward, can lead to a lack of flexibility in the drawing process. If mistakes are made early on, they can be difficult to correct, which can compromise the overall quality. Similarly, using uniform line weights and avoiding any variation could detract from the visual interest and clarity of the drawing. Varying line weights often adds depth and emphasis, improving legibility by guiding the viewer’s eye to the focal points of the drawing. Thus, starting with light lines allows for more control and adaptability, making the drawing process smoother and more effective in achieving legibility.