There are two key factors to getting a smooth finish when using a blending stump: the first is having good shading technique. The second trick to blending is to use light pressure. Press too hard and you'll damage the paper and get a blotchy, uneven mess!
In this video I'll demonstrate three ways to use blending stumps effectively to blend shading in your drawings. I'll also show you the best way to clean blending stumps while you are drawing and what to do when they get too dirty.
00:20 What Are Blending Stumps And Tortillons?
01:32 Technique 1: Smoothing One Value
02:03 Technique 2: Blend Two Values
02:48 Technique 3: Soften Hard Edges
03:12 How To Clean Blending Stumps
Before you can blend well, you need to be able to shade well! If you aren't yet confident with shading light and dark values, you should check out this video: Test Your Shading Skills! Plus Shading Exercises For Beginners • Test Your Shading Skills! Plus Shadin...
✏ Soft Serve Icecream Cone Tutorial on Shading & Blending ($16) available here: https://thepencilroomonline.podia.com...
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PRODUCT LINKS:
Blending Stump & Tortillon Set With Sandpaper Included: https://amzn.to/3O5po6B Blending stumps vary a lot between brands. If you want to try them out, I'd suggest getting a cheap set like this and give them ago before buying individual sizes from an art store.
Tombow Mono Zero Eraser Pen https://amzn.to/39UqOQr
Tombow Mono Pencil Set incl sharpener: https://amzn.to/3LBN2FJ
Tombow Mono Pencil Set incl Eraser Pen (pencils require sharpening): https://amzn.to/3LDxodT
Staedtler Mars Technico, comes with a 2mm HB lead and has a sharpener in the top https://amzn.to/3iJvoVx I use 4B leads (pack of 12): https://amzn.to/3VLFuDZ
Faber Castell Kneadable Eraser: https://amzn.to/3OE9kGM
Some items may be affiliate links which means I receive a small commission if you purchase via the link. I only list products I use and recommend.