Why are edges so important in a drawing?

Why are edges so important in a drawing?

This question often arises, especially among beginners who are absorbing and applying a wealth of new information. Remember, it's all part of the learning journey.

Having the correct edges in a drawing is not only important but vital to achieving realism. Understanding this concept can make or break a drawing; now that you know, you're one step closer to mastering it. 

Here is a visual explanation of the difference between the two tomatoes I have drawn in coloured pencil. The one on the left has the correct edges and transitions between values for a shiny, round subject. The tomato looks firm, juicy and realistic.

On the other hand, the one on the right has heavy outlines that enclose the subject and incorrect transitions between the different values, leaving it looking flat and lifeless and not much like a tomato at all.

A tomato drawn with coloured pencils

I wish I had known this when I was younger. I struggled to make my work look realistic, and it took me many years to realise the difference drawing the correct edges can make, so I hope this tip can save you years of angst.

Have edges, not outlines. Outlines separate the subject from the background, making it look flat and unrealistic. The subject is solid and has a continuing surface beyond the outline we initially drew. Therefore, it is an edge, not an outline. My tip is to gently erase your outline as you begin filling in the subject and have a light guideline to avoid this error. 

There is a wonderful saying; “Before you can draw, you must be able to see.”  

This statement should be at the forefront of your mind as you draw. Carefully observe the edges and transitions of the values on your subjects for a more accurate and realistic drawing. 

In all my tutorials in my Animal Artists Academy, I describe the process of drawing edges correctly and how important it is in each and every drawing.

Join the Animal Artists Academy here!