Chapter 4 | FOLIAGE IN GROUPS
Each arm with its branches gives rise to a group of leaves. The groups lie in front of and behind each other because a tree isn’t a flat structure. Using a simplified model, I will show you how you can build this up and perhaps later recognize when drawing real trees.
Exercise 1:
Step 3: now draw leaves within each group. Let them point in different directions.
A CHRISTMAS TREE
Exercise 2: As you can see for a Christmas tree you need a different basic shape than the circles from exercise 1. Start as lightly as possible with the two groups at the bottom center, just above the trunk. Then work in a zigzag pattern from bottom to top, gradually decreasing in size. Then, also starting from bottom, draw the overlapping groups on either side. This automatically creates the typical triangular shape. Finally make the branches more realistic.
EXTRA: Sketching in grayscale
Loosely sketch the entire shape of a tree in gray with a soft pencil (2B or softer), as a large blob without clear outlines. For larger sizes, use charcoal. Loosely add lighter areas for groups of leaves with an eraser/kneaded eraser (think of the circles from exercise 1). Then loosely add extra dark/shadow between groups of leaves and on a shadowy side of your choice. In my example, the light comes from the right. Finally, add some details that will help you recognize the shape of the leaves, but don’t do this too regularly or precisely.
