Cross-hatch

Cross-hatching is a drawing technique used to create tonal or shading effects by drawing closely spaced parallel lines (hatching), which are then intersected by another set of parallel lines oriented at an angle. The density of the lines and the angle between them determines the perceived darkness or lightness of the shaded area. This technique allows artists to create depth, volume, and texture in their drawings, simulating the play of light and shadow. The closeness of the lines determines the final value from the art produced, where they can overlap and create a smooth gradient from light to dark values. The direction of the lines also contributes to the form of the subject.

Cross-hatch meaning with examples

• The artist employed fine cross-hatching to render the folds in the fabric, giving the impression of a soft, undulating surface. Observe how the dense lines on the left suggest shadows, while the sparser hatching on the right depicts the highlights. The careful application of the technique creates a sense of depth, making the illustration pop from the page, creating contrast.
• In his botanical drawings, the artist used cross-hatching to show the texture of the leaves. By varying the angle and pressure of his pen strokes, he depicted the veins and surface irregularities. This technique allowed him to convey a lifelike impression of the plants, showcasing their unique features. Each stroke was carefully done to capture the true depth of the piece.
• The architectural rendering utilized cross-hatching to differentiate between materials. Stone walls were rendered with coarse, closely spaced lines, while glass surfaces were left relatively un-hatched. This distinction allowed for a clear understanding of the building's construction, clearly showing the different types of materials at play. The varying approaches gave the piece a visual hierarchy.
• During the workshop, the instructor demonstrated how to achieve a sense of volume through cross-hatching. Participants practiced building up layers of lines to define the curves of a sphere. This helped the students to understand how to use the technique to create believable forms. The use of direction created the illusions necessary to define an image.