Introduction: A Penci Sketch of a 1960s Vintage Car

Hello there! Here is a 5-step guide on how to make a pencil sketch of a 1960s vintage car

Supplies

  1. Basic A4/A3 size paper, depending on the scale of the car you want to sketch
  2. Shading Pencils [I primarily used a 6a B pencil and the HB pencil]
  3. A good eraser, an eraser with sharp edges, is a must to get the sharp white lines/highlights on the car

Step 1: Basic Shapes

First, you have to get the placements right to know the proportions, so start with very basic shapes like simple circles to cubes. I started by drawing the middle line that separates the top from the bottom.

Instead of struggling to get the exact position, play with those shapes until you get a basic outline you like! In the image, you can see that I have gone into more of the details, but later on, after doing the basic shapes, you can move on to the greater details, and then the smaller details. I know, the first line or shape might feel scary, but just let your hands be free! And you will soon enjoy it.

Step 2: The Light Parts

Secondly, start of with the lighter parts and gradually move on the darker parts, i don't have an image for this step, but this part goes on quickly, to do it, start filling the darker places with the HB pencil to get more like a layer effect, and don't be afraid to get the negative space correct, because at the end we will bring all the neat white lines by using the eraser.

Step 3: The Dark Parts

This step is the most important one, as it will bring the entire sketch together. Start by adding another layer with the lighter shade created using the HB pencil. It may take some time, so keep working on it until you achieve the shade you like.

Step 4: The Fumes [optional]

This step is optional, but since your hands may be covered in lead, you can rub your finger near the end of the drawing to create a scene where fumes are coming from the car. Begin with a narrow focus and gradually expand the area. In the end, the smudged effect from your fingers can help give a more realistic touch!

Step 5: The Finishing Touches

Good Job! We made it to the end. Now, to bring the whole picture together, we are going to use the eraser to get the neat white lines and reflections. I highly recommend an eraser with sharp edges to get the lines as neat as possible. After making those lines, let's move on to the wheels to get the shine. Erase the top portion of the wheels and the cover as well!

Later on, adjust and erase wherever needed, the last part is to erase the background from all those smudges, but do not erase the fumes that you have made.