Why Do You Need to Apply Maintenance in Your Drawing Instruments and Materials?

The importance of maintaining your drawing instruments and materials cannot be overstated. Just like any other craft, the tools and materials you use play a crucial role in the quality of your work. Even seemingly minor issues can impact the precision and final appearance of your drawings. Therefore, it's essential to keep your tools and materials in optimal condition for the best results.

The Optimum State of Your Drawing Tools

Each tool you use for drawing, whether it's a pencil, eraser, or a block of sandpaper, should be in a state that allows for the best possible performance. Take, for example, a block of sandpaper used for shaping pencil points. Ideally, it should be free of loose pencil shavings to avoid spilling or smearing on your project. It should be clean and ready for immediate use.

Your pencils should be meticulously sharpened and placed in an easily accessible location. Your drawing paper should be clean, dry, and free of crinkles and creases. You should have a ready supply of thumbtacks for securing the paper to your wooden board. Your easel should be free of dust, pencil shavings, and eraser grit. Additionally, remember to wax your struts regularly to ensure smooth adjustments. Maintaining these tools will enhance your drawing experience and productivity.

Investing in Quality Materials

The quality of your work is directly reflected in the materials you use. Investing in good quality materials, especially for painting and drawing, is essential for achieving the best results. For instance, higher-quality paints will have more vibrant and richer pigmented colors. Investing in the best quality brushes you can afford is also crucial as it impacts the way the paint is applied and the final appearance of your work.

Furthermore, it's important to choose proper papers for each particular medium. The quality of the paper can significantly affect the outcome of your drawings. Investing in these materials may seem expensive, but if you take good care of them, they can last for many years. This ensures that your tools and materials are always at their best, allowing you to produce high-quality work consistently.

Importance of Good Care for Tools and Equipment

Proper maintenance of your tools and equipment is the first step in becoming a proficient artist. Having well-maintained tools means you can focus on your work without being interrupted by the need to look for or replace tools. It also means you can make a list of what you want to accomplish instead of being sidetracked by the need to acquire tools for specific tasks.

In the long run, well-maintained tools can last a lifetime and sometimes longer. This is particularly true in fields such as violin making, where many tools are passed down through generations. I, being a violin maker, have tools that belonged to friends who are no longer with us, and sometimes tools from people I never met. These tools have a personal connection and often feel right in the hands of the user. Sometimes, a well-maintained tool can tell a lot about a person's skill and attention to detail.

Regardless of the trade, maintaining tools properly is a reflection of a craftsman's commitment and care. A well-maintained and properly used tool is more likely to produce a high-quality end result. So, invest in good quality materials, care for your tools, and you'll see the difference in your work.