Woodcutting
This illustration- form gained popularity in the middle ages and was prominently used after the printing press was invented. As the name indicates, this type of illustration is created by engraving images on wood and was widely used in China for block-printing purposes. Pencil Illustration Artists use a pencil to sketch their ideas, applying varying shades, effects, and line weights. They may use color pencils or graphite lead to create unique and stunning illustration.
Charcoal Illustration
Charcoal illustration may not appear as precise as pencil illustration, however, this type of illustration is used in stories, portraits, and in cases where rough construction lines need visibility. The best part of using charcoal is that it blends excellently, which is why you can use it with differing hardness for creating beautiful effects or shadows. However, to prevent unnecessary smudging, you may want to clear the mess with your fingers or use blending tools and fixatives.
Lithography Illustration
Lithography and traditional illustration styles and techniques complement each other every well. Earlier, people used wax, fat or oil to draw on the smooth surface of a limestone plate. However, at present, offset lithography is widely used to create illustration.
Watercolor Illustration
The fineness associated with watercolor illustration allows it to be used as an effective tool for storytelling. Watercolor artwork is noted for its detailing and depth and no wonder why it is is extensively used in children’s books. Using a delicate and creative combination of airy and lighter shades, artists can create extraordinary, thought-provoking watercolor illustration.
Acrylic Illustration
This type of illustration is ideal for beginners. Artists use acrylic paint on various surfaces such as cloth or canvas to create an illustration. Acrylic paints are available in different finishes and they become water-resistant once they dry up.
Pen and Ink Illustration
This illustration type is noted for its precision and detailing, and its ability to create contrasts between the elements. Even though pen and ink illustration is monochromatic, it is still possible to create detailed work by applying a single color with varying tints on the plain surface. Notably, fine lines with varying characteristics and densities are used in conjunction with dots for creating technical drawings or diagrams.
Technical Illustration
Technical illustrations are generally line drawings that illustrate product details, assembly, or repair procedure in a 2D or 3D engineering style designed for the non-engineering public. A maps are good exacmples of technical illustration.