a Boy Lighting a Pipe

Create a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure.

Establish the darkest areas of the painting with a diluted dark brown or black.

Begin building up the mid-tones using hatching and cross-hatching techniques.

Pay close attention to the direction and density of the lines to create form and texture.

Refine the details of the face, hands, and clothing, adding subtle variations in tone.

Use a fine brush or pen to add the smallest details, such as the lines around the eyes and mouth.

Adjust the overall tonal balance to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

Add final highlights to emphasize the light source and create contrast.