Step 1 Using a Graphite 6B pencil, sketch the portrait directly onto the Claybord™ surface.

Step 2 Next, use a small sable brush and a medium dark wash of ink to lay in some "landmarks", such as the subject's eyes and distinctive areas of clothing. These landmarks ensure that you won't lose important features when you go back in later with loose applications of ink or textural effects.

Step 3 Dilute ink with water to a mid-value gray and apply a medium wash over the piece. Next, use a bristle brush or a wadded paper towel to create textures. If you need a rough skin texture, apply the ink with a paper towel. If you need smoother skin, use tissue paper or a soft brush. After the mid-value washes are in, further intensify and define the forms with a darker ink mixture.

Step 4 Once you have the darker areas, continue painting -- refining the image by removing and adding ink. If you need a highlight or a defined edge, scratch off some of the ink using a scratch tool.

Step 5 Continue adding and removing ink to define details and to sharpen or soften edges. Take a close look at the finished image to see the incredible level of detail you can achieve in your drawings and paintings when using this remarkable surface.

Final Project Image
Step 6 One of the wonderful advantages of working on Claybord™ is that you do not have to frame your work under glass. Apply three or four coats of fixative and frame without glass. .