Middle school, and above, aged kids will learn about the value scale and depth by drawing stacked shapes. Value is important for artists to understand to help them use tools more efficiently. This project is easy, requires minimal supplies, and can be done at home or in a classroom.
Art Project Emphasizing Value
For this project, we are experimenting value scale with a simple white charcoal pencil on black paper. Kids will learn how one supply can vary in use and final appearance.
What is value?
The value of art refers to the lightness or darkness of a color.
– masterclass –
By knowing the value scale of a color, artists are able to use fewer supplies, while adding detail, depth, and variety to their work.
Related: See how artists use colored pencil values on these coloring pages
Supplies Needed to Make This Value Scale
- Black Paper – A toned drawing paper works best for this project. The paper needs to have a bit of a rough surface for the charcoal to adhere to.
- White Charcoal – Or chalk pastel of any color
- Cotton Swabs – to blend charcoal
- Shapes – We chose to use a stencil and roll of tape to assist us in drawing our shapes
- Ruler – for straight lines
- Erasers – to clean up any smudges
Directions to Make Value Scale Art
Step 1
Simply trace a line along both sides of a ruler to create a place for the value scale guide. We chose to create 4 layers of shapes in this project. We divided our scale into 4 sections by drawing a line down the center of the scale, and then splitting those two sections in half as well. The child can create as many sections and layers as he or she prefers.
Step 2
Complete the value scale by coloring each section differently. To achieve this with dry art supplies, we simply layer. For one end of the scale, the child is going to apply very little pressure when using the charcoal. As the child moves across the scale, he or she will apply more pressure and layers to achieve different values. If desired, kids can use cotton swabs to blend segments for a smoother result. Tip: Be careful to not cross contaminate when blending.
Step 3
Lightly trace shapes onto paper to form a bottom layer of shapes. We drew 3 shapes per layer, but kids are free to draw more. Just keep total drawing area in mind as we have more layers to go!
Step 4
With light pressure, kids color in the first layer of shapes. When that layer is complete, they need trace more shapes onto the paper. This will be the child’s second layer and represent the next section on the value scale. He or she will fill in these shapes by adding slightly more pressure. Continue this layering process until the child has one layer of shapes representing each section of the value scale. Shapes may overlap or hang off the page.
Step 5
Kids now use a cotton swab to smooth their shapes, being cautious not to blend the layers together. Also, use an eraser to clean any smudges may be left on the paper.
Finished Value Scale Art Project
I love how our finished value scale art project looks. Since this project is created on a piece of paper, it can be framed, hung on the refrigerator, or mounted in any way you choose!
Our Experience Making this Value Scale Art Project
I believe this is a great opportunity for kids to learn the value scale in a fun and interesting way. This project uses few supplies and is easily adaptable to fit various mediums. The simplicity of this project makes it a great lesson for kids at home or in the classroom.
Value Scale Variations
- This project works well with any color chalk or chalk pastel.
- If you don’t have drawing paper, opt for a more rough toned paper such as construction paper. Black cardstock is too smooth for the chalky mediums to adhere to.
- Consider spraying your finished piece with a fixative (or hairspray) to keep it from smearing.
- This project could easily be completed on white paper using colored pencils, pastels, or crayons.
Prep Time
1 minute
Active Time
20 minutes
Total Time
21 minutes
Difficulty
Medium
Materials
- Black Paper – A toned drawing paper works best for this project. The paper needs to have a bit of a rough surface for the charcoal to adhere to.
- White Charcoal – Or chalk pastel of any color
- Cotton Swabs – to blend charcoal
Tools
- Shapes – We chose to use a stencil and roll of tape to assist us in drawing our shapes
- Ruler – for straight lines
- Erasers – to clean up any smudges
Instructions
1. Trace a line along both sides of a ruler to create a place for the value scale guide. Divide it into 4 (or more) segments.
2. Complete the Value Scale by coloring each segment different values. This will be achieved by layering charcoal or adding more pressure while moving across the scale.
3. Lightly trace 3 or more shapes onto paper to form a bottom layer of shapes.
4. With light pressure, kids color in the first layer of shapes. When complete, trace more shapes onto the paper. Continue this layering process until the child has one layer of shapes representing each section of the value scale.
5. Use a cotton swab to smooth shapes, and an erase to remove any smudges.
Other useful value scale art Links from Kids Activities Blog
- Consider having kids cut their own shapes from cardstock with this free printable.
- Make your own chalk and test out its value scale!
- Using chalk? Play a few games at the same time.
- Consider other ways you can use black paper, like in this firework art project!
- Introduce your kids to sharpening pencils with sandpaper!
How did your kids like making a Value Scale Art masterpiece? What shape did they choose to use?
