Pencil Shading Lab
Works in your browser · no account or upload Version 1.0.1 · Richer form shading, surface detail, and contact shadows.
Move the light, see how the form changes, and sketch what you observe.
Preparing your study…
How to use Pencil Shading Lab
- Pick a form or start with a lighting study.
- Move the key light and compare its effect on the form and the ground shadow.
- Hide the guides, make a paper sketch, then compare. Download a PNG or print a Letter or A4 study sheet.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this for pencil drawing?
Yes. Use the image as a reference while you draw on paper. Start with large shapes and values before details. This tool does not grade drawings.
How is this different from Value Study Lab?
Value Study Lab simplifies an existing photo. Here you can change a three-dimensional form, the key light, and the camera, then study the new lighting.
Do I need 3D software?
No. The local 3D renderer opens in this browser. A supported WebGL browser is needed for light and camera editing. If graphics are unavailable, clearly labeled static studies remain available.
What is a terminator?
The terminator is where the key light stops reaching the surface. It is not the same as the cast shadow on the ground. A softly filled shadow can still show detail; it is not automatically reflected light.
Can teachers print a worksheet?
Yes. Choose US Letter or A4 and Reference Only or Reference + Blank Practice Area. Print / Save PDF and Ctrl+P both use the current setup. The image is a study aid, not a physically measured illumination model.
What stays in my browser?
Your setup stays in this tab unless you explicitly save on this device or download a project. Reference transfers use temporary local storage for up to 12 hours. No runtime AI service, account, or image upload is used.