In this lesson, students will learn how to render various industrial materials such as wood, marble, stone, aluminum, steel, and glass using a variety of art techniques and tools. Architects, industrial designers, and interior designers frequently need to depict different materials realistically in their designs. After practicing rendering techniques, students will apply their skills by illustrating these materials on basic three-dimensional shapes like cubes, cylinders, and spheres.
Industrial and Architectural Rendering
It's important to note that industrial or architectural marker rendering isn't a finished artwork. It meant as a means to quickly communicate ideas visually to teams or clients.
Understand the texture, color, and reflectivity of various industrial materials.
Learn and practice rendering techniques using shading, highlights, and patterns.
Depict materials realistically on 3D shapes such as cubes, cylinders, and spheres.
Explore how material rendering is used in industrial design, architecture, and interior design.
Industrial and Architectural Rendering
It's important to understand that industrial or architectural marker rendering is not intended to be a finished artwork. Rather, it serves as a quick and effective way to visually communicate ideas to teams or clients.
What types of materials do you see around you? (e.g., wood furniture, metal fixtures, glass windows)
Why do architects and designers need to render materials accurately?
Which material do you think is the hardest to draw or paint realistically? Why?
Can you think of any products that are made with any of these materials?
How does light affect the appearance of materials like glass, metal, or stone?
Square Printable Template
Sketchbook
Pencil & Eraser
Color Markers & Colored Pencils
Correction Pen
Several Printable Templates
Basic Shapes
Step 1: Observe and Analyze
Begin by studying reference images or real-life examples of industrial materials such as wood, glass, metal, and stone.
Pay close attention to the unique textures, patterns, and reflections each material displays.
Step 2: Pencil Sketch
Choose one material and lightly sketch its texture or pattern within the squares on the printable template.
Note: Precision isn’t essential—focus on capturing the overall look and feel.
Step 3: Base Color with Markers
Fill in the entire square with a base color that closely matches the material.
Note: Aim for the closest match possible, but an exact color isn’t required.
Step 4: Add Texture with Colored Pencils
Once the marker layer is dry, use colored pencils to draw in textures and patterns.
Note: Make sure the marker is fully dry to avoid tearing the paper.
Step 5: Add Highlights with White Colored Pencil
Use a white colored pencil to subtly add highlights and enhance depth.
Step 6: Brighten with Correction Pen
Apply a correction pen sparingly to create the brightest highlights, such as sharp reflections or gleaming edges.
Step 1: Pencil Sketch
Using printouts of basic 3D shapes, select one industrial material and lightly sketch its texture or pattern onto the surface of one of the shapes.
Note: Focus on placement and form rather than perfect accuracy.
Step 2: Base Color with Markers
Apply a base color using markers to cover the entire shape. Choose a color that closely matches the material you are rendering.
Note: An exact color match is not required—aim for a close approximation.
Step 3: Add Shadows
Using your reference, identify the light source and apply shadows by layering markers to create darker values.
Note: Be careful not to over-layer, as this can damage the paper.
Step 4: Texture with Colored Pencils
Once the marker layer is completely dry, use colored pencils to add texture and fine details that reflect the characteristics of the material.
Step 5: Add Highlights with White Colored Pencil
Use a white colored pencil to subtly highlight areas where light hits the form, enhancing the sense of volume and depth.
Step 6: Final Highlights with Correction Pen
Sparingly use a correction pen to add the brightest highlights, such as sharp glints or reflective surfaces.
Once you're comfortable rendering individual materials, choose a product to draw and apply the rendering techniques you’ve learned to bring it to life.
Texture: The surface quality of a material, such as smooth, rough, or bumpy.
Reflectivity: The ability of a surface to reflect light (e.g., metal and glass are highly reflective).
Transparency: The ability of light to pass through a material, as seen in glass or clear plastic.
Highlight: The brightest area on a material where light is directly hitting it.
Shadow: The dark area created when light is blocked by an object.
Gradient: A smooth transition between light and dark tones or between colors.
Pattern: A repeated decorative design.