Crosshatch

/ˈkrɔːshætʃ/ verb

Definition

To draw or shade an area using two or more sets of parallel lines that cross each other at angles, creating a pattern of small squares or diamonds.

Etymology

From 'cross' (to intersect) and 'hatch' (from 'hachure,' a technique of parallel shading lines from Old French). Artists have used this shading technique for centuries, and the term became standardized in art instruction.

Kelly Says

Crosshatching is the secret weapon of pen-and-ink artists—by layering lines at different angles, they can create any shade from light gray to deep black without using solid colors, and it looks incredibly detailed up close!

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