Drawn to the Universe
SEPTEMBER 2010 – Cygnus Loop

Sketch of Cygnus Loop/Veil Nebula

Sketch of Cygnus Loop/Veil Nebula

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September 2010 Astronomy Now thumbnail

This expansive supernova remnant is a visual treat from dark skies. In this column, we sketch the entire field using white charcoal/pastel on black paper.

Subject: Veil Nebula/Cygnus Loop
Issue: September 2010 Astronomy Now
Basic Media: White Charcoal/Pastel Pencils on Black Paper
Featured Technique: Creating a multi-field nebula sketch using white charcoal or pastel pencils on black paper.
Suggested Materials:
  • Smooth, black cardstock such as Daler-Rowney Canford
  • White charcoal, watercolour, or pastel pencil
  • Blending stump
  • Sheet of blank copy paper
  • Putty rubber and white vinyl eraser pencil
  • Craft knife and sanding block
  • Spray fixative such as Winsor and Newton’s Artist Fixative
  • Clipboard and adjustable red observing light