The way shade lines follow a scroll's spine gives a certain feel and style to an engraving overall, adding dimension and life to the art. Sometimes, though, an engraver chooses to do something with shade lines that is a little different – and really eye-catching.

Patterns like this one engraved by Jordi Solé of Barcelona, Spain are visually stunning while being quite nontraditional. The placement and value (how light or dark) of the shade lines tell lighting, and lighting tells shape. These lines show that the elements are made of sharp, smooth edges because the lines get darker closer to the center. In contrast, shade lines that become lighter closer to the center would suggest a rounded surface.

Jordi has made precise scroll-like shapes for a dramatic and graphic effect. Consider the light source and the surface of an element when deciding where to place shade lines. Is the surface smooth or textured? Are the edges torn or razor sharp? Is the lighting coming from above, the right, in front? These are important questions when considering shade lines. Experiment with shapes and shading like this and discover something new.