Shade lines can be challenging for many new engravers. Learning to control a graver is one thing — executing well-spaced, natural shade lines is another. This Al Mar knife engraving has fine shade lines that are perfect for study.

Engraved by Christian DeCamillis, this stainless steel knife has a design filled with shading examples. Each element has a unique form implied by its shade lines. Compare the flowers to the leaves. The curve of a shade line gives a flower its shape, and the spacing of each shade line contributes to the overall dimension of each leaf.

Note how his shade lines taper out slightly from start to finish, creating a feeling of dimension. This is important to note — many students try to cut shade lines the same width all the way through. To improve your shade lines, practice! Start out small, perhaps with a few well-designed leaves, and cut shade lines for each one.

For more information about cutting shade lines, download the Engraving Shade Lines guide to get started. Learn more about Christian DeCamillis and view some of his work on his Instructor Bio page.