The trickiest part of sketching large, complex nebulosity within a star field is accurate positioning of both the stars and the nebula’s structure. Begin by plotting the brightest stars in your sketch as references. Then build up bright nebulosity with the tip of a blending stump loaded with graphite. Plot additional stars as needed to help with positioning, and then render dark nebulosity with a sharpened vinyl eraser. Let’s take a look now at two choice nebulae that make great sketching targets.
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