I think I need to move on to another area for a while and come back to the pine tree scenario later…

I experimented with a tip that looks a lot like a calligraphy pen to shade the branches. It was difficult, but I taught myself another tip- SAND PAPER can help to lighten up the marks if they are not too deep! This helped a lot in creating the light shades.

Not really sure where to go next… I’m more than just a little intimidated to attempt shading the deer…

But I guess this is a good stopping point. I’m going to have to take a break from my project for a few days. I’m leaving for Chicago tomorrow and won’t be back until the 29th. That gives me 5 days to think about it and another 4 days to complete it. I’m hoping it comes together!