Observe the metal object’s form and light source
Sketch the basic shape with clean, simple lines
Block in the darkest shadows first
Place sharp highlights where light reflects most strongly
Use smooth gradients to show reflective surfaces
Add hard edges where reflections change abruptly
Include subtle midtones between highlights and shadows
Mirror nearby colors and shapes in the metal surface
Keep contrast high for shiny metal
Use soft blending for polished metal
Use rougher texture and broken reflections for brushed metal
Add small value shifts to suggest curvature
Refine edges and reflections to match the object’s material
Deepen shadows and brighten highlights for final contrast