Cross-hatching is a technique that is used to achieve what effect in pencil drawings?

Cross-hatching is a technique used to create shading effects in pencil drawings. This method involves drawing closely spaced parallel lines in one direction and then layering more lines in a different direction at an angle, which builds up darker areas in the drawing. This layering allows the artist to manipulate the density and distribution of lines to create gradation in value, effectively simulating light and shadow.

By varying the pressure on the pencil or the spacing and angle of the lines, artists can achieve different shades and depths, making the technique particularly effective for rendering three-dimensional forms on a two-dimensional surface. Thus, cross-hatching becomes a powerful tool for artists to convey form, volume, and depth by controlling the overall tone within the drawing.