How to give impression of water?

[Val]

It seems my cat profile has drawn some attention! I have been asked by two people if I could do a silhouette (similar to that of the cat) of their boats! I think I could manage the boat .... but how would I go about showing a bit of wave action? Any suggestions? 

[Annie.]

VAL,
I googled 'scratboarding of water' and 'scratboarding of waves', under images.  There are some interesting examples of quiet waters, storms, etc..

Under waves, most are abstract but a bit down the page, I saw 2 nice ones.

Maybe this will give you ideas and get you started...

[Val]

Thanks for that Annie I'll see what I can find. I guess I wasn't wording it quite right...     I'm not going to attempt scratchboard until my shoulder/arm is sorted.... sharp objects in my right hand may not be the best idea!         So, I'm gathering all the info I can. Thanks again.

[Annie.]

Sounds wise Val!

Exploring with a sharp knife is, as you said  , keep it safe.  Less injury with a soft brush, just avoid the eyes   

I was surprised at the strain on my arthritic fingers when I did my first scratchboard. I was sore for a few days. I will plan my next one for in between flare-ups.

Nice to take time to work up the composition for your boat scenes in your head first.  I should start doing that too.

  Nurse that shoulder well.

[Val]

Thanks Annie, I think it may be a few weeks off. My arm pains just from a bit of typing! It is improving slowly. 

[nolan]

you would add the reflections of the water Val

[Val]

Sorry, such a long delay in getting back.

Nolan, if I'm getting this right.... I would only scratch in the reflections on the water, as opposed to the water itself? The main body of water would remain black.

I did try printing a negative of one of the photos which worked well for the most part.... but the water just confused me even more!  Still can't seem to figure out what's what.              Perhaps I need yet another pair of glasses... or a BIGGER magnifier!        

[Annie.]

 
What about posting your draft?   Maybe some who knows what to do it, could digitally show you...  and us