Tortillons

Tortillons are small drawing tools used to blend graphite, charcoal, and pastel on paper. They consist of tightly rolled sheets of paper formed into a cone or short cylinder, often with a pointed tip at one end for fine work and a broader edge at the other for larger areas. They are designed to produce smooth transitions and soft edges without the need to touch the media with the artist's fingers.

The shapes vary: conical, cylindrical, or wedge-tipped; sizes range from fine point to broader stumps. They are typically made from inexpensive newsprint, kraft, or similar paper and are intended to be used until they are dirty or worn, at which point they are discarded or trimmed to expose fresh fibers. The term tortillon originates from French, referring to a small twist or coil, reflecting the tool’s rolled-paper construction.

Usage involves holding the tortillon like a pencil and applying gentle pressure, using small circular or back-and-forth motions to blend. Rotate the tool to avoid visible strokes and maintain even transitions. The tip is used for precise shading or line work, while the side handles broader areas. For darker values, repeat layering with clean edges or use a clean tortillon for new tonal steps. They can also lift pigment slightly with a kneaded eraser for subtle highlights.

Care and maintenance are straightforward: after use, wipe away residue on a scrap of paper and replace or trim dirty tortillons to reveal clean fibers. Store them dry in a container to protect the tips.