On paper 12 x 15 in. (a little less than a half sheet) draw a still life of at least three small objects using ink. Employ cross-hatching, stippling or a combination of techniques. Pay attention to composition, negative space and eye level. You may repeat forms, exaggerate and add elements from your imagination. Notice in the drawing above how the various techniques have been used according to texture. For instance, linear techniques are used on the rock and in the cross-contours of the glass whereas stippling is used in the spongy surface of the octopus and the soft gradations in the cast shadows.
