Stippling

Term from Illustration industry explained for recruiters

Stippling is a drawing and illustration technique where artists create images using many tiny dots. Instead of using regular lines or shading, artists place dots close together or far apart to create different shades and textures. This technique is often used in professional illustration work, especially for detailed scientific illustrations, architectural drawings, or artistic pieces. It's similar to pointillism in painting but is typically done in black and white using pens or digital tools. When you see this term in a resume, it shows that the candidate knows how to create precise, detailed illustrations using this specific dot-based method.

Examples in Resumes

Created detailed medical textbook illustrations using Stippling technique

Developed brand identity artwork using traditional Stippling and digital methods

Produced editorial illustrations for magazine using Stippling and Dot Work techniques

Typical job title: "Stipple Artists"

Also try searching for:

Illustrator Scientific Illustrator Technical Artist Editorial Illustrator Digital Artist Pen and Ink Artist Medical Illustrator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain how you would approach a large-scale stipple illustration project with tight deadlines?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should discuss project planning, time management, possibly combining traditional and digital techniques, and methods for maintaining consistency across multiple pieces while meeting deadlines.

Q: How do you adapt stippling techniques for different print and digital media requirements?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of how stippling translates across different media, understanding of resolution requirements, and ability to modify technique based on final output needs.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What tools and techniques do you use for stippling, both traditional and digital?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss various pen types, digital software options, and demonstrate knowledge of different dot patterns and their effects.

Q: How do you determine dot density for different tonal values?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for creating different shades and textures through dot spacing and size variation.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is stippling and why might it be chosen over other illustration techniques?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basics of creating images with dots and understand common applications like scientific or technical illustration.

Q: Can you describe your process for planning a stipple illustration?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic preparation steps like sketching, determining light sources, and planning dot density.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic dot technique mastery
  • Simple shading with dots
  • Basic digital stippling tools
  • Understanding of light and shadow

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex texture creation
  • Digital and traditional expertise
  • Efficient time management
  • Advanced shading techniques

Senior (5+ years)

  • Master-level dot control
  • Project management
  • Teaching and mentoring ability
  • Mixed media integration

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No portfolio showing stipple work
  • Lack of understanding of light and shadow
  • No knowledge of industry standard tools
  • Poor attention to detail
  • Unable to show progression of work