Hatched lines can curve to follow the form of the subject. Sets of hatched lines might go in different directions to indicate the shifting planes of the form being rendered.

Sets of hatched lines that go in different directions and overlap each other can be used to create cross-hatching. An artist might use cross-hatching with overlapping sets of lines on darker planes and hatching with one set of lines on lighter planes.

The quality of the individual hatched lines can vary greatly, from fine to broad, from controlled to unevenly spaced and shaky, and from short to long. The rhythmic nature of hatching can provide both a sense of order and liveliness.

Featured: Portrait of the Postman Joseph Roulin by Vincent Van Gogh.