Step-by-step: Illustrate convincing clothing folds and wrinkles

1

Because the cape’s contortions will be based around the influence of more rigid forms, I establish those first, using 3D posing software it’s quicker to use prefab models. I suggest the tugging cape in the figure’s body language by having his legs projected forward a little.

2

Next, I lay out my main forms. I exaggerate certain qualities (such as how flat the cape is being pulled to suggest greater force), but give every fold clear edges and shadows. Messy or indistinct lines will suggest floppy drawing skills, rather than floppy fabric.

3

I render the colour conservatively, having already delineated the dark and light areas at the line-art stage. I pick out a few key highlights and areas of dim shadow, but for the most part, don’t interfere with the forms as described in black and white.