Using the information provided by the scientist, a documentation process is implemented to ensure understanding of the specimen to be illustrated, with the aim of identifying the distinctive characteristics of the species, its size and proportions at the desired stage of life.

Specimens from the herbarium of the Botanical Garden of Madrid, sheet number BC950790 have been used in this work.

From the drawings and notes taken from the herbarium, a linear sketch is made, representing the essential features that illustrate the archetype of the species. This initial sketch is sent to the scientist for any necessary corrections.

Once the scientist has approved the sketch, the process continues. 

All the information obtained from the linear sketch,  a  carefull  study of form and volume of each component of the archetype of the species is produce in graphite. A composition study is carried out to produce a complete and visually appealing figure. 

This study is the second draft sent to the scientist, who checks that all structures and shapes are correctly represented. 

Once the second draft has been approved, the final rendering of the illustration begins. The sketch is transferred to a new canvas and inked by hand, taking care to faithfully reproduce the shapes and volumes. Using specialised illustration and design software, the figure is digitised so that it can be used, shared and modified.