NOrmally, I retrace all the lines with pen, like I did in the second one, but that I was too lazy to do it this time. I'll try your advice, too. I need all I can get.
Do you have Photoshop?
Even with Photoshop, pencil is difficult to clean up. Use the pen. Try wider nib black and grays to fill in. Try a lettering guide to make your letters equal height and aid in line spacing. Pick one up at arts/crafts/drafting stores. Looks, something, like this:
_____________________________________
! _____________________________ !
! (_____________________________) !
! _____________________________ !
! ( ) !
! (_____________________________) !
! _____________________________ !
! ( ) !
! ( ) !
! (_____________________________) !
!_____________________________________!
for, say, 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" letters. It's plastic.
Good job!!