Hi my lovely creatives,
Let’s talk sketchbooks! Whether you're a seasoned sketcher or just starting your artistic journey, join me as we explore tips, techniques, and inspiration for filling your sketchbook with imagination.
How to draw in a sketchbook
I love drawing in my sketchbook for many reasons. It is a great place to collect your memories, you collect your art in one place and you can see your progress over time. It’s a great way to store your artwork in a safe place and noting feels so great as completing a new sketchbook!
All of that said, I know that many of you find it hard to start a sketchbook. People in my community told me they find it scary to start a drawing in a sketchbook as they are worried that if it does not turn out great it will mess up the look of the sketchbook. I also know that people are often intimidated by the wonderful works of art that we see out there on social media.
Let me share some tips here on how to start drawing in your sketchbook and how to keep it fun too!
Firstly- set your intention
What is your intention for this sketchbook project? Is it practicing drawing skills? Or practicing a specific medium (watercolour for example), maybe your sketchbook is meant to be a collection of curated landscape paintings? Maybe you want to use your sketchbook for portrait drawings, urban sketching or journaling.
Whatever the intention of your sketchbook is, choose the book to fit that intention.
Sketchbooks come in lots of different sizes and shapes and with lots of different paper qualities.
Choose the sketchbook suitable for your project.
When you are starting out, a smaller sketchbook might be better as a really think and large book can be overwhelming.
Remember: you can set your intention to create a messy sketchbook!
That way you give yourself permission to experiment and make mistakes.
Whatever the intention for your sketchbook is, take a moment to decide what are materials fit with that intent and then choose the paper quality and materials that suit that intent.
How to start your drawing
now you have chosen your sketchbook and art supplies, it’s time to make your first drawing. Some people find the first page a of a sketchbook very intimidating. If that is you, just skip the first page for now and start drawing in the middle of your sketchbook. Remember, this book is your space and you alone can make the rules.
Set Aside Time for Sketching:
Carve out dedicated time in your schedule for sketching regularly. Whether it's a few minutes each day or a longer session once a week, make sketching a priority and commit to filling your sketchbook consistently. Set goals for yourself, such as completing a certain number of pages or exploring specific themes or techniques, to keep yourself motivated and on track.
Experiment with Different Mediums:
Challenge yourself to experiment with a variety of drawing materials and mediums in your sketchbook. From pencils and pens to markers, charcoal, pastels, and watercolors, each medium offers unique textures, effects, and possibilities for creative expression. Don't be afraid to mix and match mediums or combine techniques to create dynamic and unexpected results.
Explore Different Subjects and Styles:
Explore a diverse range of subjects and styles in your sketchbook to broaden your artistic horizons and push your creative boundaries. Draw from observation, imagination, or memory, and experiment with different genres, themes, and artistic approaches. Whether you're sketching portraits, landscapes, still lives, or abstract compositions, embrace the opportunity to explore new perspectives and techniques with curiosity and openness.
Embrace Mistakes and Imperfections:
View your sketchbook as a safe space for experimentation, exploration, and growth. Embrace mistakes, imperfections, and unexpected outcomes as valuable learning experiences rather than failures. Use them as springboards for new ideas and insights, and don't be afraid to take risks and push yourself outside your comfort zone in pursuit of artistic discovery.
Document Your Progress and Evolution:
Use your sketchbook as a visual journal to document your artistic journey and evolution over time. Date your entries, jot down notes, observations, and reflections, and take photos or scans of your favorite pages to track your progress and growth as an artist. Celebrate milestones, breakthroughs, and moments of inspiration, and use them as fuel to propel you forward on your creative path.
Share Your Sketchbook Adventures:
Don't keep your sketchbook adventures to yourself—share them with others! Whether online or in person, share your sketches, doodles, and experiments with friends, family, and fellow artists. Join online communities, art forums, or social media platforms dedicated to sketchbook sharing and connect with like-minded creatives who share your passion for drawing and creativity.
Conclusion:
Your sketchbook is more than just a collection of drawings—it's a personal playground, a creative sanctuary, and a journey of self-discovery. By filling your sketchbook with curiosity, experimentation, and imagination, you'll not only hone your drawing skills but also cultivate a deeper connection to your creativity and the world around you. So grab your sketchbook, unleash your imagination, and let the creative adventures begin!
Stay tuned for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration to fuel your sketchbook adventures. Until next time, keep sketching, keep exploring, and keep filling your sketchbook with endless possibilities!
I hope that you feel inspired to make a drawing. If you need help with how to draw, I have many courses to help you get started and in my creative community we draw and paint together on zoom at least 4X a month.
Drawing is a skill that everyone can learn and keeping a sketchbook is a wonderful way to kickstart your drawing practice!
I am looking forward to seeing your creations!
Irene