Practice Sketching With A Marker

 This entry was originally posted on Monday, May 14, 2012

I discovered long ago that when I sketch with a pencil in my sketchbook, I want to erase.

And erase some more.

I probably spend more time erasing than sketching.

Then nothing gets drawn.

Does that sound familiar?

 

If you are someone that spends all your time sketching with your eraser more than your pencil,

try sketching with a marker or a pen instead.

 

The temptation to erase is no longer there.

You are forced to commit to a line.

This commitment can be such freedom.

 

The more you commit, the better you will get.

I saw a huge improvement in my drawing skills when I gave up the pencil.

I'm sure you will also.

 

But please keep the marker to the sketchbook and don't use it on your watercolor paper!

(My mother would also recommend that you not use it on your sheets, walls, or stuffed animals like I did when I was younger)

Carry A Sketchbook

   This entry was originally posted on Saturday, May 12, 2012

Carry a sketchbook wherever you go.

Or a tablet if you have one.

You can sketch at games, in church, sitting in an airport, sitting on the bus, or just waiting for time to pass.

It can be a quick sketch or something more detailed.

It is all about eye-hand coordination so it doesn't matter how long you spend on it or if the sketch is completed.

All that matters is that you practiced.

Sketch It!

  This entry was originally posted on Friday, May 11, 2012

Never underestimate the importance of drawing.

Even though I allow my students to trace a photograph, 

I tell them that drawing is an important skill that will improve their paintings.

Take some time to practice your drawing skills by sketching what is around you.

It doesn't need to be seen by anyone but you.

Remember it is the process, not the product that counts.