Drawing Sketch Pads


One of the best ways to progress quickly as an artist is to carry around a small sketch pad. Although they are sold in many sizes, 8.5 x 11 is advisable so that you do not limit the size of your subjects considerably. Opt for a hard covered sketch book to protect your drawings. The cover also comes in handy as a surface to be drawn on in any environment. Ensure that the paper is acid free or your drawings will turn yellow and deteriorate faster.

With a sketch book on hand, you will find there are an abundance of opportunities to pull it out and simply draw what you see. Make quick sketches while you are waiting for your food to arrive, while sitting on the bus or in line at the bank. Draw things you see out your window or in your house. Subjects are endless and the more you bang out quick sketches, the easier it will become to see inherent shapes in objects and reproduce them. Sketchbooks are a great place to develop your powers of observation and drawing skills. Sketchbooks can also be used for noting your impressions and ideas for future compositions. Don't be discouraged by strangers who may glance over in curiosity. In all likelihood, they are not looking for a finished masterpiece but are more interested rather in the work in progress. Many people have no understanding of how sketches and other art forms come to be and are intrigued by the act of creating something from inspiration.

Other pages of interest

Introduction to drawing
Finding inspiration for drawing
Creating your drawing workspace
Drawing tools: Pencils
Drawing tools: Sketch pads