Beginning in Art: How to Draw



Do you feel like you are an artist deep inside? Do you doodle and sketch all the time? Did you love art class in school? If so, you may have a gift for art. If you haven’t had any formal art education, you haven’t practiced much, or you just want to learn how to draw, there are several ways to do it. Learning how to draw means different things to different people. One person might want to become a cartoonist while another enjoys pen and ink, realistic pieces. If you need to do a project for school that requires some sketching you need to learn how to draw. You can learn to draw no matter what, but if you want to be great, you have to have the talent and put in the work.

The Right Tools

Before you get started learning how to draw, you need the right tools and supplies. As a beginner, you don’t need to have top quality supplies, especially just for sketching. Get a pad of cheap paper for sketching on. Also, get a nice quality sketchbook. Carry it around wherever you go for sketching new ideas and practicing. I recommend a Moleskine Sketchbook. They are very durable and great for carrying around. Bristol paper is great for higher quality, purposeful drawings.

Pencils are the next important tool you will need. In fact, it is probably the most important. You can use a basic number 2 pencil, but there is only so much you can do with it. A great beginner package is a mix of a variety of pencils. Get a few soft pencils and a few hard pencils. You can choose the type to use depending on what you are doing, shading, sketching, etc. For a longer-lasting drawing, use a sketching pen. They are best for drawings after you have practiced for a while.

Instructions

You can start learning how to draw by just sketching what you see, or you can get a little bit of instruction. A drawing class is a great start. Check out local community colleges for available classes near you. If you can’t afford classes or you can’t make the schedule, books are a great idea. Try The Draw 50 Way which shows you how to draw a wide variety of things, or How to Draw People. Instructional books can show you how to draw cartoons or how to do life-like sketches.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Practicing is one of the best things you will do while learning how to draw. Take your sketchbook around with you and take it out to sketch when you find yourself with free time. Don’t just draw the same thing all the time. Branch out with figure drawing, portraits, and landscapes, even if you’re trying to be a cartoonist. Ask friends for their opinion and use the criticism constructively. Only ask those that you trust and not people who will fail to offer constructive criticism. The more you draw, the better you will be.

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