If you’ve been hanging out with me for a while, you probably know my top sketchbook tip: don’t use a pencil.
Starting with pencil has never worked for me. It’s way too easy to get trapped in an endless loop of erasing, re-drawing, and obsessing over “mistakes.” Before you know it, you’ve rubbed a hole in your paper, second-guessed every mark, and drained every last bit of joy out of the process.
This week, we are doing a truly sketchy sketch, embracing the search for the lines we like. We’re laying them down in ink and letting those early marks stay visible, building up a lively textured drawing on our page.
No need to set up a fancy still life or search for the "perfect" subject. Just pull out your pen and draw whatever’s on the table in front of you while you enjoy your favorite beverage or snack.
I started mine while sitting at a local taco spot waiting for our food. In my first quick rendition, the top-down perspective angle on the cold brew can wasn’t quite how I wanted it. Instead of starting over:
I kept searching. I just kept adding lines, one right next to another, until I found the curves and angles I was looking for.
I anchored the best marks. Once the structure was there, I grabbed darker markers to emphasize my favorite lines and bring out the main shapes.
I left the history on the page. You can still see all those early “searching” lines underneath the washes of color. Leaving them there adds movement, character, and life!
Thanks for reading Fun Drawing Club! Subscribe for free to receive new drawing prompts every Sunday and start filling your sketchbook.
Grab your current drink or snack: Coffee, a water glass, a plate of food, whatever.
Commit to pen or marker: Hide your pencils so you aren’t tempted to erase.
Search out loud: Build your form with loose lines. If a line misses the mark, just draw the next one where it needs to go. Repeat as necessary.
Highlight the winners: Go over your favorite lines with a darker tool or a splash of bolder color, and leave the rest of ‘em as is to add energy to the background.
Embrace the messy middle and enjoy the process!
And then drop your drawing over in our free Skool community in the Prompts & Shares tab, so we can all see your beautifully layered lines!
Keep it sketchy,
Beth
Loving these quick weekly prompts but ready to take your skills to the next level? Consider stepping inside our premium tier on Skool, The Sketch Society.
As a paid member, you’ll get instant access to:
Our ever-expanding vault of Deep Dive mini masterclasses.
Structured & supportive feedback in our private Critique Corner.
Monthly Live Calls where we all hang out and draw together in real time.
👉 [Click Here to Learn More and Join The Sketch Society Today!]
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.