HOW TO SKETCH | Tips and Tricks | Draw like a Sir
Hello, everyone. Today, we're going to delve into the art of drawing like a true professional, or should I say, sketching like a Sir. In this Article, we'll be focusing on the fascinating world of sketching using nothing more than a simple pencil.
Selecting the Right Tools
Choosing the right tools is essential, but often, beginners fixate too much on this aspect. Questions like 'What pencil brand should I use?' and 'Do I need a mechanical or traditional pencil?' tend to cloud the creative process. In reality, it's not about the brand, but how you use the tools. Take Yusuke Murata, for instance, the illustrator of One Punch Man; he wields a humble pen nib on a stick that looks like it was crafted by a child. Yet, it's the artist, not the tools, that truly matters.
Understanding Pencil Hardness
While the type of pencil you choose largely depends on personal preference, I find soft pencils most enjoyable to work with. You might wonder about the difference between H and B pencils. Here's a simple rule: H stands for hard, and B stands for...well, soft. I'd recommend not going too soft (no softer than B) because softer pencils produce darker, less erasable strokes. On the other hand, H pencils are light and easy to erase but may scratch your paper if they're too hard.
Overcoming Sketching Anxiety
Let's shift our focus to a common issue that affects artists at all skill levels. Many budding artists worry about making mistakes when they begin. The fear of wasting paper or ink can be paralyzing. The truth is, it's not about the supplies; it's about you. Sketching should be enjoyable, not a pressure-cooker situation. Try not to worry about making everything perfect from the start. Using inexpensive paper for initial sketches helps to alleviate this pressure. You can always transfer your favorite sketches to high-quality paper if you wish.
The Role of Sketchbooks
Sketchbooks are popular choices for artists, but they can create a mental block. Many think, 'I hope this looks good; it's going to stay in my sketchbook forever.' However, if this isn't a concern for you, sketchbooks are a great option. Consider buying one with a ring binding so you can remove pages if they don't meet your expectations.
Developing Your Sketching Skills
When it comes to the act of sketching, many people tend to copy drawings one by one. While copying is a valid way to practice, remember not to mimic line by line. You won't develop your skills that way. Instead, focus on using guidelines, and practicing proportions, and don't fret if you need to start over. It's all part of the sketching process. There's no need to strive for perfection on your first attempt. Just focus on the result and enjoy the process.
Loosen Up Your Approach
There's a common misconception that your sketches need to be perfectly clean to look good. Don't be misled by this notion. Guidelines can help you understand proportions, and your art doesn't need to be perfectly polished. Remember, it's your creation, not a graded assignment. What truly matters is your satisfaction and the fun you have while sketching. So, take it easy, be loose, and enjoy the journey.
A Challenging Yet Rewarding Approach
For those seeking rapid improvement, consider this unconventional tip: don't use an eraser. To take it a step further, you can even sketch with a ballpoint pen. This is the epitome of an unforgiving approach but offers unparalleled learning experiences. Professional artists often draw without erasers, so it's worth trying. Plus, it doesn't cost you anything. Give it a shot.
Conclusion and Call to Action
That wraps up our exploration of sketching. I hope you've picked up some valuable insights. In summary, this article offers valuable insights and tips for both beginner and experienced artists. Sketching, particularly with simple tools like pencils, can be a highly enjoyable and expressive form of art. He discusses the choice of materials, such as pencils and erasers, dispelling myths about the need for expensive art supplies and highlighting the importance of the artist's skill over the tools.
Practical advice on pencil hardness, encourages experimentation, and dispels misconceptions about the need for perfection in sketching. He stresses that the process should be enjoyable and not constrained by the fear of wasting materials. Drawing on affordable paper is one of his key recommendations, as it allows artists to learn and experiment freely without fear of mistakes.
The tutorial also touches on sketchbooks, their benefits, and the importance of keeping a loose, relaxed grip while sketching.