Did you always want to learn how to draw? It's fun to create a funny cartoon or make life-like portraits. With simple easy drawing tips, you can draw like a pro.
Drawing Tips
Have a sketchbook beside you at your fingertips for almost every place you go. That way, you can instantly draw what you see.
Don't be too hard on yourself. If you keep glancing at your work continuously, judging it all of the time, you're more apt to give up. Give yourself a chance to improve. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Keep a portfolio of everything you draw. This way you can see how much you improve as time goes on.
Always keep your drawing pencils well sharpened. The draughtsman style pencils don't need to be sharpened as often as the other types, and give a constant balance, however, regular wooden pencils will do. An HB wooden pencil is good to use to draw lightly the outlines of the drawing. By doing it lightly with minimal pressure, it's easier to correct a mistake when you need to. Charcoal and graphite pencils are great for drawing.
Don't rest your hand on the work that you did already, as it can smudge. If you are right-handed begin drawing from the left, and if you are left-handed, start drawing from the right. This way you will be less likely to smudge your drawing. Use a fixative spray when you're finished drawing so that it won't smear.
It's best to use real life when trying to draw, but if you must use photos, never work with low quality photos.
Don't be afraid to go black where it is needed. Many times, artists go up to a shade of dark grey limiting the possible depth. If needed, place a pitch black piece of cardboard beside your drawing paper to see the tone of darkness.
Plan ahead before you draw. It's always better when there is still room for the hands and feet.
Take into consideration the direction of the light. Depending on the light source, shadow shapes and positions may change.
Tissue is great for blending.
Don't draw your models to look like robots. Exaggerate the angles and curves of the drawing so that it will appear more natural, as people have a tendency to strengthen things as they draw.
If you want to highlight a particular area when you're drawing, simply darken the surrounding area of the image or area that you are trying to lighten.
Draw upside down. Don't be afraid to draw upside down sometime, as it gives you the opportunity to see flaws, however, don't make your model stand on his head! Louanne_B
