3 Quick Ways to Start a New Sketchbook
Hi there. How are you?
It can be intimidating to start a new sketchbook, with all of those blank pages and so many possibilities. For many, getting started is the hardest part. In this post, I’ll share some fun and easy techniques I use to quickly start a new sketchbook without overwhelm.
Instead of just posting photos as I usually do, I thought it would be helpful to create a video tutorial along with my static post. If you’d rather read, keep scrolling.
Watch the video tutorial!
1) Start with a Scribble
This is my go to technique for prepping sketchbook pages. Grab a ballpoint pen, and scribble across the page. Use a light color if you’d like to hide your scribble later. Don’t overthink, just move your hand around the page, breaking up the space into smaller sections. Play with organic and/or geometric shapes, or even something recognizable.
2) Use Marker
Markers or highlighters are a great way to quickly create a backdrop for a ballpoint drawing. Make fields of color or scribble like to you did with the pen. If you intend to draw on top of the marker with ballpoint pens, it’s best to use lighter colored markers so that the pen drawing can be seen.
3) Use Washable Markers as Watercolors
Fun fact: washable markers are water soluble. Simply “paint” water onto your marker drawing and watch the pigment bloom and bleed. Once the paper is thoroughly draw, you can draw right on top with a ballpoint pen.
This technique works best on a thick paper that’s made for painting. Thin drawing paper will curl and warp, making it hard to draw on. Make sure you’ve got washable markers, or the pigment won’t bleed when water is added.
That’s all for now.
I hope you found this inspiring. If you liked this post, you’re going to love my e-courses and my forthcoming book! “Me & My Ballpoint Pen” will be published in May of 2025. Do join my mailing list to be first to know when it’s available.
