How to Start a new Sketchbook
Are you ready to start a new sketchbook but not quite sure how to begin?
Well, you've come to the right place!
From the size of the sketchbook to a defined theme to your favorite medium, today I'll show you a few ways to start with ease.
And here are our 3 prerequisites:
Keep it simple.
Have fun.
Just do it.
Let's get started.
The Size has an Impact
Especially if it's your first sketchbook, or if you tend to overthink the contents of your sketchbook, start small.
Literally.
Grab a small sketchbook, like the Hahnemühle ZigZag.
It's just a few pages, it's compact, quick to fill, and the accordion fold adds a playful touch. (No advertising, I just happen to like it myself.)
You can also find an article from me in the blog with more sketchbook recommendations.
Intention/Theme of the Sketchbook
Admittedly, setting an intention or theme for your sketchbook beforehand is a double-edged sword.
It helps you stay on track without having to rethink what to draw every time.
On the other hand, it can also prevent you from painting something you're currently in the mood for, but isn't the theme of the sketchbook.
For Example:
The theme of your sketchbook is edible wild plants. The phenomenal rhododendron blossom clearly doesn't belong here.
Question: What do you do?
A. You ditch the theme of your sketchbook altogether.
B. You don't paint the blossom because it doesn't fit the theme.
Both answers are not the “yellow of the egg” (german expression when there´s no good choice available).
But back on track.
I'll tell you what's more important than the theme of your sketchbook: That you enjoy painting and actually do it.
So why did I even start with setting a theme, you ask?
Because a small thematic sketchbook is indeed really nice!
It's clear what should go in it, it fills up quickly, and you have a quick sense of accomplishment.
Watercolor, Colored Pencils, or Fineliner instead?
After the "theme" theme comes the "medium" theme and it's similar.
Don't get caught up in which medium you want to use in this particular sketchbook.
Trust me, been there, done that...
Allow yourself to use the medium that's available to you right now or that you currently prefer.
What's the point of setting yourself the rule that you'll only use watercolor in this sketchbook when you often only have 15 minutes and a nice motif, as well as a few pens, would be right at hand?
As I said, I've done exactly that.
Do it better and just use what you have on hand.
You'll see how proud and fulfilled you'll be to have painted.
Have Fun!
Why should you only use the sketchbook for sketching?
Because the name says so? Admittedly, that would make sense...
But here it's not about sense, it's about having fun.
Imagine yourself sitting in a café in Lisbon and you're painting their oleander. You could enhance your memory of that trip by just gluing the tram ticket next to your botanical depiction.
Obviously, you're not in Lisbon right now (or are you?).
I strongly assume that you still know what I'm getting at: Paint what you like.
Glue stuff in (plant parts, photos, tickets).
Take notes (weather, mood, observations).
Freely following the motto: Explore and enjoy.
More Room for Exploration
What else comes to mind... (Imagine an emoji that´s thinking)
Combine your botanical sketches with poems, rhymes, or song lyrics.
Add some handlettering.
Use your sketchbook as a journal and record your thoughts.
As they say, the sky is the limit.
Summary
In a world full of possibilities, starting a sketchbook can be a real challenge, but it doesn't have to be complicated.
Remember:
Keep it simple.
Have fun.
Just do it.
So, grab your sketchbook and let your creativity run wild!
Because at the end of the day, whether you're capturing wildflowers or an oleander in Lisbon - Your sketchbook is your personal space to practice, experiment, and above all, have fun.
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