Drawing and Sketching

When people first pick up a pencil and decide that they want to learn how to draw professional looking portraits and pictures, they often doubt that they will ever be able to draw like the pros. This is because most people label drawing as being a sort of natural talent. However, this could not be further from the truth. Contrary to popular belief, drawing is in fact a skill that can be learned. Of course just like any other skill, drawing takes practice.

When artists begin to draw they follow a step by step process, once these steps are completed they begin to adjust their drawing as needed. Some of the most basic drawing tips when first beginning to draw are sketching and shading. Drawing has literally been broken down into a science. When you learn the basic fundamentals of drawing and the simple techniques artists use to create masterpieces, you will realize that drawing is not as difficult as it may seem.

Sketching

When first learning how to draw you will need to learn how to sketch. Sketching is similar to drawing; however, it is a step in the drawing process that focuses on lightly outlining the image you plan to draw. Sketching is often performed with a very light pencil, which does not damage the paper you are drawing on and allows for erasing of excess marks when you are close to completing your drawing. Usually the harder the lead of the pencil the lighter the pencil will mark. So it is important to know what pencils you will need when beginning to draw.

Shading/Hatching

Another very important basic process when learning how to draw, is shading. Learning how to shade is what allows artists to make their pictures appear lifelike and realistic. Artists refer to shading as adding value. For example for darker areas of an image and artist will apply more shade value, whereas lighter areas will be given lighter shade value. A technique called hatching is the term artists use when adding shade to their pictures. Hatching is done by simply making very thin lines close together in the area you want to provide value to. Cross hatching is done by crossing these lines with one another to adjust the darkness of the area that is being shaded.

Drawing Supplies

To become a great artist you will also need to be aware that there are a variety of different tools artists use when creating pictures, such as different kinds of pencils, erasers, coal sticks, special drawing paper and so on. Be sure you become familiar with these supplies and how they are used when drawing, this will make all the difference in the outcome of your drawing projects. If you think you cannot draw, do not worry, with the proper tools and resources you will be well on your way to creating wonderful pictures in no time.