Sketchbook Tour: Recent drawings! ✍️ ✨

Love seeing my recent drawings? I get so many questions about how I keep my sketchbook full and vibrant, so I wanted to share a few more tips on how to get that 'chunky,' well-loved look and find endless drawing ideas! For me, a sketchbook isn't just a place for finished pieces; it's a playground for experiments, quick sketches, and trying out new color combinations without pressure. If you're ever stuck for inspiration, think about the everyday objects around you. My 'Fruit Plate' drawing started simply by looking at my breakfast! Don't be afraid to draw what you see – like the 'NYC Brownstone' I captured, or even those 'Blue Palms' from a vacation dream. Food art is always a fun one; from a 'Dirty Martini' to a simple coffee cup, the possibilities are endless. And don't forget nature! 'Lily Pad Pond' and 'Blue Flowers' are perfect examples of how you can find so much beauty and color in your garden or a local park. The key is to look for interesting shapes and, especially, vibrant colors. Using my POSCA markers alongside my trusty Pilot Precise V5 pen has completely transformed how colorful my drawings have become. Want to make your sketchbook feel 'chunky' and bursting with creativity, like those Pinterest-worthy ones? It's all about consistency and letting go of perfection. Don't leave empty pages! Even a quick doodle, a color swatch, or a practice stroke with your Sharpie markers can fill a space. I often layer colors and even try mixed media. For example, sketching with a fine-liner like the Pilot Precise V5 and then adding bold pops of color with POSCA markers. Don't be afraid to draw on both sides of the paper, or even glue in little bits of ephemera if you're feeling adventurous. The more you use it, the more character it gains. Sometimes, the biggest hurdle is just starting. Here’s a little trick: pick a color scheme first! Say, all blues and greens, or warm yellows and oranges. Then, try to draw anything you see within that color palette. This is how I ended up with my 'Blue Flowers' drawing, just exploring different shades. Or, challenge yourself to draw the same object multiple times in different styles or color schemes. It's amazing how a simple object like a 'Fruit Plate' can look completely different with a new set of colors. Remember, your sketchbook is for *you*. It's where you develop your style and have fun. So grab your Canson or Strathmore sketchbook, your favorite pens and markers, and just start making marks!