Beginner’s Guide to Drawing and Sketching: How to Get Started

Back to blog

Sketching is a quick and rough way of drawing. It helps you put ideas on paper without worrying about perfect details.

Drawing is a more detailed and finished version of a sketch. It includes shading, textures, and depth to make the artwork look more complete.

  • Relaxing & Therapeutic – A great way to unwind and express yourself.
  • No Expensive Materials Needed – Just a pencil and paper to get started.
  • Builds Confidence in Art – The more you draw, the better you get!

There’s no right or wrong way to draw—just start!

You don’t need fancy equipment to start drawing! Here are
the basic tools:

  • Pencils Set – A simple HB pencil is great for general drawing. Try different grades like 2B, 4B, and 6B for softer, darker lines.
  • Sketchbook – A sturdy sketchbook helps keep your drawings in one place.
  • Erasers – Use a kneaded eraser for soft corrections and a regular eraser for sharper clean-ups.
  • Ruler (Optional) – Helps with perspective and straight lines.
  • H Pencils (Hard) are good for lighter lines - great for sketches.

  • B Pencils (Black) are good for softer, darker lines – great for shading and expressive strokes.

1. Hatching – Creating depth and texture using lines.

  • Vertical Hatching: Draw parallel lines from top to bottom
  • Horizontal Hatching: Draw parallel lines from side to side
  • Inclined Hatching: Place parallel lines at a diagonal angle from one corner to another.
  • Cross-Hatching: Overlapping lines for shading.

2. Contour Lines – Follow the shape of an object.

3. Dotted Lines & Dots – Use small dots to add texture.

  1. Interwoven Textures – Great for drawing woven fabrics.
  2. Basketweave Patterns – Helps create depth and texture.
  3. Blending & Smudging – Use your finger or a Q-Tip for soft shading.

If you’re unsure what to draw, start with simple shapes and objects:

  • Basic Shapes – Practice circles, squares, and triangles to improve control.
  • Everyday Objects – Sketch fruits, cups, or books to practice drawing from real life objects.
  • Nature - Leaves, flowers, or trees are great for organic shapes.

Handy Hint: Keep your lines light and loose - you can refine them later!

Sketching and drawing are fun, stress-free, and a great creative outlet! The more you practice, the more your confidence grows.

Pick up a pencil and start your sketching journey today!