Starting a sketchbook can be an intimidating task, especially if you just finished one. A sketchbook symbolizes your growth. It contains the journey of you as an artist and having to start a new one can be daunting, so here are some things you'll need before you start!
1. A sketchbook
Now, this might seem super obvious, but in order to start a new sketchbook, you need to have a sketchbook. And choosing the "right" sketchbook is more difficult than it seems. The tried-and-true sketchbook that I used at 8 years old was a lined notebook that had cartoon ice cream on the front. You don't have to have a fancy, expensive sketchbook in order to create! However, if you want a sketchbook without any lines, I suggest the UCreate sketch book! It's relatively cheap and its spiral bound. It cost $10 and you can buy it on amazon! The only problem I had with this sketchbook is that some of the pages have fallen out, but I'm not surprised considering that I've had it for several years and taken it outside several times. It's a very convenient, on the go sketchbook as it is smaller than most. Here's the link: Amazon.com: UCreate Poly Cover Sketch Book, Heavyweight, 9" x 12", Black, 75 Sheets : Everything Else
2. A pencil
This one is also pretty obvious. You can create art with paints, makers, crayons, etc., but the most useful tool in my personal opinion is a pencil. A good pencil can take you far! I usually like using a mechanical pencil with 0.5 lead. 0.7 mechanical pencils work too, but I like the thinner lead for more detailed work. Pencils can often smudge, so some artists use hairspray to preserve sketches.
3. A black liner
This one is the most optional out of this list, but one of the most useful tools I have used is a black liner. I've used several black liners, but the best ones that I have personally used are micron fine liners. I love the variation of size, as I can get the tiniest details!
4. Time
The most daunting part about starting a new sketchbook is the first page. Usually, I skip the first page completely. The first page is the first thing I see every single time I open up this sketch book, so I procrastinate it. So, my advice is to start by not starting on the first page. I love testing out a new sketchbook and getting used to the pages.
When I'm done experimenting with the paper quality and complete a couple pages, I go back to the first one once I have ample time to create an art piece that I would be proud of. So, if you want to dedicate yourself to starting a new sketchbook, make sure you have a bit of extra time!
Here's what my new sketchbook's first page looks like!
If drawing in a sketchbook is too intimidating for you, I suggest drawing on index cards on sticky notes and then pasting them in later. You don't have to use a sketchbook in order to be an artist. However, if you are considering starting a new sketchbook, but don't know where to start, these tips will hopefully make it a bit easier! Now go on and make some art with heart!
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