Sketchbook page (start to finish)

Step by step process of an analog drawing in my sketchbook

Here’s the finished page / product! Let’s review the steps I took to get here…

I try to draw in my sketchbook everyday, even if it’s just a simple sketch. I prefer to use a 10" x 10" hardcover book (you can use whatever you feel comfortable with!)

I always start with a rough sketch — this should take about a minute to make. The idea here is not to make perfect details, I’m just trying to correct the proportions of my subject. I want to make sure the arms and legs look correct in relation to the helmet, and so on.

I like to use an HB pencil for this (pencil lead is graded on softness — so 4H would be a very light, hard lead, and is often used for things like architectural or drafting projects. 4B would be a soft, darker lead, more commonly used for things like figure drawing.) HB is right in the middle.

Rough sketch — this is just meant to help with placement and proportion. The lines are very light intentionally, I will draw over them. I like to think of this as a guide!

After I’ve completed the initial sketch, I go back and refine the lines and make any adjustments that are necessary:

This looks better! You can see the rough lines of the initial sketch, which I am able to use as a guide for this step.

When I’m pleased with the level of detail and polish on the updated sketch, I ink it. There are a few ink pens I like to use — MUJI 0.38 black ink and Uni Pin are two of my favorites. I typically use a size like 005 or 01 (very small nib) and create the heavier lines by hand, as opposed to using a larger pen.

I’ve traced over the pencil lines with ink, and added line weight around the outside of the drawing.

The last step after inking is to add color. I use a combination of acrylic paint and paint pens for this step:

The finished drawing!

I published a similar article, “Step by Step, Simple Drawing with the Pixelbook” and you may notice that the steps I take to create each drawing, whether analog or digital, are basically the same — only the materials are different.

I’m going to close with the same notes I used in my other drawing article:

1. I (almost) always use a reference. This means that I look at *something* when I’m drawing, I don’t just make things up out of my head. This works better for me, although I know many talented folks who do not use reference. Whatever works for you is the right answer.
2. The best way to start (I think) is to practice re-creating things you like. Try drawing your favorite cartoon character or video game character. Or practice re-drawing this drawing, if you’re so inclined.
3. Be patient as you learn. Whatever your job is, it took you time to acquire the skills to perform it. Drawing is the same way. Please don’t say “I can’t draw”. I don’t play the violin, but if I had a violin and practiced, at some point I would become reasonably proficient. The hardest part is knowing where to start, and hopefully this article can help you!