Jumpstart Your Creativity: 10 Tips to Start Your First Sketchbook
Paintings from my sketchbook.
The best advice I have received as a beginner artist has been to start a sketchbook. When I started my first sketchbook, I had only just started drawing and painting seriously for about three months. I was a newbie and had no idea what I was doing in terms of having any technical skills whatsoever. But I braved the dreaded blank pages of a sketchbook nonetheless, and I am so grateful and happy I did. Today, my advice to you, no matter where you are in your creative journey, is to start a sketchbook yourself!
Now, starting a sketchbook can feel daunting when you first get one and see how many blank pages there are. But trust me, ripping the bandaid off and just starting is the easiest way to get over the initial fear.
Having completed my first sketchbook, I'm eager to share the lessons I've learned along the way. Sharing my first sketchbook feels vulnerable, especially considering my current skill level. But I want you to know that, regardless of where you are in your artistic journey, you too can fill your first sketchbook. It's not just about filling pages; it's about the growth and progress you can achieve. I invite you to take a tour of my first completed sketchbook, a testament to the exciting journey ahead of you.
If you are interested in starting your own sketchbook, I would like to invite you to subscribe to my Poppy Mail Here. In this month’s newsletter, I will recommend some sketchbooks I have used and enjoyed for your reference. A sketchbook can be a wonderful tool, regardless of your medium. I use several different mediums in my sketchbook, including Neocolor II water-soluble crayons. You can see my blog and video post on Neocolor II crayons by clicking here.
Here are some tips to get started:
Set a goal or make a feel-good commitment to yourself
Setting a drawing or painting goal will really help you find consistency in your art practice. Consistency is integral to your growth and progress but will also go a long way in helping you fill out your first sketchbook.
Remember, never beat yourself up for “falling off the wagon” or for art that doesn’t meet your expectations. No matter what, all your art is important and helps you grow. Whether it’s a masterpiece or a blob of mixed-up colors that looks like poop(been there), it all serves a purpose and fills our hearts and souls with something special.
Find an accountability buddy or group
Having someone to share your progress with can be a huge motivator. Plus, it’s fun to have someone to laugh with about those blobs of poop!
This can look like a friend you have now who shares your interest in art. You can also join Facebook groups of other novice and experienced artists. Or you may have an artist you already follow and love; check to see if they have a Patreon or art club you can join.
Start with one sketchbook for everything
First, you don’t need a different sketchbook for every type of art. Once you get into a good routine with one, you can branch out if you want.
Keeping it simple with one sketchbook helps you to stay consistent and makes it easier to complete your first sketchbook.
Find a sketchbook that fits your wants and budget
There are many options, and picking one alone can feel daunting.
If you subscribe to my Poppy Mail, this month’s newsletter will include some options I have tried on my sketchbook journey. You can subscribe here.
Remember, you can start your sketchbook on any page
THERE ARE NO RULES! If starting on the first blank page of the sketchbook feels like too much, pick another random page to start on. This can help take the pressure off, making the first “perfect.” Because, let’s be honest, it doesn’t have to be.
You could even design the inside of the cover to set a creative tone and help overcome that blank page anxiety.
Keep your artwork super simple to begin
For me, this looks like painting some really simple, cute flowers. The key is to start with something that feels easy and enjoyable.
Date each artwork
It’s fun to look back and see how you’ve grown. Plus, when you are on your tenth sketchbook, you will have dates to help keep them chronologically in order.
Remember, it’s all for you
No one ever needs to see your sketchbook if you don’t want them to. It’s a place to make mistakes, try new things, and explore colors or themes. Allow yourself to let loose and experiment in the safe and fu’s safe and fun space.
Watch your skills and ideas grow over time
There have been a few times when I look back into my sketchbook and want to try the same painting or drawing over again to see if I can improve it. Doing this is great for building better skills and muscle memory.
Don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments
Always celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. I have literally impressed myself and was thrilled when I painted a rock in a way that appealed to me, lol!
When you have these celebratory moments, I am always happy to be someone you share them with. And let me know when you are celebrating completing your first sketchbook!
