Daily Sketchbook Practice, Part 2: From Blank Page to Bold Art

Staring at a blank page can feel overwhelming, but the key to overcoming that blank-page anxiety is simple: start somewhere. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just getting started, sketchbook practice is a powerful tool to nurture your creativity. In Part 2 of this series, I’m going to walk you through some easy steps to fill that page with art – no experience necessary!

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out Daily Sketchbook Practice, Part 1: Gathering Supplies before diving into this post. It’s a great starting point to ensure you have everything you need for your sketchbook journey.

Step 1: Draw a ¼ inch border

Start by drawing a ¼ inch pencil border around your page using a ruler. This simple frame helps focus your composition and adds structure, whether you’re working on a full-page spread or a half-page design.

Step 2: Draw Shapes

Next, sketch a variety of loose shapes in pencil. Don’t worry about perfection—this step is all about experimenting with form. Whether you use geometric shapes, organic shapes, or a mix of both, let your creativity flow.

Step 3: Select a Color Palette

Choose 3-4 colors for your palette. This limited selection will help keep your design cohesive and visually appealing. I recommend choosing colors that contrast nicely with each other, and a neutral or light color for the background.

Step 4: Paint the Shapes

Time to add some color! Fill each shape with your selected colors, starting with a light wash. I like to use a round brush for this step, applying a diluted wash first, then layering on a second pass once the paint dries for depth.

Step 5: Paint the Background

When painting the background, use a smaller brush if your shapes are close together. You can either leave a small border of white paper around the shapes, or paint right up to the edges—whichever style you prefer.

Step 6: Embellish with Gel Pens

Once your shapes and background are dry, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Use a white and/or gold gel pen to doodle designs or patterns on your shapes. This is where my South Asian heritage truly shines through—I love adding henna-inspired motifs to my designs. These intricate, flowing patterns not only reflect my cultural roots but also bring a unique touch to the artwork.

Optional: Use a Stencil

If freehand drawing isn't your thing, stencils can be a fantastic tool to create uniform, polished shapes. Simply place your stencil on the page, lightly trace it with a mechanical pencil, and follow the same steps for painting and embellishment.

Final Thoughts

Remember, this daily practice is all about exploration—don’t overthink it! Whether you’re creating simple shapes or intricate designs, consistency is key. Try to set aside 20-30 minutes each day for sketchbook time, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The more you draw, the more your personal style will emerge. I’d love to see how your pages turn out, so share your progress with me on Instagram: @DivineNY.