10 Easy Ways to Sketch Daily and Improve Your Drawing Skills

Published on 18 July 2023 9 min read

Carry a sketchbook everywhere
Set a daily sketch goal
Try different drawing styles
Sketch from life
Focus on one subject at a time
Use reference images
Draw with confidence
Experiment with materials and techniques
Join a sketching group
Reflect on your progress

If you've ever dreamed of turning your doodles into masterpieces, you're in the right place. This blog is your key to sketch daily for improvement. But how do we transform this lofty dream into a bite-sized daily task? It's simpler than you might think! Here are 10 easy ways to sketch daily and improve your drawing skills, without turning your life upside down. Let's jump in!

Carry a sketchbook everywhere

When it comes to sketching daily for improvement, having a sketchbook at your side is a game-changer. Think of your sketchbook as your trusty sidekick — it's there when you need to capture a fleeting idea, or when you have a sudden urge to sketch.

Why it works: Life is full of unexpected moments of inspiration. That intriguing face across the subway or the peculiar shape of a building can be perfect subjects for your sketch. The more you sketch, the better you get. Plus, it's easier to sketch daily when you have your sketchbook with you.

Choose a portable sketchbook: The size and weight of your sketchbook matter. Smaller, lightweight sketchbooks are easier to carry around. Brands like Moleskine and Strathmore offer a variety of portable sketchbooks.
Keep your sketch tools handy: Having a pencil or pen nearby makes it easier to sketch whenever inspiration strikes. Some sketchbooks even come with a built-in pen holder — talk about convenience!
Make it a habit: Make it a point to take your sketchbook with you when you leave the house. Just like your phone or wallet, it should be a staple in your daily life.

Remember, the goal is to sketch daily for improvement. And having a sketchbook on hand can play a big role in achieving that goal. So, start today, make your sketchbook your constant companion, and watch your drawing skills flourish!

Set a daily sketch goal

Setting a daily sketch goal can be a powerful motivator. It's like setting a daily step goal on your fitness tracker — it keeps you accountable and helps you sketch daily for improvement.

Why it works: Sketching daily can seem overwhelming. But when you break it down into a specific, achievable goal, it becomes much more manageable. Plus, achieving your goal each day can give you a sense of accomplishment that fuels your motivation to keep going.

Start small: Your daily sketch goal doesn't have to be grandiose. It could be as simple as sketching one object, person, or scene each day. Or, you could set a time-based goal, like sketching for 15 minutes each day. The key is to set a goal that is achievable and realistic for you.
Track your progress: Keeping track of your daily sketches can help you see your improvement over time. You might use a simple calendar or a sketch tracking app, such as Procreate or SketchBook. Seeing the progress you've made can be a powerful motivator to keep sketching daily.
Be flexible: Remember, your daily sketch goal is a tool to help you sketch daily for improvement, not a strict rule. If you miss a day, don't beat yourself up. Instead, acknowledge the miss, and aim to get back on track the next day.

Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step — or in this case, a single sketch. So, set a daily sketch goal, stick to it, and watch your drawing skills soar!

Try different drawing styles

Taking up the challenge to try different drawing styles can be a thrilling part of your journey to sketch daily for improvement. It's like tasting different cuisines — you never know which one you might fall in love with until you try it!

Why it works: Each drawing style offers unique techniques and approaches, which can help you develop a wide range of skills. Plus, exploring different styles keeps your sketching practice fresh and exciting, making it easier to stick to your daily sketch habit.

Dabble in realism: Realism focuses on capturing the world as it is. This style can help you sharpen your observation skills and gain a deeper understanding of light, shadow, and form.
Experiment with abstraction: Abstract art is all about expressing ideas or emotions rather than depicting realistic subjects. It's a great style to explore if you want to unleash your creativity and think outside the box.
Try your hand at cartooning: Cartoon style is fun and approachable, making it great for beginners. It can also help you develop a knack for exaggeration and simplification, which are handy skills in sketching.

In the end, remember that there's no "right" or "wrong" style. The best style is the one that you enjoy and helps you sketch daily for improvement. So, don't be afraid to try different drawing styles — you might just discover a new favorite!

Sketch from life

How about making life your canvas? Sketching from life has a unique charm—you get to capture things as they exist in their raw, unfiltered state. It's a lot like photography, but with a personal touch.

Why it works: Sketching from life helps you improve your observation skills. It's like a workout for your brain, where you learn to see and understand the world in a whole new way. Plus, it's an excellent way to practice accuracy and attention to detail, which are key skills if you're looking to sketch daily for improvement.

People watching: Sketching people can be fascinating. You can capture their expressions, gestures, or clothing details. You might even try sketching a bustling street scene or a quiet café corner.
Nature's beauty: Nature is a treasure trove of inspiration. From the intricate patterns of leaves to the majestic landscapes, there's so much to sketch.
Everyday objects: Don't overlook the beauty in everyday objects. A cup of coffee, a pair of glasses, or your favorite book can all make great subjects for your sketches.

Remember, the goal is not to create a perfect replica but to understand and capture the essence of the subject. So, grab your sketchbook, head out, and start sketching from life. Your drawing skills will thank you!

Focus on one subject at a time

It can be tempting to sketch everything you see, but there's a lot of value in focusing on one subject at a time. Take it slow; don't rush. This method is beneficial for honing in on your skills and getting a better understanding of specific subjects.

Why it works: By focusing on one subject at a time, you can dive deeper and discover new aspects of the subject you might otherwise overlook. This focused approach allows you to improve your technique and understand the nuances of different subjects. It's an effective way to sketch daily for improvement.

Start small: If you're new to sketching, start with simpler subjects like fruits, flowers, or small household objects. As your confidence grows, gradually move on to more complex subjects.
Study the subject: Before you start sketching, take time to study your subject from different angles. Notice the shadows, the highlights, the texture, and the shape. The more you understand about your subject, the easier it will be to sketch.
Practice makes perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first few attempts don't turn out as expected. Keep practicing. With each sketch, you'll see improvement.

By focusing on one subject at a time, you can make significant strides in your sketching skills. So, pick a subject that fascinates you, and let's get sketching!

Use reference images

Reference images can be a great aid to your sketching journey. They provide a solid starting point and can help you visualize complex shapes and situations. Plus, they're readily available, with the internet brimming full of images you can use.

How it helps: Reference images can offer a visual guide that helps you understand proportions, perspectives, and details better. It's a simple yet effective way to sketch daily for improvement.

Choose wisely: Pick reference images that align with what you're trying to learn. If you're working on portraits, find a face that intrigues you; if it's landscapes, go for a scene that captures your attention.
Don't just copy: The goal isn't to reproduce the reference image exactly. Instead, use it as a guide to understand how things look in real life and translate that onto your sketchbook.
Keep it handy: Have your reference image close by while you're sketching. This way, you can always glance at it whenever you're unsure about something.

So, the next time you sit down to sketch, don't forget to pick a reference image. It could be the key to unlocking your full sketching potential!

Draw with confidence

Confidence plays a pivotal role in any artist's journey, and sketching is no exception. It's not just about the strokes you make on the paper but also the conviction behind those strokes. And remember, confidence isn't something that magically appears — it's something you build over time.

Why it matters: A confident sketch is more likely to capture the essence of the subject. It gives your drawing a sense of purpose and direction, an essential step if you want to sketch daily for improvement.

Start with bold strokes: Bold strokes can give your sketches a strong foundation. They can also help you capture the overall shape of the subject before you start adding details.
Trust your instincts: There's no right or wrong in art. Trust your instincts and let your hand move freely. After all, it's your unique perspective that will make your sketches stand out.
Practice regularly: Confidence comes with familiarity. The more you sketch, the more confident you'll become. So, make it a point to sketch daily.

Remember, confidence is a journey, not a destination. So, keep sketching, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep believing in yourself!

Experiment with materials and techniques

Just like a chef experiments with ingredients, an artist experiments with materials and techniques. Trying different things keeps your work fresh and exciting. Plus, it's a fun way to sketch daily for improvement!

Why it matters: Experimenting can help you discover new styles and techniques that can elevate your sketches. It's all about broadening your artistic horizons and pushing your boundaries.

Materials: Different materials can produce different results. For instance, charcoal can give your sketches a rustic, textured feel, while ink can make them look sharp and defined. Experimenting with different materials like pencils, pens, pastels, and watercolors can help you find what works best for you.
Techniques: There are countless sketching techniques out there. Some artists prefer quick, loose strokes, while others prefer slow, precise lines. Techniques like hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and shading can add depth and dimension to your sketches.

Remember, the goal here isn't to find the 'right' material or technique, but to explore the endless possibilities that sketching offers. So, grab that sketchbook and let's get experimenting!

Join a sketching group

Another great way to sketch daily for improvement is to join a sketching group. Think of it like your local book club, but instead of reading, you're drawing together.

Benefits of a Sketching Group: Sketching groups can provide a supportive environment where you can share your work, receive constructive feedback, and learn from others. It also adds a social aspect to your sketching routine, making it more enjoyable.

Feedback: Sharing your work with others can be a bit scary at first, but it's an invaluable part of the learning process. They may spot things you've missed or suggest ways to improve your sketches you hadn't considered.
Inspiration: Being part of a group exposes you to a variety of styles and techniques. Seeing how others tackle a subject can inspire you and provide fresh ideas for your own sketches.
Accountability: When you join a sketching group, you commit to drawing regularly. This can help you stick to your daily sketching goal and make steady progress.

Whether it's an online community or a local art club, joining a sketching group can be a game-changer. So why not give it a try? You might just find your new sketching family.

Reflect on your progress

It's important to pause and reflect on your journey to sketch daily for improvement. The process of drawing is just as meaningful as the final product, and taking the time to review your sketches can provide valuable insights.

What to Look For in Your Sketches:

Improvement: Look back at your earlier sketches and compare them to your recent work. You'll likely notice that your lines are more defined, your shading is more nuanced, and your overall style has evolved. This visual proof of your progress can be incredibly motivating.
Challenges: Review your sketches to identify areas where you struggled. Did you have difficulty with perspective? Were your proportions off? Recognizing these challenges is the first step to overcoming them.
Favorites: Identify which of your sketches you like best. What do they have in common? Perhaps you have a knack for drawing animals, or maybe your still life sketches really shine. Understanding what you enjoy sketching can help guide your future practice.

Remember, the goal of sketching daily for improvement isn't about creating perfect drawings every time. It's about growing, learning, and enjoying the process. So keep your old sketches, reflect on them regularly, and celebrate your progress. You're doing great, and remember, every sketch brings you one step closer to becoming the artist you aspire to be.

If you're eager to improve your drawing skills and make sketching a daily habit, don't miss the workshop 'Top Tips For Sketchbook Studies' by Rachelle Meyer. This workshop will provide you with practical tips and techniques to make the most of your sketchbook and enhance your artistic abilities.