If you’re looking to improve your drawing skills, you’re in the right place. In this quick tutorial, Jess dives into three game-changing tips to dramatically improve your art forever! These drawing techniques can take your art to the next level, and once you understand and apply them, you’ll start seeing noticeable improvements in your work.
1. Use Basic Shapes First
Every complex object you draw can be broken down into simple shapes like circles, squares, and triangles. Start by identifying these shapes in the subject you’re drawing. For instance, when sketching a hand, look at how each finger can be simplified into cylinders or rectangles. This technique not only makes the drawing process more manageable but also helps ensure that your proportions are more accurate from the beginning.
2. Use Similar Measurements for Accuracy
A key element in drawing realistically is maintaining consistent proportions. This tip is about visually measuring one part of your drawing and using it as a guide for the rest. For example, if you’re drawing a hand, you might notice that the length of the palm is similar to the length of the fingers. By using one part of the subject as a reference for others, you’ll create a more cohesive and accurate drawing.
3. Pay Attention to Negative Shapes
One of the most overlooked aspects of drawing is the use of negative shapes — the spaces around and between objects. By focusing on these spaces, you can better judge the proportions and angles of your subject. Negative shapes can serve as a visual anchor, helping you refine your drawing’s structure and preventing errors.
Take Action
These three tips — using basic shapes, focusing on measurements, and paying attention to negative shapes — are simple yet powerful. The next time you start a drawing, incorporate them into your process. You’ll notice an immediate improvement in how you approach and understand your subject. Our students use these drawing techniques with great success, and we encourage you to try them out.