Using the right tools

I just wanted to take a minute to talk about the common tools I use for my drawings. These tools include a pencil, ruler, eraser, compass, protractor and some pens and markers of your choice.

First and foremost, I choose the right paper for what I’m trying to create. The different paper is a variety from regular printer paper to heavy quality sketch paper. Then I choose the size of the art piece. These usually range from 3.5″×3.5″ zentangle art to as large as 11×17 at the moment. Eventually, I would like to create wall art and even move to a canvas. But for now, I’m going to stuck with the basics.

Secondly, I decide the structure. Should I cover the entire page, run with a theme or just create a mandala in the center? The possibilities are endless. Use your strengths and creativity to go wild.

Choose whether you will leave your art freestyle or structure it with rulers and projectors. I typically use a compass and a 360 projector to create the circles I need for the piece. The projector is very useful when doing mandalas. It allows me to create the exact grid lines I need for every different piece. I then use the ruler to keep my lines tight. You have your own story and direction for your art, so don’t let me define it. These are just the tools I suggest if you would like structure in your art and don’t have a good freehand.

Next, I decide on a writing tool. Either I do the whole thing in pencil or I just do a grid in pencil and define that grid creatively with pen or marker. And lastly, don’t be afraid to add color. I am terrified to add color, I’ll admit it. The problem is that I know that it holds me back sometimes. But after a few adult coloring books and mixing color pallets and I have decided I want to add MORE color. BEWARE!

I would love to know what tools and tricks you use to define your art. Please share in the comments. If you would like me to review a specific thing, please give me as many details about where I can get it and I will do my best. Thank you for reading my very first blog post. Here’s to much more! ❤