20th Feb

4 core steps to take

“I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.” Pablo Picasso


Emily’s Notebook started back in 2019, and now, older and wiser, I’ve settled into a daily drawing rhythm that works.

Over the years, I’ve distilled my approach into four core steps that have shaped my sketching practice.

These are…
1) Learn the basic principles of drawing.
2) Build momentum and maintain it (like a spinning top you need that initial push to keep going).
3) Rinse, repeat, and refine, return to the basics but keep it fun with lots of different themes.
4) Join a supportive community to stay accountable and inspired.

In this first post, alongside the teaching I’ve been exploring this past week on composition, I’m sharing my personal sketches from my “sofa stories", where I capture little family moments on the sofa.

These are a perfect example of how these four steps come together: observing, practicing consistently, experimenting with composition, and enjoying the process.

Once these are mastered you can pretty much draw anything anywhere.

I’m also reflecting on our latest Scratch to Sketch hub challenges based on 10 composition layouts and how you can create leverage in your drawing! (I also shared the tree challenge sketchbook we put together.) 
Want to get started with learning with me?

Why not give the Scratch to Sketch hub a monthly trial and see how you can reframe your approach to your drawing practice.
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