#047 Line Drawing | Hand Movements
DRAWING REFERENCE: backpack or other simple bag shape
YOU'LL NEED: drawing paper 9x12 inches or copy paper, pencil, eraser, a backpack or bag
Hi and Welcome!
Welcome to Lesson 2 in our line drawing series!
In the last lesson, you learned about moving your hand across the paper and making your first line drawing. Today, you'll practice those skills again while drawing a different type of bag.
Every artist starts by learning to see and draw simple shapes. As you work through these lessons, you'll become more confident with your pencil and learn how to draw what you see.
You may feel a little awkward at first, and that's completely normal. Every new skill takes practice. The more you draw, the easier it becomes!
Your Goals for This Lesson
1. Look for the Edges
Carefully observe your bag and notice where the outside edges are. Draw lines where you see those edges.
2. Start with Big Shapes
Don't worry about tiny details right away. Artists begin with the largest shapes first and add smaller details later.
3. Draw Bigger
Use large hand movements so your drawing fills most of the page. It's okay to leave a small border of blank paper around the edges, but try not to draw a tiny bag in the middle of a large sheet of paper.
What You'll Discover
1. Why Pencil Grip Matters
Holding your pencil comfortably can help you make smoother, more confident lines.
2. How to Draw Different Types of Lines
You'll practice drawing:
- Curved lines
- Horizontal (side-to-side) lines
- Vertical (up-and-down) lines
3. How Artists Build Drawings
You'll learn to look at the biggest shapes first and then gradually add smaller shapes and details.
Why This Matters
These drawing skills help artists create larger, stronger drawings that fill the page. Most importantly, you'll learn how to move your hand with confidence and draw what you see.
Enjoy this short 5-minute lesson and create a drawing! If you'd rather not draw your own bag, you can use the bag shown in the lesson video as your reference.
Keep practicing, have fun, and remember: every great artist started with simple lines!
Happy Drawing!
— Brenda Ellis Abbey
If you want more great drawing, painting, and sculpture lessons, check out our art books for Preschool through High School ages.
