#049 Line Drawing | Irregular Shapes
DRAWING REFERENCE: Flexible Bag
YOU'LL NEED: copy or drawing paper 9x12 inches, pencil, eraser, a flexible bag of cloth, plastic, or mesh, and fruit or large objects to put into the bag
Hi and Welcome!
Welcome to our final lesson on how to move your hand to create smooth, confident lines. The more you practice, the easier and more natural drawing will feel.
In this lesson, you'll draw a flexible bag. Unlike a rigid bag that keeps its shape, a flexible bag changes shape depending on what is inside it. This makes it a fun challenge and a great way to practice observing shapes and edges.
If you can, find a bag at home and place different objects inside it. Try drawing the bag with blocks, balls, toys, or other items. Every time you change what's inside, the bag will look different, giving you a brand-new drawing challenge!
If you'd rather not draw your own bag, you can use the photo shown in the lesson video.
What You'll Discover
1. Start with the Objects Inside
Before drawing the bag, look at the shapes of the objects inside it. Draw their simple outside edges first.
2. Draw the Shape of the Bag
Next, notice how the bag curves, bends, and stretches around the objects. Draw the edge of the bag as it wraps around those shapes.
3. Add the Folds
Flexible bags often have folds and wrinkles. Draw these folds as simple lines to help show how the bag is bending and changing shape.
Why This Matters
Some objects are simple to draw, while others are more complex. This lesson teaches you a step-by-step way to approach a more challenging subject. By breaking the drawing into smaller parts, you'll learn how artists handle complicated objects with confidence.
You can make many drawings from the same bag by changing:
- The objects inside
- The way the bag sits
- Your viewing angle
Every drawing gives you a chance to practice and improve.
Enjoy this short 5-minute lesson and create a drawing! Look carefully, draw what you see, and have fun exploring all the different shapes your bag can make.
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.
