#058 Placement on the Paper | Simple Finger Method

2026 start drawing! Jul 20, 2026
 

DRAWING REFERENCE: A photograph of a tall animal or object.

YOU'LL NEED: drawing paper 9x12 inches or copy paper, pencil, eraser

Hi and Welcome

Have you ever been drawing something really exciting and suddenly realized there wasn't enough room on the paper to finish it? The next four lessons will offer practical solutions to make sure this type of problem doesn't happen to you. Before you begin drawing, it is important take a few moments to think about how the object will fit into the space of the paper. 

Today You Will

  • Learn why planning your drawing is important.
  • Discover how the direction of your paper can help your drawing fit.
  • Practice using simple marks to create drawing boundaries.

What You'll Discover

How turning the paper and making two quick measurements with your fingers can solve the problem of drawing off the paper's edges. 

Why This Matters

Planning a drawing gives the subject enough room and helps prevent important parts from being cut off. By taking a few moments to plan before drawing, you can create artwork that has all the parts exactly where you want them!

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. 

Go to ARTistic Pursuits website.

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