The Artist's First Steps

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...

DRAWING REFERENCE: gift bag 

YOU'LL NEED: drawing paper 9x12 or copy paper, pencil, eraser, paper bag and bow 

Hi and Welcome!

This lesson is the beginning of a fun drawing journey for kids, teens, and anyone who wants to learn how to draw. Every great drawing, painting, or artwork starts with simple lines. Learning how to draw those first lines is one of the most important skills an artist can have.

In this lesson, you'll learn how artists look carefully at an object and draw what they see. You'll use a real gift bag as your drawing reference and practice creating a line drawing step by step.

Don't worry about making it perfect. The goal is to observe, practice, and have fun!

What You'll Discover

1. The Edge Is Where We Start

Artists often begin by looking at the outside edge, or outline, of an object. The edge helps us understand the shape we are drawing.

2. Why Staying in One Spot Helps

When drawing from a real object, it's important to stay in the same position. If you mo...