Back to Back Issues Page
[Drawing] and Blending
May 22, 2015

I hope this email finds you well and happy. Today I'm embracing the benefits of a simple drawing tool, so I hope it inspires you to do some experiments.

Recently, when I was drawing on a blank card for a birthday gift, I chose to illustrate a branch of Cherry Blossoms with a perception of the moon in the background. The perspective was one of looking up at a branch with the sky as the backdrop.

The only problem was, I wasn't very sure on how to achieve the exact effect of the moon that I had in my mind.

I gazed out the window to ponder on it (it's totally true that daydreaming is a great way to solve problems!) and it came to me that a blending stump would give me the perfect look I was aiming for.

See the results here...

I generally don't elaborate too much with my sketchy-type drawings so it's not a habit of mine to rely on any other tools. This episode teaches me that I need to introduce different elements into my practice sessions. Blending can be used as a highlighter, for smoothing out uneven lines or for shadow and I'm sure there's much more to anticipate!

Always be open to trying new things because it's actually by experimenting that you stay intrigued. Not all will be successful but if you keep persisting, magic does happen.

Images highlighted with just a touch of blending open yet another door to achieving new looks to your drawings. Read more...

What's New

"Drawing Lessons For Hobby Artists" is my latest paperback book using my Author name, Kate Berry. It's actually the combination of 4 Kindle books and perfect for anyone who just wants to get an image onto paper.

Here's what Kelly (from USA) had to say about the book...

"You tell things so simply and make people feel safe and comfortable and you make drawing fun! And then your call to discipline and practice is through inspiration. You're focused, organized and very thorough with such a light, happy touch throughout. Your book pulled me exactly the right way and now I'm drawing and I am so happy."

Thank you, Kelly, it truly makes my day to learn one more person has the hobby of drawing to keep them company.

Drawing Tip of the Month

Don't wait for inspiration to "come to you" because it just doesn't happen that way.

The only way to become inspired is to make a move and do something (like browse through art books or just start scribbling). That's how change happens - in a tiny moment, with a single thought which ultimately produces the first action. In the end, it's all up to you.

Handy Links

Find some good online drawing books that I bought to help me learn, practice and improve. They all have a money-back guarantee which is fantastic because you may not necessarily like the same books as me.

If you have any drawing questions, please visit the frequently asked questions page to find the answers.

Drawing is a very economical hobby - see the few basic supplies needed to get started.

Are we connected on Facebook yet? Please join me, I'd love your company!

, thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to read this issue. I totally appreciate your support and companionship.

Kerry Sig
How To Sketch book
Kindle books


Back to Back Issues Page