This week you will learn to fold a pocket sketchbook from a single sheet of paper. Then you will choose a theme and follow it to fill your little book with drawings.
Part 1: the sketchbook Take a sheet of computer printer paper (or almost any other kind of paper). You can use scrap paper as long as it’s rectangular and one side is empty. Watch the video to learn the folding technique or study the directions below.
Determined to share the idea of the sketchbook back in 2011, I figured out how to proceed alone (with just a computer) to make a video. I had to get it all in one take as I didn’t know how to edit.
Between takes, I would be in that imaginary Parisian cafe shown in the video. The wine wasn’t imaginary.
It is my hope that you will overcome any fear or reluctance that you are experiencing about drawing and painting…or any kind of creating. I know that exposed feeling. But do watch out for the imaginary cafes!
Part 2: The Theme Potential themes are unlimited. I chose “Barn Portraits” using barns I see on walks from the house — staying local and isolated. You can sit in your car to draw while you park in different spots, find things around the house, work from imagination, or use photos on your computer.
What interests you for a theme? Let different ideas come to you as you look around. In spite of how many times you see something, you always notice more when you begin to draw! My decision to do neighborhood barn portraits surprised me, and I’m so curious about what you choose to draw. Use any media that you like.
Click to enlarge. This is my sketchbook unfolded. If you would like to make the “Barn Walk” booklet, print this out, trim the edges of your print to the image size, and practice the folding method.
Eight panels 2.75″ x 4.25″ each. pencil and watercolor
Don’t judge your drawings, just do them with full concentration. Let me know what your questions are so that I can address them here.
I have not tackled the folding sketchbook process yet, but I love the idea of drawing a theme. Thanks so much for your inspirational lessons!
Janette, the pocket sketchbook isn’t necessary to do the Theme, but make one anyhow because I think you’ll like knowing how to do it and on some occasions it can be really handy. Lillian
Bravo! It does take some getting used to with the process. Enjoy filling it!
Whew! I did make the pocket sketchbook. First I cut on the wrong fold. Then I watched again and cut in the right place but could not figure out the push out part! Aha, on the third try I realized I should turn it inside out and voila, I have a sketchbook. Now the easy part, to fill it with sketches! 🙂
I still have my first pocket sketchbook and a couple more!
This is delightful to do again and again and again
makes me feel very accomplished when its filled NO PRESSURE!
mybffb
Yes… and having it only partly filled provides a little nudge to keep working! Lillian
Your sketchbook is perfect and your video comment (and content) is wonderful too!