4 Ways to Sketch, Part IV (Shapes)

On Instagram, I showed a sketch I had done of the same flower using four different techniques. I thought it would be helpful to dive into the types of sketching since each technique is used to hone in on different illustration skillz.

The last type of sketching is using basic shapes. This is the method I use to make my most realistic-looking pieces and allows for a little more evolution and correction than the other highlighted sketching techniques. Feel free to join in while we explore this type of sketching a little more:

First, you'll want to identify the main shapes that make up your subject. Imagine the subject as a bunch of geometric shapes with a sheet laid over them. Imagine the framework underneath the surface. Look for protrusions and curves, angles, and general shapes and lightly indicate them on your paper with a light touch:

Once you've identified the main shapes, connect them and go over them again, paying closer attention to detail with each pass. Draw over each line, still with a light touch, but correct shapes and angles you may have gotten wrong the first time around:

Repeat as many times as necessary, always refining the details and shapes you've already established. Keep a light touch the entire time, since the repetitions of your lines and shapes will naturally darken the lines and redefine the shapes. Continue until your corrected shape matches the subject. Notice and add in smaller details and shapes:

This type of exercise is ideal for learning how to notice the underlying skeletal structure of a subject. Knowing how to show that helps give your subject weight and volume. It is also a great platform to use if you're ready to start adding different values (tints and shadows) to your artwork.

This four-part series highlighted 4 of my go-to sketching methods and the illustration skillz they help develop. Did you find these how-tos helpful? If so, I'd love to know! Is there another sketching method you'd like to see? I'd love to hear what you think.