Learn How To Draw

Special occasions like birthdays and graduations are times that are meant to be remembered. Chronicling a special event or milestone can be one of the best gifts that you can give to a person. What better way to signify the event than with a drawing? Perhaps a sketch book of guests, or a special portrait of the person being honored would be a great gift idea. However, to do this, you will first need to learn how to draw. Yes, you can learn how to draw!

Not only does learning how to draw come in handy for personalized gifts, but it also enriches your mind and spirit. If you can draw simple sketches, you be able to capture moments that are special to you. For example, as you watch your little girl picking flowers, you can whip out your sketch book and make the basic shape of the scene.  If you know the fundamentals, you can later add in the details, like the shading and highlights of the sun hitting her hair. If you learn how to draw, you might even open the door to an artistic future. When learning how to draw, there are certain basic rules that you must learn. Then you can choose one of many drawing techniques best suited to your personal style.

Now that you have decided to learn how to draw, you'll need the proper equipment. When you're just beginning, its best to use inexpensive materials, and equipment that is easiest to use.  Pencil is the medium of choice for the beginning artist, because mistakes can easily be erased, and lead is not costly. A plain number two pencil will accommodate your needs, while a mechanical pencil will provide a constant stream of even lines, and never requires sharpening. If you do choose a traditional pencil, make sure that you also get a quality pencil sharpener.
  
Now it's time for one of the most enjoyable of the steps one goes through when they learn how to draw. Putting pencil to paper is the beginning of a massive accomplishment. Choose a comfortable place in which to draw. Some people like to sit bolt-upright at a table, while others find a comfy chair or bed more to their liking. Wherever you park yourself, you must be sure to have a flat, level surface to work on. This may seem obvious, but is actually overlooked much too often. 

Now you must learn the basic shape of your subject. If working on animals, first assess the skeletal structure. Try to draw a properly proportioned and slightly detailed stick figure. After this, add the volume of flesh needed.  Once you have this outline, add the details like eyes, noses and ears. For the final stage, shade the entire subject appropriately.

With these few simple tips, you will learn how to draw with ease. Books are readily available to give you an in depth discussion on the the subjects discussed here.