Hang out with me as I create a spread in my journal.

Notes:

• Your sketchbook is the story of your life.
• As you draw, you meditate on the things that have significance and asssociations
• Think about meaning and feeling as you draw, not just accuracy and technique.
• Background layer: watercolor wash in warm color.
• Overall shape drawn with brush in gouache, cool color.
• Consider composition. Where does the shape sit on the page?
• Your media and colors can reflect your feelings.
• Contour drawing begins with outside shape.
• Measure dimensions.
• Look for landmarks.
• Next fill in the interior shapes.
• Draw shapes, not things. Ignore labels, names, symbols.
• Draw one shape, then the shape next to it.
• Don't fret about perfection. The lines are passing through your own imperfections. That's what makes it art and a reflection of who you are and what you feel.
• Be here now. Be you.
• Use heavier lines to emphasize certain parts.
• Don't overwork.
• White charcoal pencil adds texture and dimension.
• Ink splattered with toothbrush adds texture.
• Write a story to accompany your drawing.
• Make your lettering expressive. A visual element.
• Final look: Does your drawing need a little something extra?

PS.

• The pen I am using in the demo is a Kuretake Fudegokochi Brush Pen - Super Fine. It costs US$3.50 at jetpens.com
• You can read more about my experience with it on my blog.
  
• Only shortcoming: The ink is not waterproof so can’t be watercolored over.
• I have switched to a similar but waterproof pen: The Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen - Hard - Blue Body. It costs US$2.50 at jet pens.com

Discussion: Any thoughts, revelations, disagreements?