Sketch is a rough outline drawing that is not intended as a final work. It is one of the quickest ways to store an inspiration for later use. The original sketches are usually used as a reference to lay out a composition. Sketching helps perk up the artist’s talent in focusing on the most important element of a subject before outlining the complete picture.
The preferred tool frequently used by the artists is pencil and pastel. A medium weight (possibly H or HB) lead drawing pencil is one of the best drawing tools for freehand sketches as the pencil can create a line easily by applying little pressure. Other media such as watercolour, modeled clay or soft wax provides another form of sketch in a broader sense of term. Kneaded eraser is an important tool for most of the artist as it helps to remove and soften lines for visual effect. Sketch has varied purposes in modern culture. Sketchers are drawn by courtroom artists and authorities also use sketches to trace wanted criminals.
There are few tips and guidelines for beginners to sketch effectively. Start to sketch on a square grid as your reference point. The grid ensures that the production has the same proportion throughout the drawing. To draw horizontal lines, move the pencil from left to right (for right handed sketchers) while vertical lines are drawn from the top in a downward direction.
Avoid turning your wrist as the line will arc. Angled line should be drawn from left to right angling either upwards or downwards. You may rotate the paper to achieve a better effect. Perfectly round circle are the most difficult to draw freehand. Start the sketch by drawing vertical or horizontal centre lines at the centre point of the circle. Then estimate the radius of the circle on center lines before forming a box with line parallel to the centre lines. Finally, move the pencil from left to right to create four arcs by rotating the paper regularly.
