Disclosure: I received a free book to review. Opinions shared are mine. Post and giveaway form contain affiliate links; if you make a purchase, I may earn commission.
I’ve often admired how some artists can freehand a sketch and somehow form a recognizable image. My doodling skills are seriously lacking; to hope for a better result with actual effort is pointless. Brush Pen Illustration is just the type of book a beginner (like me) needs!
Step-by-step instructions like these won’t be necessary to all artists. For beginners, though, it’s crucial to know what those first lines look like. I have a few brush pens that are used for lettering fun, so I pulled one out to try some of these sketches. I love to use brush pens because they make everything feel so fancy. And, I do love me some fancy!
While it might not seem like a huge accomplishment to some, this little wedge of whatever brought me great joy. It could be a watermelon slice, a piece of pie, or a sliver of cake…..it just looks like SOMETHING. Using the brush pen gave me more control over the width and design of the initial lines. The book Brush Pen Illustrations really guides the artist through each step. It also explains the mechanics of filling in the blank space around the photo. It’s iconic Japanese art, and reminded me of the way my mom draws. I used to ask her, “But how do I make that line?” She showed me, but couldn’t explain in words. This book bridged that gap for me.
Having a set of brush pens is really handy! I like to use these for signing cards, addressing envelopes, and just basic lettering. You can find these at many stores, as well as on Amazon. The skills plus the pens equals a chance to make some fun, one-of-a-kind bookmarks and other handmade gifts! You can use watercolor brush pens to make your finished product look like a work of art.
Thanks to Quarto for sending me a copy of Brush Pen Illustrations.
All of their pen sets look amazing, there are many of them that I could get a lot of use out of. Some of them would be great for my adult coloring books that I have.
I would love to win this because I am an artist and usually use pencil but would like to try pens.
Been fascinated by different pens as a kid.. this would b e nice
Because I love books and art!
My son loves drawing and wiuld enjoy this.
would…sorry!
I would love to win this book for my niece who loves art in many forms.
Because I’d love to start drawing and coloring more! I loved art in school but it’s been so many years so I’ve drawn.
I want to win so I can make personalized art for cards for my friends and family.
I’d love to learn how to use brush pens and this looks like a great book to get started with. I want to get back into drawing but am a bit afraid to, this would be great to get me started. Thanks for the giveaway.
Like the dual brush markers. Could create some really cool effects with these
I love doodling and drawing, and they have so many new types of pens anymore you can purchase.
I want to win because we like to make our own cards and these would help with that.
I am not a creatively inclined person but I would love to win so I can find new ways to relax. I think coloring, painting, or something design related will relax me.
I want to win for my daughter who likes doodling.
I like coloring a lot, so I really enjoy reading your article. I thank you for sharing the information.
My friend’s granddaughter is a budding artist and she’d love this.
Thanks for the contest.