How to draw pictures?

Drawing is not only a form of artistic expression buy also a useful tool to communicate ideas in business. In this article, we'll show you what you need to know so that you can improve your standard of drawing. Read on to find out what tools, equipment and skills you need.

Types of drawing

Freehand sketching
This is what most people think of when we refer to drawing. It is a form of artistic expression and usually done for pleasure. For this, you'll need a range pencils in different thicknesses, some good quality cartridge paper and a plastic eraser. Technical drawing
This is an engineering discipline and is used to communicate dimensions and details of designs. You'll need some flexi-curves, set squares, propelling pencils,a T-Square and a drawing board. Drawing in this style is governed by internationally recognised standards known as BS, ANSI and ISO. Computer Aided Drawing
CAD is usually a computer form of technical drawing. However, many people don't realise that it can also be an artistic endeavour. There are many free drawing tools available online. These range from free image editing programs such as GIMP to more complex 3D drawing programs like Google Sketchup. Painting software like Sketchbook is used in conjunction with scanned paper sketches by many professional artists.

Improving your drawing

If you decide to get serious about your drawing, then there are many things you can do to help yourself. Contrary to popular belief, a great deal of drawing is about set skills that can be learned rather than just "natural talent". Practicing your drawing skills online
Use the internet to research drawing calisthenics. These are a set of exercises which, if practised every day will improve your ability to draw a variety of lines, shapes and shading techniques. Refer to textbooks
When you have mastered these basic techniques, learn how to apply geometric construction techniques like two and three point perspective. Again, these are learned skills and text book knowledge which will vastly improve your sketches. Tips
The younger you can start to learn to draw, the more ingrained good habits will become. If you have children, then look for drawing lessons for kids during school holidays. These will give your children a useful and practical skill that will pay them back their whole life. Children love summer art schools and they are about much more than sitting around drawing fruit! If you are more interested in drawing images using computer, look out for courses at your local adult education centre to get you started. Remember, anyone can learn to draw. Talent might make you into the next Da Vinci, but practise and technical knowledge will make you a very competent drawer.