Learn How to Draw with These 3 FREE Simple Drawing Lessons

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Written By Sam Davis Ph.D.

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Do you want to learn how to draw? It's easier than you think! In these free drawing lessons, we will show you how to sketch objects and scenes with ease. You don't need any special skills or supplies – just a few minutes of your time and some paper and pencils. So what are you waiting for? Start learning how to draw today!

There are TONS of free resources out there for drawing. So many that it can be super intimidating. That's why we've put together this list of best drawing lessons for beginners.

Person doodling on a booklet

Do I really need to do drawing exercises?

Many people are hesitant to engage in drawing exercises, often feeling that they have no inherent artistic ability or talent. However, there are numerous proven benefits of engaging in regular drawing activities, including improved hand-eye coordination, increased creativity and problem solving skills, and better perception of the world around you.

In addition, practicing different techniques and exercises can help to improve your skill level over time. So whether you consider yourself an artist or not, it is worth trying at least a few simple drawing exercises to see how much they might benefit you. If nothing else, they can be a fun way to spend some time and tap into your inner artist!

How do I learn new drawing techniques?

One of the best ways to learn new drawing techniques is to take a class from a qualified instructor. Not only will you be able to receive feedback on your work, but you'll also be able to ask questions and get one-on-one help. If taking a class isn't possible, there are plenty of excellent books and online resources that can teach you new skills.

Another great way to learn is by studying the work of other artists and trying to replicate their techniques. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The more you practice, the better you'll become at drawing.

Will I be able to draw a straight line?

Drawing a straight line sounds like a simple task, but it can be surprisingly difficult. The key is to keep your hand steady and move the pencil in a fluid motion. To practice, start by drawing a series of short lines. Some artists will practice by drawing in the air a few times before putting pencil to paper.

Once you get the hang of it, try long lines. If you find your hand starts to shake, take a break and try again later. With a little practice, you'll be able to draw a perfectly straight line in no time. Then, you can work on curves and everything else!

But – and this is important – don't let your lack of straight lines hold you back from drawing. There are plenty of artists, myself included, that struggle with consistency in lines. Practice and time will help. And you'll discover other techniques where it won't matter as much.

Can I draw perfect circles?

Remember, there are a lot of tools out there if you struggle with freehanding cricles. There are many different ways to draw perfect circles, but the best method depends on your skill level and the tools that are available to you. For beginners, a simple compass can be used to make precise circles quickly and easily. Simply place the point of the compass on the center of the circle that you want to draw, extend one arm out perpendicular from it, and rotate back towards the center until it hits the edge of your paper. Then connect up from there with your pen or pencil and repeat along any other edges that need to be joined.

This simple technique is a good choice for anyone who needs to draw precise geometric figures frequently. More advanced artists may prefer more advanced tools, such as pantographs, mechanical arms for drawing signatures or arrows, string rulers for making arcs, or rotational techniques using dials or goniometers. However you choose to draw circles, just remember that practice makes perfect! With a little bit of effort and patience, you'll be able to create beautiful symmetrical shapes in no time at all.

The BEST Resource for Free Drawing Tutorials: How To Draw A Box

Drawabox is a free resource for getting started with simple drawing exercises. They offer ways for you to improve your drawing skills with simple drawings of boxes. Every detailed tutorial makes sense on it's own, and you'll be drawing in no time. I'm a big fan of DrawABox because it's a free resource and it's why I started drawing years ago.

The NEXT BEST Resource for Free Drawing Tutorials: Your Local Library

This isn't as sexy as some of the other things out there, but your local library is a great source of free drawing lessons. You can find books teaching you how to create shapes, characters, and improve upon your drawings. They have resources for beginners and experts alike.

More importantly, your local library may provide free access to paid courses at places like LinkedInLearning (formerly Lynda). There are a lot of classes on LinkedIn Learning to help you draw things, and even graphic design courses. If you draw slowly, you'll be able to retain the lessons and develop your own artistic style.

An OKAY Resource for Free Drawing Lessons: YouTube and Twitch

There are literally thousands of great artists who sketch, draw shapes and lines, use pencil and paper, and have fun making art for their viewers. YouTube and Twitch are both platforms where you can find countless tutorials and drawing exercises for beginners and experts alike. You can even join in on a challenge or two.

Remember: every artist is going to have different drawing exercises and different characteristics that they'll bring attention to. The important thing to do is to PAY ATTENTION to how they create their shapes, drawings, and art. Art is a process, and ultimately, drawing exercises are going to just help you learn your own process.

My only concern with YouTube and Twitch is volume. There are so many great artists on there that you can run into decision fatigue. The improtant thing to remember when drawing alongside YouTube videos is to not get sucked into a “watching instead of doing” hole.

You really do want to pick a video and then DO it. Draw the shapes. Sketch the lines. Follow the lessons. Don't get caught up in finding the best resource, because practice is going to be more important than finding the perfect artist to follow along with.

Final Thoughts: A Sketch In Time …

I hope, with this list, you're well on your way to making drawings, becoming an artist, and excelling at art lessons. Your drawings will reflect your character, and I think we're all out here excited to see what you create. Sketch away, and quit worrying about your lines: you'll get there.

Let us know in the comments who your favorite drawings and artists art. We're excited to watch you develop!

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