Start drawing - From simple shape to character

A few years ago, when I was an art student, my teachers used to tell us over and over again:"Have a sketch book. Do lots of sketches. Draw!!!" But for some reason, I haven't. I didn't even have a proper sketch book. And I rarely draw after I passed my basic drawing course. Didn't really have any time to, being too busy worrying about other subjects.

These days I've realized how important drawing is.

You see, a couple of months ago I started working with Adobe Illustrator. While trying to master the software, I've realized one thing: it has to be a sketch based. I realized that I better have some reference image before I start doing something. And since I wanted my illustrations to be based on my own sketches, there was nothing for me to do than, well, start sketching. So, as usual, I started my search.

I found this lovely book called Fun with a Pencil
by Andrew Loomis, where he presents a simple method of drawing from basic shapes. It took me quite a while to get myself into this method, but results were more than satisfying. I would even say that most of the images I've created during these months are based on this method. It is simple, cute and has some great examples in it. So if you are a beginner, this book is definitely for you.

What do you think? Do you have other methods and books that you found useful when started drawing?

Making an umbrella with Illustrator.

There are several ways to create realistic umbrella with Illustrator. In this tutorial I will cover one of them.



This is the umbrella we will be creating this time. Make sure your reference image of umbrella is multi-colored divided to sections.





1. Open a new document (Cltr+N) and File-Place your reference image. It is always good to separate things at the beginning so Lock the first layer and open a new one. Set the Fill color to None.


2. Start outlining each section of the umbrella using a Pen Tool. Remember, that in order to create curved lines you should point and drag your mouse and only then release it. Each section should be outlined on a separate layer.



If your shape doesn't look exactly as your reference shape, choose the Direct selection Tool (A) and choose an angle on your shape. Then press Alt on your keyboard so you can work with each handle separately to adjust the lines.


3. After outlining all the umbrella sections add a handle and a top to the umbrella using a Rounder rectangle tool.
4. Hide the layer with the reference image.


5. To color the umbrella use either multiple base colors or create a nice gradient color.


6. That’s it – hope you found it useful.

If you have any questions - don't hesitate to ask. I will be happy to answer it.