Tips and Techniques: June

Exploring pens for sketching with our theme of the month ‘Stairs, Steps & Archways’

In the world of sketching, the choice of pens can make a significant difference to the outcome of your artwork. One crucial characteristic to consider is whether the pen is waterproof, as understanding the waterproof qualities of different pens can unlock a world of possibilities in your architectural drawings.

Experimentation is key. Try out various pens, both conventional and specialised, to determine which ones possess waterproof or even water soluble properties. Testing their resistance to water can be a fun and enlightening process as you might discover that some pens smudge or bleed when exposed to water, while others retain their crisp lines and vibrant colours.

So, how can this knowledge benefit your architectural endeavours? Picture this: you're sketching a stunning building design, and suddenly, a few raindrops splatter on your drawing. If you have used a waterproof pen, you can confidently continue without worrying about your lines running or colours blending into a mess. Waterproof pens give you the freedom to sketch outdoors, even in unpredictable weather conditions.

Moreover, when you are working on architectural projects that involve water features or outdoor structures, having waterproof pens at your disposal ensures that your sketches accurately reflect the intended vision but a pen that runs may create a mark that loosens up your work or even be a better consideration for some of the shadows and textures. Your drawings will maintain their clarity, precision, and professional presentation, enhancing your ability to communicate ideas effectively.

So, dear aspiring architects and sketching enthusiasts, grab your sketchbooks and embark on a journey of exploration. Experiment with different pens, test their waterproof properties and observe how they perform under various conditions. Discover the pens that best suit your style and enhance your drawings.

In this video, I share some of my pen collection and show you the fastest way to discover which pen is going to be the best choice for you. Please note, there is no audio for this video, just lovely relaxing music for you to enjoy.

See you soon, Ali