So what’s the difference between a sketchbook and a journal? The answer to that is personal preference. For me, sketchbooks and journals have been fairly interchangeable. But a sketchbook often feels more casual and less intensely personal. It’s a place to plan, to capture a moment or complete a study for a larger work. But I have done all those things in my journal, as well.
If that’s what you’re in the mood for, grab a spiral-bound sketchbook or a tablet and jump right in.
Your personal journal can be whatever you make it. It can contain sketches, drawings, finished paintings, images captured while traveling, ideas for your garden, and designs for a new quilt or room re-do. It may also contain written entries: notes, musings, quotes you like, poetry, grocery lists or phone numbers. It’s your journal, so put in it what you like.
Working on the spot often provides a great deal of sensory input, and making note of those things can bring your sketches to life. Maybe you overhear a bit of interesting conversation or a funny story as you sketch. Perhaps you experience a rush of joy, or hear a bit of music that seems to fit perfectly with what you’re drawing. Write it down and it will stay with you as long as your journal does!
Now that you’re armed with personal intent, and you’re ready to carve out the time you need, we’ll look at the materials and supplies you may find essential. Some may be old standbys, others may be brand new to you. I often grow by trying something new, even if it’s outside my comfort zone. You may want to experiment with these in the course of working through this book. Who knows where you’ll end up?
STEVE PENBERTHY
Watercolor Sketch
Sketching on the spot often results in a finished work, a plein air painting or a drawing that you may want to frame, so you may not want to have too many written notes on the page unless you are making color notes or thumbnail value sketches.
CATHY JOHNSON
Watercolor Beach Sketch