How to Start Drawing Again After a Long Break: Tips, Tools, and Inspiration
Life happens. Work, family, or even creative burnout can pull us away from our artistic pursuits. If you’ve found yourself away from drawing for weeks, months, or even years, you’re not alone. Picking up the pencil again might feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This blog will help you rediscover your passion for drawing with practical tips, recommended tools, and inspiration to get back into the creative groove.
1. Start Small and Keep It Simple
Jumping back into drawing doesn’t mean creating a masterpiece on your first try. Instead, focus on small, manageable exercises that allow you to rebuild your confidence and skills.
Ideas to Get Started:
Set Mini Challenges: Draw one small object every day for a week.
Doodles and Sketches
Spend 10–15 minutes sketching simple objects around you—a coffee mug, your hand, or your pet.
Recommended Tool:
Sketchpad with Smooth Paper: Try the Strathmore 400 Series Sketch Pad for versatile sketching. Its smooth surface works beautifully with pencils and pens, making it perfect for easing back into drawing.
2. Embrace Mistakes as Part of the Process
One common barrier to starting again is the fear of not being “good enough.” Let that go. Remember, art is about expression, not perfection.
Practical Tip:
Keep an “Ugly Sketchbook”: Use a notebook specifically for experimentation. No erasing, no judgment—just free, imperfect lines.
Recommended Tool:
Pencil Set with Varied Hardness: The Castle Art Supplies Graphite Drawing Pencils include a range of pencils from soft (B) to hard (H), giving you flexibility to experiment.
3. Create a Dedicated Drawing Space
Having a comfortable and inspiring place to draw can make a huge difference in rekindling your creative flow.
Steps to Set Up Your Space:
Choose a quiet, clutter-free corner of your home.
Keep your materials visible and accessible so you’re reminded to draw.
Add personal touches, like plants or art prints, to inspire you.
Recommended Tools for Your Setup:
Adjustable Desk Lamp: The Glocusent LED Desk Lamp offers adjustable brightness and angles, ensuring your workspace is well-lit for any time of day.
Portable Sketchboard: For those who prefer to draw on the couch, the Arteza Drawing Board provides a stable, comfortable surface.
4. Use Prompts to Spark Creativity
Feeling stuck on what to draw? Prompts can break through creative blocks and get your pencil moving.
Fun Prompt Ideas:
Illustrate a memory from your childhood.
Draw your favorite food with exaggerated, vibrant details.
Reimagine a famous painting in your own style.
Recommended Tool:
Prompt Cards for Artists: The Endless Art Challenge Card Deck: is packed with inspiration, offering bite-sized ideas to get your creative juices flowing.
5. Try New Techniques or Mediums
Sometimes, a change can reignite your love for drawing. Experimenting with a new medium or technique might be exactly what you need.
Techniques to Explore:
Blind Contour Drawing: Draw an object without looking at your paper. It’s liberating and fun!
Shading Practice: Play with light and shadow to add depth to your sketches.
Tools to Try:
Micron Pens for Line Art: The Sakura Pigma Micron Pen Set provides archival-quality ink for crisp, detailed drawings.
Blending Tools: Experiment with Prismacolor Colorless Blenders to smooth out colored pencil work or add subtle gradients.
6. Join a Community for Accountability and Motivation
Getting involved with other artists can provide the encouragement you need to stay consistent.
Ideas for Community Engagement:
Join online groups on platforms like Pinterest or Instagram to share your progress.
Participate in monthly challenges like Inktober or Sketchuary.
Recommended Tool:
Art Journal with Social Media Inspiration: Use the Moleskine Art Sketchbook to track your progress and share snapshots of your journey online.
7. Make Drawing Part of Your Routine
Incorporate drawing into your daily schedule, even if it’s only for a few minutes. Consistency will help you build momentum and confidence.
Practical Tip:
Set a timer for 10 minutes and draw whatever comes to mind. Gradually increase your time as drawing becomes a habit.
Recommended Tool:
Timer App or Desk Timer: Use an app like Forest to stay focused, or grab the Secura Visual Timer for a physical reminder to stick to your art time.
Why This Is Your Time to Start Again
Drawing isn’t about being perfect or impressing others—it’s about reconnecting with yourself and your creativity. Whether you’re sketching for fun or aiming to sharpen your skills, the journey is worth it.
Take it slow, be patient, and remember that every artist starts somewhere—sometimes even twice.
Final Thoughts
Restarting your drawing journey after a long break can be exciting and transformative. By using the tips above, experimenting with new tools, and setting realistic goals, you’ll soon rediscover the joy of drawing.
Ready to take that first step? Grab your favorite sketchpad, sharpen your pencils, and let’s draw!
Pin this blog for later inspiration!
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