In Lesson 1 we stripped drawing down to its utmost simplicity.

• how to properly sharpen a pencil with a razor and how to finish the point with sandpaper.

• how to measure — without a ruler — using only a pencil.

• the line was introduced as the simplest and most powerful unit in drawing and then we learned how to divide it into halves, quarters, thirds and fifths.

Now, we will take the next logical step: constructing a square — aka a plane.

Why the Square Matters

The square is one of the most important geometric forms in drawing.

Learn to draw a square — and in future lessons, a square in perspective — and you will gain a visual grid, a way to “think” spatially on the page.

— which will unlock you ability to draw in 3-D (in perspective).

But drawing a true square freehand is more difficult than it sounds.

This lesson will teach you how to:

• Construct an accurate freehand square

• How to section a square

• How to duplicate the square and its sections

Part 1: Constructing the Square

Geometrically, a plane is:

“a flat, two-dimensional surface that extends infinitely in all directions.”

-Euclid, Elements

A square, essentially, is a section of a plane in which its length and width are equal and its 4 interior angles are all at 90°s to one another.

Remember, NO STRAIGHTEDGES!!!

Step 1: Draw Your Base Line

• With your pencil draw a vertical line (the bigger the better)

• From the top and bottom of that line draw draw two horizontal lines parallel with each other.

Step 2: Find the Horizontal Length

• Using the measurement technique in Lesson 1, measure the length of the vertical line and then mark it on one (or both) of the horizontal lines.

• Then, draw a vertical line from that measurement to complete the square

You now have a square.

— it should be noted that some of the lines may appear curved or not perfectly in proportion (as in the picture below).

This is due to the photo distortion of my phone’s camera — I can assure you they are straight.

The square is the basic form — like a block of marble.

From it we can sculpt out circles, triangles, pentagons and hexagons.

We will master these basic shapes — which won’t take long — and will then learn how to draw all of these forms in perspective.

From there, we will learn to draw the 3 dimensional version of a square — the cube.

But first, we need to learn how to section and duplicate the square in Part 2 and 3 of this lesson …

Before we begin, a special thanks to subscribers who pay for the publication, or expense it as an educational resource or a write off on their taxes. By upgrading your subscription, you’ll gain access to this full lesson — plus every future drawing lesson and 100% free access to all digital products in the shop.

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Today, we'll focus on essential skills every artist needs:

How to sharpen a pencil the right way, drawing lines, and dividing lines.

How to Sharpen a Pencil

Pencil sharpeners are for children.

The first skill every artist should learn is how to properly sharpen a pencil

— the right way

Let’s do it…

1. Safely Removing Pencil Wood with a Razor

Proper pencil preparation gives you greater control over your lines. Follow these steps carefully:

• Safety First: Always push the razor away from your body and fingers.

• Hold your pencil firmly in your non-dominant hand, pointed away from you.

• With gentle pressure, shave small amounts of wood at an angle, exposing about half an inch of the graphite core.

• Rotate the pencil slowly, evenly removing wood on all sides.

• Stop once enough graphite is exposed, creating a long taper ideal for versatile drawing lines.

• The end result should leave you with a graphite length of about half an inch and exposed wood of about an inch.

***Make sure the lead isn’t too long, or it will break while drawing!

Always work slowly and deliberately — patience is key!

2. Sharpening Your Pencil with Artist's Sandpaper

Now let's achieve a sharp and precise drawing point:

• Hold the pencil almost flat against your sandpaper.

• Lightly rub the graphite core back and forth while rotating the pencil, forming a smooth, tapered point.

• Adjust pressure to refine the tip as needed.

• Check frequently to avoid breaking the graphite.

A finely sharpened pencil allows precise detail and accurate hatch marks.

Some artists like to sharpen multiple pencils at a time so they can work continuously.

Personally, I like using one.

Frequently sharpening my pencil allows my thoughts to unwind so I can decentrate and look upon what I am doing with a ‘fresh eye.’

How many pencils you use is up to you.

Before we begin, a special thanks to subscribers who pay for the publication, or expense it as an educational resource or a write off on their taxes.

Let’s begin drawing👇

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If you’re a homeschooling parent looking for a way to introduce your kids to art without buying expensive materials — this course is for you.

And if you’ve ever dreamed of drawing not just what you see, but what you imagine — this course is definitely for you.

Welcome to my …

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