Sketchbook Ideas: What to Draw Around You

You don’t need to wait for the perfect subject to open your sketchbook.

Drawing can begin right where you are, with whatever is already around you. The things you see every day are full of shapes, lines, and stories, even if they seem ordinary at first. Your sketching gear, a mug on the table, or the contents of your bag can be more than enough. Everything becomes interesting the moment you start drawing it.

If you feel stuck, try one of these simple prompts:

• your art tools

• your hands or feet

• a houseplant

• your meal or coffee

• a favorite piece of clothing

• something from the fridge or pantry

• a pair of shoes

• a quick selfie

• a stack of books

• a chair

• your coffee maker or favorite mug

• your pet or a family member

• a corner of your room

• a musical instrument

• your toothbrush and toothpaste

• the contents of your bag

Pick one, start drawing, and see where it takes you.