Urban Sketching in Ink: Loose and Fuss-Free

Back in August I spent a day in beautiful Bath, UK, sketchbook in hand of course. I recorded the process of this drawing, so you can follow along in the video above.

Big masses first, then line

I started with India ink washes, a darker and a lighter value, using a big flat brush to keep things loose. Roofs and shadows first, then the lighter masses.

Then I added line with a Derwent Inktense pencil for windows, chimneys and texture. I didn't outline the shapes that were already there. The initial shapes do that job, so the line is to add minimal details, vibe and life.

click the image to watch the video

A handy trick for India ink on location

At a workshop that week, I received a small (medical) container that closes tightly, with a sponge inside. Trickle a few drops of ink on the sponge, add water, and you have a gray wash ready to go. More water is lighter, more ink is darker. It's never ideal and will always be a bit messy, but it's an easy way to take ink on location.

Materials I used

• India ink

• Big flat brush

• India ink, in a small airtight container with a sponge

• Derwent Inktense pencil

News: I'm still working on my online program, inspired by my book Life is Better When You Draw It.l I hope to launch it in November! Things have been been delayed a bit because ... well, life. But I am determined to get this thing online before the end of the year. Lots of drawing together, at your own pace, in your own time, and your own place.

You can get on my interest list so you'll be the first to know when the program launches.

If you have the book, it will deepen the experience. If you want to order a copy, go for it now!