My Experiments with Ecoline Watercolors

Recently, I decided to dive into the vibrant world of Ecoline Liquid Watercolors and see what they could do. These intense, dye-based paints are known for their fluidity and glowing colors, which makes them very different from traditional pan or tube watercolors. I gave myself a challenge: try five different techniques and let the results […]
Exploring Art with Children’s Materials

Who says art supplies are just for kids? Sometimes the most playful tools spark the most creative results! I decided to explore my collection of children’s art materials, and they surprised me with their expressiveness and versatility. Btw, if you are looking for perfect pastels, I have a new post about my pastel collection. Rainbow […]
Pastels I Use for Sketching

Pastels have become a vital part of my sketching toolkit, allowing me to quickly capture mood, atmosphere, and vibrant color. Over time, I’ve tried various types—from high-end oil pastels to humble children’s sticks—and each one has surprised me in different ways. Below are four pastel sets I’ve used, paired with sketches that reflect their character […]
Exploring My Water-Soluble Art Supplies

One of my favorite things about sketching is exploring how different materials respond to real locations, changing weather, and fast-moving scenes. Over time, I’ve come to rely on five main water-soluble tools: pencils, markers, brush pens, a fountain pen, and pastels. Each has its strengths—and quirks—and I’ve used them in field sketches to document architecture, […]
Exploring One Reference Through Different Sketching Styles

Facing the Grand Canal in Venice, directly across from Santa Lucia Station, stands the majestic San Simeone Piccolo — a neoclassical church with a striking green dome that has become one of the first architectural icons visitors see upon arrival. I’ve sketched this view multiple times, each time using different materials and approaches. My goal […]
5 Beach Sketches from the California Coastline

Sketching at the beach is one of the most rewarding experiences I know—sunlight, crashing waves, and ever-changing light that pushes you to capture the moment fast. Each spot has its own mood, from iconic landmarks to peaceful coves. These five beach sketches were all done on-site around Laguna Beach, using just a small kit with […]
5 Quick Sketches Around Mission Viejo Lake

Sometimes, the best sketching adventures happen just a few steps from your front door. Sketching near home is a kind of travel too — a way to see the familiar with fresh eyes and appreciate the beauty hidden in everyday corners. I love grabbing my small sketchbook and heading out with just two Pental brush […]
5 Places You Should Sketch in the USA

As an artist, I’ve always believed that the best way to truly see a place is to sketch it. Something magical happens when you sit down with a pencil and a blank page and start observing. I’ve discovered that some places practically beg to be drawn. The textures, shapes, and atmospheres they offer are more […]
Pros and Cons of Handmade Sketchbook

Creating my own handmade sketchbook has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my creative journey. As someone who loves drawing and journaling, I found that making a sketchbook from scratch gave me a deeper connection to the work I put inside it. From choosing the paper to stitching the binding, every step felt […]
How to Make a Handmade Sketchbook in 5 Steps

There’s something special about working in a sketchbook you’ve made yourself. Not only does it reflect your personal style, but it’s also tailored to suit your creative needs. In this guide, I’ll show you how to craft your very own handmade sketchbook in five simple steps. Whether you’re new to bookbinding or just looking for […]