How to Give a New Life to Old Markers?
We all have that drawer or box filled with art supplies that once brought us joy but are now collecting dust. My case was no different—I had a set of Finecolor alcohol markers that had dried out over time, and a 5-color set of Ecoline liquid watercolors I wasn’t sure how to use after testing […]
My Las Vegas Sketch Journey
Las Vegas feels like a playground for travelers and artists alike. I loved the idea of this city: a single street concentrating some of the most famous destinations from around the world. From pyramids to canals and the Eiffel Tower, everything is right there for you to explore. For me, this was the perfect chance […]
What to Sketch in a Landscape Sketchbook
When I first got a landscape-format sketchbook, I was a little puzzled. I was so used to working in portrait orientation that I didn’t know where to begin. The wide format felt awkward at first, and I kept turning it sideways out of habit. But after some exploration, I found several ways to embrace it […]
My Sketch Trip to San Diego
On this sketch trip to San Diego, I decided to challenge myself by using only colored pencils. It was a bit of an experiment — I wanted to see how fast I could work with them, especially when it came to adding color on the go. Colored pencils demand more time and layering than ink […]
Sketch Weekend in Laguna Beach
Last month, I escaped to Laguna Beach with my sketchbook in hand and no strict plans—just the joy of wandering, observing, and capturing moments on paper. The town, with its blend of ocean views, vibrant architecture, and laid-back energy, was the perfect setting for a spontaneous art retreat. I explored beaches, side streets, and garden […]
Sketching People with Colored Pencils
I took part in a week-long sketching marathon where the main focus was people—drawn entirely with colored pencils. It was both a challenge and a refreshing shift from my usual tools. Colored pencils aren’t as quick or forgiving as ink or watercolor, and at first, I struggled with their slower layering process. But by the […]
Sibiu: My Virtual Sketch Journey
Several years ago, I wandered the cobbled streets of Sibiu, Romania — but that was before I started sketching. With no photos left from that trip, I decided to go on a virtual return, exploring Sibiu through references I gathered on Pinterest. I used this as an opportunity to experiment with mixed media: watercolor, pastel, […]
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 […]