What to bring

Materials List for the Course in Drawing from Observation

The following is a list of materials you will need to bring to the course.

Please feel free to contact Mike if you have any questions beforehand on mike@pearsatelier.com

  • White sketch paper pad size A3

  • A few sheets of good quality A3 drawing paper. For example, Academia https://www.jacksonsart.com/fabriano-accademia-drawing-paper-a4-160gsm-150s

    You will not need this during the first week of the course and you should be able to buy sheets of drawing paper at the studio if needed.

  • Graphite pencils, at least one of each: 2H, H, HB, B, and 2B. Good makes are Faber-Castell, Derwent etc

  • Grey kneaded eraser. For example https://www.jacksonsart.com/faber-castell-kneadable-art-eraser

  • Blending stump

  • Utility or craft knife

  • Small sandpaper block. You can buy one or make your own by fixing a piece of fine sandpaper (150-220 grid will do) to a piece of wood or MDF. See video below.

  • Knitting needle or something similar which is long and straight.

  • Masking tape

  • Ruler

  • Tracing paper pad size A3

  • 1 or 2 sable or synthetic hair paintbrushes, flat or filbert, size 4-6 (ie small)

Optional Materials

These are not required for class, but students may find them useful to bring:

  • Pencil storage case

  • Spray fixative

  • Portfolio case to transport drawings safely

  • Clamps: If you happen to have these at home, it might be useful if you bring them with you. If not, no problem. Two clamps to secure your drawing board (any type will do).

A note about pencils

We will use a particular way of sharpening our pencils using a knife and sandpaper. You might be familiar with this method already but if not here are a few short video tutorials including making your own sandpaper sharpening pad:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSFBa46mLGQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kx3f_Oc8Z0