Playing with Pens

For my next project I broke out my Tsukineko inks and pens. I collected most of these while taking a class with Lura Schwarz Smith, one of the best teachers I've ever had. In truth, I had no idea what I was signing up for. If I had realized how much drawing we would do (I can't draw, only artists can draw!), I would have never chosen that class. But Lura was a delightful teacher, and I learned a lot.

The tools are very simple, a tiny bottle of ink (which goes a really long way), Fabrico markers (which have both a pen and brush nib), and Fantastix (pointed for drawing or bullet shaped for shading.) I love the fantastix. Just dip them into the ink, rub on a bit of waste cloth until you have the intensity you desire, and then color away. It feels a lot like using crayons, but not as streaky as crayons or pencils.

I did a couple of samples, trying to remember all the terrific stuff I learned from Lura.

On my blue sample, in addition to the pens and ink, I used an ink called Champagne Mist. Applied with a brush, it adds just the tiniest hint of sparkle. We all need a little sparkle, right?

Here it is in all its glory. I free handed the basic outline (it's what my friends call a Beth flower.) I tried to pay attention to what would be in shadow, and what would be highlighted. I have a thing for dotted centers, it sort of makes it look fluffy or textured.

Here's my second try. A little less streaky, especially in the leaves and buds.

I really like how this bud came out, and the curvy leaf. Exactly what I was going for! Have you ever played with art supplies? Did you like it?