- You are always scanning your environment for interesting scenes.
- You are comfortable creating art with strangers watching you.
- You love building a unique, visual diary of your world.
- You dislike having people watch what you are doing.
- You prefer a quiet, private space to focus on your art.
- You get frustrated by results that aren't perfectly finished.
Your first moves.
Don't start from scratch. Start from here.
Start with a Simple Sketchbook and Pen
Acquire a basic, portable sketchbook (like a Strathmore 400 Series Sketch or a Moleskine Art Collection) and a reliable waterproof pen (such as a Sakura Pigma Micron or a Lamy Safari with waterproof ink). Begin by sketching simple objects or scenes close to home, like your coffee cup or a view from your window.
Choose Your First Location
Select a relatively quiet and interesting location for your first outdoor sketch. This could be a park bench with a good view, a quiet corner of a cafe, or a less crowded street corner.
Observe and Sketch Quickly
Spend 5-15 minutes observing your chosen scene. Identify the main elements, focal points, and interesting details.
Add Color (Optional and Simple)
Once you are comfortable with line drawing, consider adding a touch of color using a small portable watercolor set and a water brush. Apply washes lightly to suggest atmosphere, light, and shadow.
Master Urban Sketching with online courses
Find the highest-rated beginner courses on Udemy before you invest in gear.
Sketchbook
Best value for sketching with watercolors, offering robust paper that handles wet media beautifully and preserves colors.
Fineliner Pen
The go-to choice for consistent, rich black ink flow and excellent waterproof performance, balancing quality and price.
Portable Watercolor Set
Artist-Grade Portable Watercolor Palette — This is the sweet spot, offering vibrant, lightfast pigments in a convenient travel tin for exceptional color mixing and portability.
Water Brush Pen
Durable Reservoir Water Brush — The best balance of ease-of-use and reliability, featuring a comfortable grip and a leak-proof reservoir for consistent water flow.
Collapsible Water Cup
Sturdy Collapsible Water Container — This offers the best blend of portability and stability, reliably holding water without spills for your on-location sessions.
Related hobbies
Ranked by dimensional and personality compatibility with Urban Sketching.