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Organizing materials and drawing space

Not everyone can have a nice big well planned out studio, but, because you'll be constantly reaching for pencils and other supplies, it is a good idea to make yourself comfortable in your work space and set yourself up in a way that will save you as much time as possible. There is no need to go into great expense to set up your drawing space.

• Keep your work area clean so that your paper will be clean, keep your drafting brush close at hand to brush your paper clean
• You need a large enough space that will accommodate the size of paper you wish to work on, as well as room for your pencils and tools
• You will need a smooth flat table or drafting table or drawing board. The surface should be smooth so that you do not get indentations on your paper as you work. It's important to have a comfortable chair with back support as well
• Of course your drawing space is the center of attraction and therefore you'll need good lighting. Natural sunlight is best and having the light in front of you works well as not to cast shadows from your hand or pencil while drawing. Consider covering your paper when you're not working on it for long periods of time. If you need lamps, try to use light bulbs that simulate natural daylight
• Keep your pencils and often used tools in close reach so that you don't have to get up too much, if you have limited space, then keep at least one container handy and reachable with the pencils and tools you need for the particular drawing you're working on. You could also have them on a shelf or table in front or next to you if they can't be on the same table
• It is convenient to have all other supplies neatly stored in the same room but obviously not necessary

Storing your pencils

It really doesn't matter in which type of container you store your pencils, as long as they don't roll off your table you're good to go! Do keep them with the points facing to the top if you have them vertically of course. It's nice to have them in see through containers and helpful if the containers are not too tall, so that you can easily get to pencils that become shorter. It is equally fine to keep them in a horizontal container if you prefer. Either way, if possible, the more you have the better, because it helps to keep them sorted into different color groups.

Storing your paper

Keep your papers stored horizontally if possible and in a dry environment at room temperature and away from windows. Handle your paper with care, prevent paper from bending or scratching and inspect it before you work to make sure there are no flaws, like deep scratches or dents.

coloredpencilpoints.com by Liesl Huddleston, 2007