How to sketch every day: introducing Analog Day
In my earlier post, How to start a sketchbook (even when you don’t know what to draw, I shared how I struggled with perfectionism and the pressure to have a perfect sketchbook. I used to stare at a blank page unsure of what to draw. My breakthrough came when I stopped asking “What should I draw?” and started asking “How do I want to draw today?” I realized it wasn’t about the subject or theme, but about enjoying the process itself.
Now, my sketchbook is more of a playground where I can experiment, try new techniques, and explore different materials. The more time I spent in my sketchbook, the more I realized how much I enjoyed stepping away from screens and embracing the “analog” feel of traditional techniques. This led me to the idea of turning it into a habit and a new Substack series. I call it Analog Day.
What is Analog Day?
In simple terms, Analog Day is about muting your phone, and immersing yourself in sketching. It’s not about creating perfect “sketchbook tour” pages, but about finding time for exploration without the pressure of social media (or the fear of failure). The idea is simple: choose one day a week (or even just an hour) to put away your phone, mute your notifications, and give yourself permission to just play. It’s the perfect way to turn your sketchbook into a tool for discovery.
Sketchbook creative modes
Instead of worrying about what to draw, I now ask myself: How do I want to explore today? Do I want to focus on shapes, play with color, or experiment with linework? I created a guide for myself, something I call “creative modes”.
Warm-ups: quick, no-pressure sketches to loosen up and get into the flow.
Experiments: trying out new techniques, colors, or materials.
Line: exploring line to define shapes and forms.
Shape: focusing on form like circles, squares, and triangles.
Structure: thinking about the underlying structure of the object
Color: playing with color theory and experimenting with different color palettes.
Composition: playing with the same object using different compositions
Observation: drawing what I see
Speed: quick, gestural sketches
Now I can choose one mode to focus on instead of getting stuck on what to draw.
Why Analog Day is good for you?
By now, I think we all know how detrimental phones and social media can be to our focus and mental health. Personally, I found it incredibly relaxing and healing to mute notifications and focus on the tactile experience of sketching. Since I started this habit my anxiety has dropped, and on the days I use my phone less, I sleep better. Maybe you can experience the same benefits too. Plus, isn’t it rewarding to see your sketchbook filling up?
Analog Day sketchbook prompt
To make it easier for you to get started, I’d like to introduce one of my creative modes: Observation, with a focus on angles. Here’s the idea behind it: Choose one object from your surroundings and draw it from multiple perspectives. Start by drawing it from one simple angle, then rotate it slightly and draw it again. Repeat this process a few times, exploring how the object changes from each new viewpoint. Don’t worry about perfection! The goal is to get comfortable with observing from different angles and practicing your perspective skills. Remember, the more you sketch, the easier it gets.
I’m sharing a page from my own sketchbook below. As you can see, it’s not perfect (I’m still experimenting with my new Neocolor II set) and the object I chose is simple. But that’s the point: your sketchbook doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s about the process, not the outcome.
One of my sketchbook pages where I use this cute little Russian doll for reference
Let’s make this a habit?
If you want to receive more sketchbook prompts, consider subscribing to my Substack, where I send one Analog Day sketchbook prompt each month.
And of course, if you want to share your sketches, tag me on Instagram or Substack, or leave a comment below with a link to your work. I can’t wait to see how you approach this prompt!
Until next time,
Mila