The Sunday Spread: November 5, 2023

Hi there. How are you?

Welcome back to the Sunday Spread. Each week I give you a glimpse into my sketchbook and drawing practice. Posted mostly every Sunday.

I’ve been ignoring the boxes of studio stuff that have been in the basement since we moved into our house a little over a year ago. One of our winter goals is to set up a sitting area down there, so it’s time to put away and organize the boxes.

While working my way through the boxes, I unearthed a set of Paper Mate Flair pens that I was gifted years ago. Flair pens have been a favorite of mine for writing for ages, but I haven’t done much drawing with them. (Read about all my favorite pens HERE.)

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Pattern drawing made with Flair pens in a square sketchbook.

Flair Pens are Perfect for Pattern

I brought the Flair pens up to my studio couch where they sat for a few days. After a particularly trying Monday at work, they called to me, and I listened.

I started in the upper right corner (where the circles are a little wonky.) I didn’t know where this was headed, and just started moving my pen around the page. As I worked, the pattern emerged, and I kept going until I filled the page.

This type of drawing moves a lot faster than my ballpoint spreads, so I finished 3 in a week and started a 4th!

Abstract pattern drawing in maroon, orange and blue Flair tip pen.

Meditative Mark Making

I’ve always found this type of drawing to be very relaxing and even meditative. It’s something I’ve come back to over and over again since I was a kid. (Did you ever color patterns on graph paper? Loved it!) Read more about my love and exploration for pattern HERE.

Lots of little lines. I love the way it looks and man, it’s so satisfying to create! You can see how the confidence in my mark making grew in this spread. There’s more precision and a little more detail.

Started with Scribbles

I came across this Reel and had to try it. I scribbled with my Sharpie S-Note markers and then worked over the scribbles with a black flair tip. More little lines were added to give some depth and interest. Lastly, I added the loopy line in the background to tie the 3 lines of scribbles together.

I really enjoyed making these spreads. I’ll probably continue on this flair tip pen for a bit, before I dive back into ballpoint.

Orange cat sleeping on the couch

That’s all for now.

I leave you with Richard, in his current position, snoozing on me as I type from my office (couch.) Lazy Sundays are the best!

I think Richard or Cleo might be a permanent feature on the Sunday Spread. Who doesn’t like cute cat pictures?

Ciao, Jen

 
 
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Sketchbook Video Tour - 2023

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The Sunday Spread: October 28, 2023