[Padmasana Shukla]

For a beginner in sketching, it’s recommended to use a medium-weight paper that has a smooth surface. A sketchbook or drawing pad with acid-free paper is a good choice. This type of paper allows for easy erasing and blending of pencil lines. As you progress and gain more experience, you can experiment with different papers based on your preferences and the medium you’re using.

Regarding quilling, the time it takes to learn the art can vary depending on various factors, including your dedication, practice frequency, and the complexity of designs you want to achieve.

1. You can grasp the basic techniques of quilling relatively quickly. Understanding how to make basic shapes like coils, teardrops, and scrolls, as well as learning to glue and assemble them, can be achieved within a few hours or days of focused practice.

2. As with any art form, mastering quilling requires practice and patience. It takes time to develop precision, consistency, and control in creating intricate designs and more advanced shapes. It’s recommended to practice regularly, dedicating a few hours each week to quilling, to refine your skills.

3. Once you have a solid foundation in quilling, you can start exploring more advanced techniques like creating 3D designs, incorporating different paper widths or colors, and experimenting with different quilling tools. Learning and mastering these techniques will take additional time and practice.

It’s important to note that the learning process is ongoing, and you can continue to refine your skills and experiment with new designs even after becoming proficient. The time it takes to become proficient in quilling can range from a few weeks to several months or more, depending on your dedication and the level of intricacy you wish to achieve in your quilling projects.

[Padmasana Shukla]

1. Always begin your sketch with light, loose lines to establish the basic shapes and proportions. This will allow you to make corrections easily.

2. When sketching hard objects or scenes, it’s helpful to observe and break them down into simpler shapes.

3. References such as photos, objects, or real-life scenes can provide valuable inspiration. They can help you understand the details, lighting, and textures of the subject you’re sketching.

4. Gesture drawing involves quickly capturing the essence and movement of a subject with minimal lines. It helps in developing fluidity and capturing the overall gesture and energy of your subjects.

5. Different pencil grades (ranging from hard to soft) produce varied line weights and textures. Experimenting with various pencils can give your sketches depth and dimension.

6. Understanding how light interacts with objects is crucial for creating realistic sketches. Study the principles of light and shadow, including the concepts of highlights, midtones, and shadows. Use shading techniques to bring your sketches to life.