ReMastered Course – 
This course has been updated with downloadable assignments, optimized video lesson flow, new reference images, plus standardized rubrics and materials lists for a more effective learning experience.

In this lesson, Steve Huston introduces the fundamentals of sketchbooking with a fountain pen, focusing on line weight, hatching, and form simplification. You’ll learn to break down complex objects into basic shapes and explore value through hatching techniques. Steve emphasizes the importance of experimentation and building line confidence with the permanent medium of ink. By the end of this lesson, you’ll have foundational skills in capturing structure and simple value statements within your sketchbook practice.

This lesson belongs to the course The Practice of Sketchbooking: Ink, Watercolor, and Gouache. In this 6-week course, renowned artist Steve Huston guides you through the essential practice of sketchbooking with ink, watercolor, and gouache. Each week focuses on foundational skills like line work, pen hatching, value, color, and composition through focused studies of figure paintings, master studies, landscapes, and still lifes. Steve’s lessons emphasize technical development and personal interpretation, encouraging you to explore your unique voice through practical exercises. You’ll discover how a simple sketchbook can become a powerful tool to hone your skills and serve as the foundation for future masterpieces. By the end of the course, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to fuel your artistic growth through a consistent sketching habit.

Throughout this course, you’ll have access to the NMA community for feedback and critiques to improve your work as you progress.