1)

Draw all the time. This is probably the most important one. You'll never get better at it unless you do it a lot, and it stands to reason that the more you do it, the faster you'll improve. So keep a sketchbook or some paper, along with your drawing implement of choice In your car, in your purse or man-satchel, at your girlfriend's/boyfriends house, in your sock drawer, under your couch — everywhere. Draw while watching TV, while taking notes in class, while eating dinner. Make it so that you don't feel right unless you're drawing.

2)

Draw from life. The second most important one. I know it can be boring, but you will see the results. All the drawing in the world can't help you if you aren't learning anything from it, and there's no better teacher than the world around you. Don't make the mistake of being too selective in what you choose to draw; anything is a suitable subject. Look to your left (or your right, or up or down). What do you see? Doesn't matter — draw it. Draw people, places, things, and whatever else isn't covered by those.

3)

Learn to accept criticism. Don't be offended when someone tells you your drawings suck, and don't become complacent when someone tells you they're awesome. Criticism is the best learning tool you can use, if you know how to use it. Understand, though, that some sources are more qualified than others to criticize. Professional artists and teachers, for example, can give you more valuable criticism than your friends or relatives will. Using criticism to your advantage means identifying the best sources of it and seeking it out. It may sometimes feel like you're being a glutton for punishment, but trust me, it's worth it.

4)

Be content with your progress. Michelangelo wasn't born ready to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling, and neither will you become the best artist you can be in a day or a week or even several years. In fact, you will never be as good as you want to be, but don't get frustrated with yourself because of it, Even tho it's all to easy to. That's what'll keep you trying to improve, which is a good thing. Be content with yourself, and remember that if you keep at it, you'll eventually get past whatever's currently got you frustrated. When you get in a rut, take a look at some old drawings of yours. Look at how much better you are now, and think about what it'll be like a month or a year down the road to look at a drawing you did today. It's coming — be patient lol.

5)

DRAW DRAW DRAW!!!

And have fun people

Let us know how your getting on.

-jade.