Your materials: Your most basic requirements will be a drawing pad, a ruler, a few good pencils, a pencil sharpener and - most important of all - a really good eraser. Once you have got the hang of laying down an accurate pencil sketch, you might decide to invest in a drawing pen and Indian ink, and maybe some coloured inks, watercolours and crayons. I recommend that you buy your art supplies and books from your local art shop, where you will not only get good-quality products but also ready advice and guidance on what to buy.

Start with still lifes: The easiest subject for your early efforts will be still-life objects. A vase or anything else you have in your home will do. The most difficult part of learning to draw is getting the proportions and perspective right. A still-life subject will be close at hand, and quite small, so you can measure its proportions with your ruler, and perspective is not likely to be a significant factor. Having measured the various parts, you can correctly lay out a preliminary pencil sketch by transferring the measurements to your drawing pad, using your ruler. When you are happy with your sketch, if you wish you can draw the final shape with a pen and ink, then use your eraser to remove the original outline. In time, you can introduce colour into your artwork.

Landscapes and portraits: If your subject is distant, you can measure the proportions using a pencil or brush handle - or your good old thumb - all held at arm's length. You might go outdoors and try landscape pictures; or find someone who will sit still long enough to let you tackle portraiture.

Specialising: If you already have a hobby, or a special interest, your artwork might well become quite specialised. Whichever format you choose to follow, your local library will be a source of books on art; and joining a local art club, or evening class, will advance your skills.

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