Sketchbook Tour | Greece Adventures Part 2
Welcome to Draw Tip Tuesday!
In October, I returned from a magical adventure in Greece, where I taught a 12-day workshop, hosted by The Blue Walk. I brought along not only my A4 sketchbook (which I showed you last week), but also a smaller, A6 Hahnemühle Nostalgie sketchbook. This tiny sketchbook quickly became my go-to companion for on-the-go sketches, and I loved how it worked for capturing spontaneous moments!
Why a small sketchbook?
When you’re traveling, especially on a packed itinerary, a compact sketchbook can make a big difference. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and lets you create without needing a ton of supplies. An A6 sketchbook fits into a small bag or purse, making it ideal for all those quick sketches during walks, ferry rides, or moments when I was sitting down to dinner (although I didn't mind flipping open my A4 sized sketchbook at tiny restaurant tables either!).
I think a small sketchbook can be powerful because it's more accessible and that can prevent the feeling of overwhelm. It allows you to just draw without overthinking.
All the pages of this little book are filled with memories. One of my favorite drawings came from a rug shop in Athens, called The Loom, where I spent an hour just capturing the cozy, textured scene. Having a small sketchbook made it feel manageable - and really fun.
Every trip, I follow a few simple habits that make my sketchbook feel more personal. On the first page, I draw my contact information (just in case it goes missing!). I also like to stick in little mementos, like business cards or ticket stubs, and I even made a pocket from the sketchbook wrapper to store small collage pieces.
Preparing for class with quick sketches
This sketchbook was also good for practicing before teaching my daily classes on this travel workshop. I’d do quick sketches to warm up and practice the class I would be teaching, so I would feel ready to demonstrate in front of the group. It’s amazing how even a few minutes of sketching can help build confidence, and my A6 sketchbook was perfect for these quick practice rounds to prepare for the class ahead.
I hope today's sketchbook flipthrough inspires you to pick up a smaller sketchbook on your next trip or even just for a day around town!
Assignment
If you need an assignment, grab your sketchbook and go somewhere on location on a mini adventure and draw. I love drawing in a cafe for example; it's a treat, you drink a little something and you draw a little something, and then you are all refreshed and ready to go and go on with the rest of your day.
And if going on location is not available for you, then you can totally do this at home. Draw your feet. Draw your house plants, draw your pet, or a selfie. There's always something to draw. Everything is interesting when you draw it.
Remember, life really is better when you draw it, and sometimes a tiny sketchbook can be all you need.
Want to join one of my travel sketching workshops?
I'm headed to some fantastic locations in 2025, like Portugal, Italy, and Spain. Check out the links below for more details, or join my online classes.
