Nature Journaling with Red and Blue Pencils

Why do science Illustrators perfer this method?

Start with red pencil to sketch, make mistakes and figure things out.

Got back in with blue to add details and develop the tones (light to dark) of your drawing.

Creating a clover illustration using the red and blue pencil method.

This strategy helps you to stay loose as you figure out your drawing.

Other tips:

Pick one part of a plant and start with that, so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Count the petals, leaves and detailed markings of the plant.

Look for spiraling forms. Many trees and plants grow in spirals.

Enjoy!