Tired of being stuck inside? Grab your sketchbook and head outside! Drawing outside is a great way to relax, explore, and find fresh ideas in nature. You don’t need fancy tools, just your eyes, your hands, and something to draw with.
In this guide, you’ll discover the joy of outdoor sketching. You’ll get easy drawing prompts, tips to make the most of your time outside, and fun ideas for all skill levels.
Why Drawing Outside is So Refreshing
- Nature gives you endless inspiration
- The fresh air boosts your mood and focus
- Sunlight and color help train your eye
- You notice little things you might miss indoors
What to Bring for Outdoor Drawing
- A small sketchbook or notepad
- Pencils or pens (bring a few spares!)
- Colored pencils or markers, if you like color
- A water bottle and sunscreen
- A towel or blanket to sit on
Outdoor Drawing Tips for Beginners
- Choose a quiet, safe spot
- Start with quick sketches
- Don’t worry about perfect lines
- Focus on shapes and light
- Use your finger to smudge shadows
- Try drawing with your non-dominant hand for fun
What to Observe When Drawing Outside
When you’re outside, everything is moving. Clouds drift, leaves flutter, and shadows change. Start by looking at basic shapes: the curve of a branch, the pattern of a leaf, or the outline of a building. Watch how light hits objects and how shadows fall. Pay attention to textures, too. Like the roughness of bark or the smooth surface of a rock. These small details can bring your drawing to life.
Using Photos to Finish Your Drawing
Sometimes you run out of time or the light changes. No worries! Snap a quick photo of your scene so you can finish it later at home. This lets you capture moments and keep the fun going without pressure. Try to also note what colors or sounds stood out so you can add that feeling back into your art later.
Maybe you will need some references to finish your drawing, then you could take a look at 110+ Stunning Tree Drawing References, 50 Stone Wall Drawing References, or look at my other articles with drawing references.
Drawing as a Mindful Outdoor Activity
Drawing outside isn’t just about the art. It’s also about slowing down. Listen to the birds, feel the breeze, and notice how the world moves around you. Take a deep breath and draw what you see, not what you think it should look like. This helps you relax, focus, and enjoy the moment. Art becomes a peaceful break, not a task.
Drawing Ideas: What to Draw Outside
1. Trees and Leaves
Draw a tree trunk, leaf patterns, or a forest scene. Try to show texture with different line strokes.
2. Bugs and Birds
Look for ants, beetles, or birds nearby. Maybe take a Photo and zoom in to draw their shapes or wings.
3. Clouds and Sky
Sketch the cloud shapes above you. Try drawing them at different times of day.
4. Flowers and Grass
Pick one flower or a patch of grass. Notice the little details like petal curves or seed shapes.
5. Buildings and Benches
Urban sketching works too! Try drawing a park bench, streetlamp, or old house.
6. Your Own Shoes
Yes, your feet! It’s a fun way to show your point of view while sitting outside. Don’t forget to add the background.
7. Picnic Food
Sketch your snacks or lunch. Apples, sandwiches, or even a melting ice cream cone.
8. Shadows
Look for shadows on the ground or in your sketchbook. Try to copy the shapes.
9. Water and Rocks
Rivers, ponds, puddles, water is full of movement. Add rocks or ripples.
10. People in the Park
Practice fast sketching by drawing people walking, reading, or playing.
Creative Ideas to Try While Drawing Outside
- Draw the same object in morning and evening light
- Pick one color and use only that
- Make a nature comic strip
- Try drawing while lying down
- Collect leaves and tape them next to your sketch
FAQ: Drawing Outside
What if it’s too hot or cold?
Find shade or a covered spot. Dress for the weather. Or draw from inside while looking out a window.
Do I need to be good at drawing?
No! Drawing outside is about fun and observation, not perfection.
What if people look at me?
Most people are curious or impressed. Just smile. Or wear headphones and enjoy your zone.
Ready to Try Drawing Outside?
Take your pencil, step outside, and start seeing the world in a new way! Drawing outside is simple, calming, and inspiring.
Love these ideas? Follow me on Pinterest for more drawing tips, check out other articles on the blog, or share your favorite outdoor sketch moment in the comments!
