Fall means one Thanksgiving, then another. That’s how I experience it here in my international community – Canadian Thanksgiving in October and American Thanksgiving in November. 

I’m glad. I need this reminder to be grateful.

And it was just last fall while looking at Baby Bonsai, that I discovered drawing is my gratefulness practice. (Read the full post: One Thanksgiving, Then Another)

I hope you’ll join me in the wonder of creating, by drawing Baby Bonsai. All you need is a piece of paper and a pencil or two – preferably a lighter pencil for your initial sketch, like an HB (or H is even better), and a 2B or 4B for the darks. I suggest using a 5 x 7 inch paper. It’s a nice size to work with and you can easily frame your drawing.

Step 1: Do a light pencil sketch. Don’t worry about it looking exactly like mine, just try to make interesting shapes and interesting spaces between the shapes. 

Step 2: Start shading the dark parts of the leaves and stems. Wherever the light is not hitting the plant, it’s darker.

Step 3: Keep shading

Step 4: This is a big one. Fill in the light background, or leave it white if you prefer.

Shade the pot and add in the tiny leaves. Suggest the table and the shadow on the table. 

You’re finished! I hope you enjoy your drawing and feel the same gratitude as I did, after completing this At Home Art Class.