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I am frequently asked about what products I use for my pastel work. Below are some product links I use from Amazon for my art supplies that you may be interested in. (*affiliate)   

The Pastel Hangout Newsletter

Welcome to the Pastel Hangout Newsletter!

 

Today, I want to step you through a simple method of drawing your image to your paper using a proportional divider.

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I recently completed a pastel painting named Paint a Woodland Chickadee by using a proportional divider to transfer my image to my pastel paper. Sometimes, I look for shortcuts to draw my image without having to always use a grid method over my reference photo and my art paper. Although it is a great method for providing reference points between your reference and your art surface, it requires a lot of time to divide and draw the segments. So, if you are looking for a shortcut and have some freehand drawing experience, this may be just for you.

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Step 1. Using a tablet to draw from.

I opened my photo reference on my tablet and adjusted the size of the chickadee I wanted on my tablet. I positioned my anchor points on my art paper to be the top and right side of the bird’s head.

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Step 2. Measure segments of the image with a proportional divider

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Step 3. I have measured from the top of the bird’s head to his belly.

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Step 4. Mark the points measured to the art paper.

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Step 5. Use some freehand drawing and check accuracy with divider.

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Step 6. Measure the width of the bird's wing on the tablet and transfer it to your art paper.

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Step 7. Check measurement on your art and continue transferring anchor points of the wings and tail feathers to your art paper. Then, draw and connect the shapes.

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Step 8. Complete the drawing by measuring the length and placement of legs and feet on the branch.

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I enjoy using this method of checking my accuracy as I go because it helps improve my ability to see more accurately without compromising my development of freehand drawing.

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I hope you enjoyed this shortcut on using a proportional divider to check your accuracy. Watch a full video demonstration (part 1) Paint a Woodland Chickadee on my YouTube channel.

This content uses affiliated referral links that may earn a commission.*

Thank you and stay safe and healthy!

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Rita Ginsberg

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