Summary
Highlights
Gather necessary tools for the grid technique: a ruler, pencils, a printed image (preferably black and white), sketch paper, and an optional marker.
Use the inch side of a ruler to make a mark every inch along the top and bottom edges of an 8x10 photograph. Repeat this process on the left and right sides to perfectly mark out 10 inches. Ensure marks are made from the edge of the photo, not the paper.
Connect the corresponding marks on the photograph using a ruler and a Sharpie (for clarity in the example) to create an 8x10 grid. Add reference marks (like 'A, B, C' and '1, 2, 3') similar to a battleship grid for easier navigation.
For a 16x20 sketch, create two-inch squares on the sketch paper by marking every two inches along all four edges. If the ruler is short, mark halfway down and connect. Use a pencil instead of a Sharpie as this is the sketch paper, allowing for corrections.
Begin by identifying main outlines on the reference image. Relate features within each square on the photograph to the corresponding larger squares on the sketch paper. Use guidance marks within squares to help guide lines and ensure proper proportions and scale.
For complex or detailed areas, create a 'mini grid' within a single square by drawing a plus sign to subdivide it. This acts as a compass, helping to accurately place small details. These mini grids can be erased once their purpose is served.
Continue filling in details square by square, constantly observing and recording information. Avoid shading at this stage; focus only on accurate line work to prevent slowing down. Maintaining accuracy from the beginning is crucial to avoid a 'domino effect' where early errors impact later parts of the drawing.