Doodling
Transform idle moments into creative expression with spontaneous drawing. Doodling isn't about making perfect art - it's about letting your pen wander freely to create patterns, shapes, and designs. Research shows it improves focus and reduces stress.
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Any pen or pencil($0)
- ●Paper (notebook, printer paper, or scrap)($0)
Optional
- ○Fine-tip drawing pens (various sizes)($5-10)
- ○Colored markers or pencils($5-15)
How To Do It
- 1
Warm up with basic shapes
Draw circles, squares, triangles, spirals, and wavy lines across your page. Don't aim for perfection - let your hand move freely. This loosens up your hand and quiets your inner critic.
- 2
Try simple patterns
Pick a basic shape and repeat it to fill a small area. Try rows of loops, zigzags, , or dots. Stack patterns together or let them overlap. There's no wrong way to do this.
- 3
Draw simple objects
Break down everyday objects into basic shapes. A coffee cup is a rectangle with a curved handle. A flower is a circle with oval petals. Start with the basic shape, then add details.
- 4
Create a doodle composition
Combine patterns and simple drawings on one page. Fill empty spaces with smaller patterns. Let elements connect and overlap. The page should feel full but not cramped.
- 5
Add finishing touches
Go over important lines to make them thicker. Add shading with dots, lines, or . If you have colors, add them last - or keep it black and white for a bold look.
Tips
- →There are no mistakes in doodling. If you don't like something, just draw over it or incorporate it into your design.
- →Common mistake: overthinking. Doodling works best when you don't plan too much - just start drawing and see where it goes.
- →Keep a small notebook and pen with you. Doodle during phone calls, meetings, or while waiting - it actually helps you focus.
- →Use varying line thickness to make your doodles more interesting. Press harder or use different pen sizes.
Communities
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be good at drawing to doodle?
Not at all! Doodling is about spontaneous mark-making, not realistic art. If you can draw circles, lines, and squiggles, you can doodle.
What should I doodle?
Anything! Patterns, shapes, flowers, faces, abstract designs, words - whatever comes to mind. There's no right or wrong subject.
What pen should I use?
Any pen you have works fine. Ballpoint, gel pens, fine-tip markers, or pencils all work. Many doodlers like Micron or Staedtler fine-tip pens.
Why do my doodles look messy?
That's part of the charm! Doodles aren't meant to be perfect. Embrace imperfections - they give your work character. If you want cleaner lines, slow down and use deliberate strokes.
Is doodling good for mental health?
Yes! Research shows doodling reduces stress, improves focus, and can help process emotions. It's a form of active meditation.