Simple Ways to Start Creating Art

June is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and try something new—like making art in the fresh air! You don’t need fancy supplies or years of experience to have fun with outdoor art. Whether you’re sketching with a simple pencil, tracing leaves and flowers, or just playing with colors, this is all about enjoying the process—no pressure, just creativity.

Start with Simple Inspiration

Not sure what to draw? Let nature do the work for you! Look for interesting leaves, flowers, or even tree bark textures. You can trace a flower petal right onto your page, use a leaf as a stamp with watercolor, or sketch the shape of a cloud drifting by. If you're near water, try painting the ripples in a pond or the reflection of trees. Anything goes!

Easy Art Techniques for Beginners

If picking up a pencil or paintbrush feels intimidating, try one of these super simple ways to start:

• Tracing Botanicals – Place a leaf or flower under a thin piece of paper and gently trace over it. You’ll have an instant nature-inspired design to color in!
• Shadow Outlines – On a sunny day, place a leaf, flower, or even your hand on your paper and trace the shadow for a cool, natural shape.
• Splatters & Smudges – Dip a brush in watercolor and flick it onto your page for a fun, abstract background. Then add doodles or words over it!
• Color Swatches – Pick a few colors from nature (sky blue, leafy green, sunset orange) and make simple swatches. It’s a great way to experiment with color mixing.
• Doodle What You See – Start with loose, wiggly lines—maybe a tree, a picnic table, or even your iced coffee cup. It doesn’t have to be perfect!

Pack a Simple Art Kit

No need to carry a ton of supplies—just grab a small sketchbook, a pencil, and a few colored markers or watercolors.If you're using paints, a small brush and a water brush (a pen with water inside) make it easy to paint anywhere. Bring a comfy blanket or chair, a bottle of water, and some snacks (because creativity works up an appetite!).

Make It Fun & Relaxing

The best part of outdoor art? There are no rules! Play around, make a mess, and don’t worry about the final result. Turn on some music, invite a friend, or just enjoy the quiet of nature while you create. If you’re really stuck, set a timer for 5 minutes and just doodle whatever comes to mind—you’ll be surprised at what appears!

Bring Your Art Home

Once your outdoor session is done, don’t let your art get lost in a sketchbook! You can:

• Cut out your favorite pieces and tape them into a journal.
• Use pressed flowers or leaves to make a nature collage.
• Write a few words (like a date, location, or memory) next to your sketches to turn them into a creative travel journal or greeting card.

So grab your sketchbook, step outside, and let creativity find you this month! Where will your art adventure take you?

P.S. Looking for art prints and gifts inspired by nature? Check out my latest collection—perfect for celebrating the season!