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| 1/28/26 photo reference (Derwent Drawing pencil in Zeta sketchbook) |
Wanting to finish up that old Stillman & Birn Beta
sketchbook, which has a substantial tooth, I had been making my comfy, monochrome sketches in it. Although toothy paper is not usually recommended
with soft colored pencils, I like it – the visible tooth imparts a rougher,
unpolished look.
I had been thinking, though, how dreamy Derwent Drawing pencils would feel on smooth paper. After the Beta book was full, I pulled out a Stillman & Birn Zeta book, and holy-moly, my comfy, old robe grew a fleece lining! Not only did these sketches prevent me from doomscrolling; they quietly lulled me toward bedtime with their soothing comfort. I mean, seriously: Is there anything so relaxing as a soft pencil on smooth paper?
During these difficult times, when we’re bombarded with upsetting news daily, it’s reassuring to know that self-care can come from a colored pencil.
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| 1/29/26 photo reference (two Drawing pencils used in this one) |


Love these simple sketches, they are so calming to look at. I need something to stop doomscrolling too. I haven’t sketched in probably a year, do you have any idea’s on how to restart? Might be a great way for me to calm down at night! Thanks for your wonderful blog Tina.
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