Continuous Line Drawing

A continuous line drawing is created using a single, unbroken line to form an image. While often used as a practice exercise, these drawings can also be finished works of art.

Why Practice Continuous Line Drawing?

• Improves observation and hand-eye coordination: It forces artists to closely study the subject's contours and shapes.
• Quick and effective practice: Simple objects can be drawn in minutes, making this a great warm-up activity.
• Embraces imperfection: The natural flaws in continuous line drawings add character and uniqueness to the artwork.

How to Do It:

1. Choose a simple object.
2. One continuous line: Once you place your pen or pencil on the surface, do not remove it until the drawing is complete. Your goal is to describe the subject with one, singular line.
3. Follow your eyes: Let your hand move at the same speed as your eyes tracing the object.
4. No erasing: Let mistakes become part of the artwork’s charm.

Tip: Experiment with different tools (pens, pencils, markers) and try multiple drawings in one sitting to build confidence and refine your technique!

Activity: Object Drawing (30 minutes)

Materials:

• Sketchbook 
• Pencils, pens, or markers (students can choose)
• Simple objects (fruit, shoes, plants, cups) or reference images.

Instructions:

• Round 1: First Object (10 minutes)

• Choose a simple object (like a plant, shoe, or cup).

• Draw the object using one continuous line — don’t lift your pencil from the paper!

• Focus on the object's contours and try to draw its shape and details with just one line.

• Round 2: Second Object (10 minutes)

• Choose a different object (or switch with a classmate’s object).

• Repeat the continuous line drawing technique with the new object.

• Try to improve accuracy or experiment with line weight and speed.

• Wrap-Up (Reflection & Share — 5 minutes)

• Lay out both drawings and compare them.

• Repeat this for another Round.

1. Which object was easier to draw?
2. Did your second and third drawings improve?