How my birds came to be
I didn't start out as an artist
I've always considered myself creative, but I was never comfortable drawing or painting. Then I discovered Procreate on my iPad. Since 2023 I've been taking online classes, buying Procreate brushes (don't ask how many!), and practicing over and over and over. I'm pretty proud of how far I've come and and am surprised how much help I was able to find. Below are some of the people and products I couldn't have done this without.
Skillshare
For a yearly fee you get access to courses from some of the best Procreate artists. You can learn how to draw, how to use procreate, how to create your own brushes, etc. Everything you need to get started. You can sign up yourself and get a free month to get you started. It's even better now as many of the featured artists offer 1:1 sessions
(image by: Sandra Mejia, Illustrator + Pattern Designer)
Rock Paper Pencil - from Astropad
I didn't enjoy drawing on the iPad at all. Then I found Rock Paper Pencil. This procuct comes with two parts: A magnetic cover for your screen and mutiple tips for your apply pencil. The cover is textures so it feels and sounds more like writing on a drawing surface rather than glass. The early versions were ok, but the tips wore down quickly and I had so many scratches on the cover.. The new version is something I've been using for over eight months now. I have one scratch (my fault) and the initial tip is still going. (image: astropad)
Tessa Pfeifer
Tessa started as a Marine Biologist and now creates children't books. Her how-to guides are amazing and I can't work without many of her brushes.
Brenda Bakker
Brenda was one of the first artists I followed back in 2023 when I started the Agile Aviary. Her sketchy doodling class through Skillshare (see above for the link) is one I've taken multiple times as my skills have grown.
Lisa Glanz
I can't say enough great things about Lisa. Her work is whimsical, her talent is undeniable, and she's created short courses and brushes that anyone can enjoy.
LuMaluje
LuMaluje is someone whose drawings are adorable. She takes you behind the scenes with scenes from her sketchbook, how to draw, and how to paint tutorials, and her brushes contain so many of my go-tos
Nelli Suneli
Her texture brushes are amazing and varied. You can easily find textures to add magic to anything you draw. And her new subscription plan gives you access to all kinds of fun things that will take your art to the next level quickly
New Friends coming soon
