Feeling too busy for art? Try this FUN EASY exercise!

Another simple mind-calming small-art creative self-care art prompt for you this week. All you need is a pen, a marker, and a pencil… or just one of those, or maybe trade out one for a crayon. Hmmm, however you decide to try this dot, line, and pattern project, have fun!

Welcome to BETTER WITH ART! I’m Melinda and I’m here to encourage you to reclaim your creativity and practice creative self-care with weekly small-art prompts that can be done in the privacy of an art journal or on paper if you don’t have one. If you’re looking for one that would be ideal for my simple form of art journaling that includes use of dry, wet, and layered media, scroll below the video.

Getting started

We begin by placing dots in the corners of your paper. Now, instead of drawing straight lines, let’s go a little wavy to form our frame. Think of your lines as gentle waves, bringing a sense of calm and flow. Remember, there’s no right or wrong here—let your hand guide you.

It’s difficult to explain the rest without visuals, so check out this week’s prompt in the video below.

Why I Love My Art Journal

Art journals (or even a simple folder) are fantastic for storing your creations. They offer a private space where you can experiment fearlessly and embrace the joy of making art purely for yourself.

The Healing Power of Art

Making art isn’t just a hobby; it’s a vital part of staying balanced and content. In my journey through “The 100 Day Project” and “The 52-Week Art Journal Journey,” I’ve found that dedicating time to creativity makes a huge difference. So, let’s make art a regular part of our lives!

Let’s Create Together!

Whether you have five minutes or a whole afternoon, diving into a project with dots, lines, and shadows is a perfect way to practice self-care. Remember, it’s not just about the final piece; it’s about getting lost in the process.

Thank you for joining me! Embrace your creativity, relax into the process, and have fun.

Because we’re BETTER WITH ART.

Materials

I was sad, and frustrated, to find out the art journal I’ve been recommending from the beginning and using for the art journaling groups at the library where I work is not only no longer available on Amazon, it looks like the company is done. I’m trying to figure out the best way to deal with this.

For my simple form of art journaling with dry, wet, and layered applications, the paper is important. It needs to be heavy-weight and smooth. Hot-press if it’s watercolor or some heavier mixed-media paper, because although I love the texture of cold-press it’s really hard on markers and pens. The mixed-media art journal I’ve used in my videos and the art journaling groups at the library where I work is 140lb/300gsm.

For now I’m trying out the following journals and papers in my search for the next best value for the money:

Great pocket-size journal with paper that has held up amazingly well to heavy Sharpie coloring:
Arrtx Watercolor Sketchbook 2-pack

Next to try in a video:
LIGHTWISH Watercolor Sketchbook
LIGHTWISH Watercolor Paper Bulk 2-pack

Just received and so SMOOTH! Looking forward to trying:
Speedball Art Products Fluid 100 Artist Watercolor 4 x 6 inch Block

I’ve found several inexpensive waterproof black pens that work well, and go on sale at different times on Amazon.
I used the 0.8 size of the ArtBeek water-based water resistant pigment liner set.

Amazon Basics Fine Tip Point Permanent Markers Assorted Colors, 24 Pack

If you use any of my Amazon product links and make a qualifying purchase, I will, at no cost to you, earn a commission, a convenient way you can support my channel with your purchase. So thanks if you do!

You can check out more of my favorite art supplies available on Amazon by visiting my slowly growing storefront.