Technique: Creating nature-based illustrations

Photo of a pine needle twig

Collect images and objects from nature

I take close-up photos of natural objects and settings, and bring little things home: twigs, rocks, pinecones, and flowers. Next, I study them, treasure them, and draw them! 

Drawing showing four different composition sketches.

Sketch out characters, ideas, and objects

I sketch out many versions of the character and composition and then pick the best one. All the nature sketches from the first step help in planning.

Colour drawing of two pine needles in blue, green, and brown. Stylized illustration.

Put it all together with colour!

During the last step, I play around with various style choices. Outline in black or colour? Loose and sketchy, or slick graphic design? My favourite part is choosing a colour palette!

Drawing in black, white, and pink showing open hands with three chickadees perching on them. Inside hands are a heart and seeds. Drawing shows various stages.

Honest art

All illustrations are from my own hand, heart, and imagination. Kids deserve beautiful pictures by real human artists!