Simple Boredom Busters: Easy Drawings to Draw When Bored

Feeling a bit bored and in need of a creative outlet? You're not alone. Thankfully, there's a simple solution that requires nothing more than a pen and paper: drawing. Simple drawings can be incredibly satisfying and surprisingly engaging. They can help pass the time, stimulate your mind, and even improve your mood. So, let's explore some easy and fun drawing ideas that you can try the next time you find yourself with some downtime.

Before we dive into the drawing ideas, remember that the key to enjoying these activities is to approach them without any expectations or pressure. This is about having fun and expressing yourself, not creating a masterpiece. So, grab your favorite writing instrument and let's get started!

Basic Shapes and Forms

Every drawing starts with basic shapes. Familiarizing yourself with these shapes can help you create a wide variety of drawings. So, let's begin with some shape-based drawing ideas.

Start by practicing drawing simple shapes like circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles. Once you're comfortable with these, try combining them to create more complex forms. For example, you can create a simple house by drawing a rectangle for the body, a triangle for the roof, and a small circle for the door.

Geometric Patterns

Geometric patterns are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to draw. They involve repeating simple shapes in a specific pattern. Start by drawing a simple shape, like a square or a triangle, then copy and paste it in a pattern. You can create intricate designs by varying the size, color, and orientation of the shapes.

For a more challenging pattern, try creating a mandala. Mandalas are intricate, circular designs that often symbolize the universe in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. You can find many mandala drawing tutorials online that start with simple shapes and gradually build up to complex designs.

Zentangle Art

Zentangle is a unique drawing method that involves creating structured patterns using repetitive patterns and shapes. It was developed by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas as a way to relax and focus the mind. Zentangle art is non-representational, meaning it doesn't depict recognizable images, which makes it a great option for those who want to draw but feel intimidated by the idea of creating realistic drawings.

To start Zentangle drawing, you'll need a tile (a small piece of paper), a pen, and a pencil. Draw a border around the tile, then divide the space inside the border into sections. Fill each section with a unique pattern, using a combination of lines, dots, and shapes. The key to Zentangle is to focus on the process rather than the outcome, making it a great stress-relieving activity.

Nature-Inspired Drawings

Nature is a rich source of inspiration for simple drawings. Whether you're drawing from memory or looking at a photograph, nature-inspired drawings can be both relaxing and rewarding.

Start with simple subjects like trees, flowers, or clouds. Break down these subjects into their basic shapes and lines, then practice drawing them. For example, a tree can be simplified into a trunk (a rectangle or a cylinder) and branches (lines and curves).

Trees and Plants

Trees and plants are some of the easiest subjects to draw. They can be simplified into basic shapes and lines, making them perfect for beginners. Start by drawing the trunk, then add branches and leaves. For leaves, you can use simple shapes like ovals or teardrops, or you can try to draw more realistic shapes by observing real leaves.

For a more challenging project, try drawing a forest scene. Start by drawing a horizon line, then add mountains or hills in the background. Draw the trees in the middle ground, varying their size and position to create depth. Finally, add details like grass, flowers, or animals in the foreground.

Landscapes and Skies

Landscapes and skies can be drawn using simple shapes and lines. Start by drawing a horizon line, then add mountains or hills in the background using triangles and rectangles. For the sky, you can use a simple gradient of blue to white to create the illusion of depth. Add clouds by drawing simple, fluffy shapes.

For a more dramatic landscape, try drawing a stormy sky. Use dark blues and greys to create a sense of foreboding, then add lightning bolts and rain clouds. You can also try drawing a sunset or sunrise by using warm colors like orange, red, and yellow to create a beautiful, fiery sky.

Everyday Objects and People

Everyday objects and people can make great subjects for simple drawings. They can help you practice your drawing skills and improve your observation skills.

Start by drawing simple objects like cups, plates, or chairs. Break down these objects into their basic shapes and lines, then practice drawing them. For example, a cup can be simplified into a cylinder with a handle.

Still Life Drawing

Still life drawing involves setting up a scene with objects and drawing them. This can be a great way to practice your drawing skills and improve your observation skills. Start by choosing a simple subject, like a bowl of fruit or a vase of flowers. Arrange the objects in a pleasing way, then start drawing.

When drawing still life, focus on the shapes, lines, and values of the objects. Don't worry about making it look perfect, just focus on capturing the essence of the subject. You can also try drawing from photographs for a more challenging project.

People Drawing

Drawing people can be both challenging and rewarding. Start by drawing simple shapes like spheres and cylinders to represent the head, body, and limbs. Then, add details like clothing, hair, and facial features. You can also try drawing people in action, like running or dancing, to capture the sense of movement.

For a more challenging project, try drawing a crowd scene. Start by drawing a few people in the foreground, then add more people in the background, gradually decreasing their size to create a sense of depth. You can also try drawing people from different angles, like a profile view or a bird's eye view.

Drawing can be a wonderful way to pass the time, express yourself, and improve your skills. Whether you're drawing simple shapes, nature-inspired subjects, or everyday objects, the key is to approach each drawing as a learning experience. So, grab your pen and paper and start exploring the world of simple drawings today!