1. Blind Contour Line Drawing
Blind contour drawing means drawing the
outline and surface ridges of the subject
without looking at the paper. The end result
doesn't matter - what is important is carefully
observing the subject.

9. Draw Your Hand!
• Place the pencil near the bottom of the
page, then looking at the edge of the wrist,
begin to follow the line, going very slowly
and steadily.
• Try to make your pencil follow every slight
curve and bump.
• When you get to a crease, follow it in then
back out to the side and carry on.

10. • Capture little details along the way.
• Make the line continuous
• Avoid lifting the pen/pencil from the paper.
• DON'T PEEK!
• If need be, work with your sketchbook
under the table.

11. Blind Contour Line Drawing: Draw your hand
without looking at it in the following
positions:
1. Looking into the palm of your had with at least one finger
bent.
2. Looking at the back of your hand with at least one finger
bent.
3. Making a fist.
4. Making the O.K. sign
5. With your finger pointing
6. With your hand holding objects.
7. In the position of your choice.
Be careful not to draw your hand in an inappropriate
position such as gang signs or “the bird.” Be original!

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2006/January-2-Contour-
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You can also try this exercise with other
objects - leafy plants or furniture. People
and animals can be pretty funny too, and it
is great observational practice.

13. Faces are fun and funny to try!

16. Check-back Contour Line Drawing
Now you are allowed to look.
Continue contour line drawing, but this
time you may look back and forth from
your hand to your paper.
However you should spend 80% of your
drawing time looking at your hand or the
object you are drawing.
Only look at your paper every now then to
stay on track.

24. Check Back Contour Line Drawing:
Draw your hand while
looking at it in the following positions:
1. Looking into the palm of your hand with at least one finger
bent.
2. Looking at the back of your hand with at least one finger
bent.
3. Making a fist.
4. Making the O.K. sign
5. With your finger pointing
6. With your hand holding objects.
7. In the position of your choice. (be careful!)
Remember to keep your eye on your hand more than on your
paper.