How to Start Doodling: A Simple Guide for Beginners

März 4, 2025

Doodling is often seen as mindless scribbling, something done during a meeting or while on the phone. But in reality, learning how to start doodling is a great first step for beginners who want to get into drawing without pressure. It is an easy, fun, and accessible way to explore creativity without needing any prior skills. This guide will walk through everything needed to begin, from basic techniques to creative exercises.

Doodling: More Than Just Random Scribbles

At first glance, doodles might seem like random, messy scribbles—nothing more than chaotic lines. But with time and creativity, those same lines can evolve into intricate and fascinating art.

Take a look at these two images:

The first image is what most people think of when they think of a doodle. In contrast, the second image is one of my own doodles from artmefree. The artwork started without a plan, just letting the pen flow, adding details and depth along the way. This approach is what makes doodling exciting: simple marks on a page can evolve into captivating pieces of art.

Why You Should Start Doodling

Doodling is more than just drawing—it is a way to relax, experiment, and unlock creativity. If you’re a beginner, learning how to start doodling is an easy and stress-free way to get comfortable with drawing. There are no mistakes in doodling, only new creative possibilities.

Here’s why starting to doodle is worth it:

No rules, no pressure – Doodling is about free expression. There is no right or wrong.
Perfect for beginners – Unlike traditional drawing, learning how to start doodling requires no prior experience. It’s an easy entry into creativity.
Stress relief – Doodling is a mindful activity that helps focus the mind and relax.
Boosts creativity – Simple sketches can turn into unique, detailed art pieces.
Easy to start – No expensive materials or advanced skills needed.

How to Get Started – Tools and Mindset for Doodling

There is no need for fancy supplies to start doodling. Thus, here are the basics:

Materials

A black pen (0.1mm – 0.5mm) works well for fine doodling.
A simple notebook or printer paper.
Optional: different pen thicknesses for variety.

Mindset

Let go of perfection – There are no mistakes in doodling, only new creative possibilities.
Start small – Simple lines and patterns are the foundation.
Have fun – Enjoying the process is more important than the result.

How to Start with Simple Doodling Exercises

For those unsure where to begin, here are a few easy exercises to get started:

Warm-Up Lines and Shapes

Draw circles, squares, and wavy lines.
Experiment with cross-hatching and shading.
Fill a page with simple, repetitive patterns.

Turn Random Shapes Into Art

Draw a scribble and turn it into a doodle by adding details.
Let the pen move freely, then refine the lines into something recognizable.

Layer and Expand

Take a simple doodle and add layers—extra lines, shading, and textures.
See how a basic shape can grow into a more complex drawing.

From Simple Doodles to Fascinating Art

Remember the comparison at the beginning? The messy scribble versus the detailed doodle art? This transformation is possible for anyone!

Doodles can evolve into something much more, becoming unique works of art. At artmefree, every drawing begins as a simple, spontaneous doodle. Over time, lines are added, details are refined, and the composition takes on a life of its own.

If you want to see this process in action, take a look at how the artwork „Rupture“ came to life, step by step:
➡ How to Turn Doodles Into Detailed Artwork
For those looking to improve their doodling techniques, this guide covers 10 simple tips to level up your doodles:
➡ Improve Your Drawing Skills and Doodles

For even more inspiration, visit the artmefree gallery to see how spontaneous sketches can develop into stunning, detailed compositions.

Still not Sure How to Start Doodling? Get artemfree’s Free Doodling Workbook

It’s Your Perfect Starting Point!

Want a fun, easy, and structured way to learn how to start doodling? My free „Art of Doodling“ workbook is here to help!

I designed this printable workbook to get you doodling with confidence, whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking for creative inspiration. Inside, you’ll find:

Guided doodling exercises to help you explore different styles
Simple techniques for adding details and making your doodles more interesting
Fun challenges to grow your creativity and artistic confidence

If you’ve ever thought, „I want to start doodling, but I don’t know how“, this workbook is the perfect first step!

Final Thoughts: Just Start

Doodling is about enjoying the creative journey. There is no need to overthink—just start. A simple line can turn into something amazing.

If you’re ready to take the next step, download the free workbook, visit the artmefree gallery for more creative inspiration, and start doodling today!