Sometimes a blank sketchbook page can feel overwhelming. You want to draw, but you're not sure what to start with — or you overthink every...
hand-drawn doodle art.
hand-drawn doodle art.
These sketchbook ideas are made to help you stop overthinking. Instead of trying to make “good” art, they help you enjoy the process. That’s when creativity flows naturally.
These ideas are great for:
Beginners who don’t know what to draw
Anyone who feels stuck or out of ideas
People who want a relaxing way to be creative
All you need is a pen, a notebook, and a few quiet minutes.
Pick one shape — like circles or triangles — and draw it over and over. Try placing them in lines, waves, or random spots. This is a great way to fill a page and relax.
Choose something small and fun, like mushrooms, stars, or leaves. Then draw it in neat rows across the page. You’ll be surprised how calming it feels.
Pick something simple to draw — like a cup or a plant — and try drawing it without lifting your pen. Just let the line keep going.
Start with a loose scribble. Then look for shapes inside it — maybe a leaf, a face, or something totally random — and add to it.
Try drawing with your non-dominant hand. It might look messy, but that’s okay. It helps you let go and just enjoy the process.
Draw curvy lines or sharp angles to make cool abstract shapes. Don’t think too hard — just keep the pen moving.
Look out your window or use a photo of a leaf, tree, or flower. Do a simple, loose sketch to capture the shape and feel.
Put on music and let the sounds inspire your lines. Try drawing waves, dots, or shapes that match the beat or mood.
Pick a simple object — like a flower or a cloud — and draw it lots of different ways. Change the size, shape, or details.
Write a word like “cozy” or “autumn” in the middle of the page. Then doodle small drawings around it that match the word — like socks, leaves, or mugs.
Instead of using the whole page, fill just one corner with tiny doodles. It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy the details.
Write a short quote or phrase you like. Then draw little doodles around it that go with the message. It’s a creative way to mix words and art.
Think about how you’re feeling and turn it into a drawing. You don’t need to show a real object — just use lines and shapes to express the mood.
Use thin lines to draw leaves, branches, or flowers. Try not to erase or redraw — just let the shapes appear naturally.
If you want more sketchbook ideas, check out the free Art of Doodling workbook in the freebie section. It has easy prompts, patterns, and tips to help you keep going — without pressure.
It’s normal to feel stuck sometimes. If you’re not sure what to draw, try one of these:
Draw the same shape over and over
Trace your hand and fill it with doodles
Set a 3-minute timer and draw anything that comes to mind
Close your eyes, make a scribble, then turn it into something
Most of the time, you just need to start — and the ideas will follow.
If you’re looking for more ideas or want a little extra guidance, the Art of Doodling workbook is a great place to begin. It’s perfect for beginners and also fun for anyone who wants to add new energy to their sketchbook.
Inside, you’ll find:
Pattern ideas and drawing prompts
Easy exercises to get into creative flow
Ways to turn small doodles into full pages
Tips to help you draw more often, with less pressure
You can download it anytime from the freebie section. It’s a great tool for keeping your creativity going.
These sketchbook ideas are a simple way to keep drawing, even when you don’t feel inspired. They take away the pressure to be perfect and help you focus on enjoying the act of drawing.
So grab a pen, pick one idea, and start filling your pages.
Save this post on Pinterest for later.
Visit the artmefree gallery for more simple art ideas.
And check out the artmefree shop for creative prints and gifts.
