How to Draw Sand
Drawing sand sounds like an impossible feat, but with the right technique, you can capture the ever-changing movement of the beautiful grains in all their granular glory. From a simple beachscape to a dramatic desert dune, sand can make a stunning addition to your artwork. Here are some top tips to help you get started.
Identifying Your Sand
Before you begin, you’ll need to get an understanding of the type of sand you’re working with. Sand comes in all sizes, shapes, and textures, so look closely at the particles you plan to draw and identify the characteristics. Whether you’re working with sandy beach sand, volcanic black sand, course desert sand, or fine sugar sand, you’ll need to tailor your approach to fit the unique silky slope of the individual grains.
Gather Reference Materials
Oftentimes, photographs or videos of sand can be more helpful than simply visualizing what you are about to draw. Head to your favorite beach or dusty desert and snap some pictures or process a video of the sand’s movement to help you understand the way it looks and behaves. You can even set up a series of drawings on a canvas or piece of paper and take pictures of the individual elements to help you put together your own reference library.
Essential Drawing Materials
When it comes to materials, it’s typically best to stick with the basics. Colored pencils, pastels, and charcoal all make great mediums for drawing sand, but if you’re looking for something with a bit more spice, look no further than graphite. Not only does graphite allow you to create depth and texture, but it can also help you capture the subtle shadows and highlights of sand particles.
Draw At Different Angles
To really get a feel for drawing sand, try drawing it from a range of angles. Drawing sand at an angle can exaggerate the texture and shape of the individual grains, allowing you to create an illusion of greater depth, texture, and movement. If you have multiple reference images or pages in your sketchbook, try drawing an identical section of sand at a different angle to give comparison between the two.
Blend and Smudge To Perfect
Once you have the elements of your drawing in place, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Use a colorless blender pencil to soften the edges and create a smooth transition between the particles. You can also use a kneaded eraser to lift the color of the paper and create highlights. Smudging the pencil or pastel with your fingers can also create a great effect. Finally, use a dry brush to gently dust the paper with charcoal and create a light, airy atmosphere for your sand drawing to truly come to life.
