The above sketch is my dog, Kasey with a Pentel Pocket Brush Pen. Roz at Roz Wound Up from uses one all the time, I think. I became intrigued. So, I included one in my last art supply splurge.
The other sketches are of the cats, Poe and Tigerlily, and two more of Kasey.
I have found the Pentel Pocket Brush Pen to be a fascinating and frustrating new tool. The line variation is just amazing. I am not sure this is reflected in my sketches.
My first mark was a thick black line. I quickly learned that a very light touch is needed to get a thin line. More pressure results in thicker lines. I have spent a lot of time just making marks with this pen. Thin lines, thick lines and lines which go from thick to thin to thick again.
It has taken a lot of practice to get sketches that even resemble the subject. I usually have to sketch in pencil first. I read this hint from Shirley at Paper and Threads . I drew the dog sketches without pencil on a good day. I think maybe the stars were in alignment. ;-)
But, there is something about this pen that makes me want to practice with it everyday. I believe that taming it will make me a better artist. Even if I have to fill up several sketchbooks with lines and simple shapes. I hadn't done any other drawings for a few days. When I went back to my Micron, I felt I was looser and that my drawing skills had improved. This may just be because the Micron responds the way I expect, every time! LOL
I highly recommend this pen. Just be aware that it takes lots of practice. I bought mine from JetPens . Don't forget to load up on cartridge refills!
