Sketching for the Absolute Beginner Paperback – November 30, 2021

A great review of different techniques. I’m looking forward to picking up my pencils and get back into sketching.

I am barely an amateur painter (acrylic & watercolor), and much less than that when it comes to drawing skills. I've read many sketching and drawing books, some with good advice and theory, but NONE which made more sense to me, filled me with enthusiasm and hope and even a smattering of confidence, as this book.It is easy to follow from beginning to end (I just finished the whole thing in one session, and am immediately going to do it again, soaking in the teachings and working on the exercises). The concept of Shapes, Edges, Tones (SET), and the use of lost and found edges rather than outlines just seems to make perfect sense to me.I do very few reviews (books, products or services), but this book is orders of magnitude better than anything I've ever read on this subject, which is very difficult for me. For the very first time I feel like I have a road map to follow, and total confidence that I will have improved my skills by walking down that road.Thank you, sincerely, Peter Cronin, your approach to teaching is absolutely excellent.Robin

This is a fantastic book to read and look through. As a matter of fact, it’s hard to put down. There is some gray wisdom sprinkled in the book too. I just don’t think it’s anywhere near the level for beginners. There’s a lot of art wisdom in here and tips but the how to part is not simplified enough to actually become a proficient artist. He tends to write in a way that’s a bit over your head. I just thought it was a little misleading. But honestly, I can look through this book forever. The art is beautiful. He really is a great sketch artist. But not quite educational, practical enough for my needs. I wish he would explain in more detail how he drew some pieces in language that is more accessible. Explaining your art is tough to do. He does a good job of it but not enough for a reader to say, oh now I get it.

For anyone who wants to improve their sketches for painting or preliminary studies, this is a great addition to your library. Cronin uses his S.E.T. (Shape/Edge/Tone) method to analyze every scene. I substitute Value for his Tone but that is just my preference—either way, the approach is a good habit. He also does a quick outline sketch of the top of the background and works to the midground and foreground from there. Many other books cover these methods as well, but Cronin’s examples and written explanations are clear and direct.

Love this book. Well written, easy to understand. Lots of step by step instructions and examples.

Peter Cronin's book is a straightforward, clear and informative guide to sketching. Becoming good at sketching is up to each individual, but this is an excellent book that will help you to get there. His book removes any mystery from learning to sketch.

For some time now I've been looking for a simple, straightforward, and above all effective book on learning to sketch. This is it! Thank you, Peter Cronin.

good book. lots of detail,,