How do you start a drawing?

I start a drawing by choosing my subject first. I look for a subject that not only appeals to me emotionally, but I look at the light, tones, shadows and textures of the subject, which appeals to the artist in me.

I then research my subject and lay the drawing out with pencil. I usually use a soft lead pencil so it will erase easily. To not lay out the drawing would be nothing more than doing a pen and ink sketch.

Pen and ink, as a medium, is not very forgiving. One mistake and you might as well start over. That could be a lot of time wasted, especially if you work to deadlines. I have made mistakes with the ink, but usually the kind I can incorporate into the drawing.

Once I have completed the drawing, I will go back in and erase all pencil lines.