Drawing Books

I get many questions about books and which ones to buy. I find books more informative and inspirational then instructional these days, so here are a few of my favorites that I have used in the past and enjoy. They are staples in my personal library.

 
 
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How to draw - Scott Robertson

“How to Draw” is a collection of detailed tips and information on the fundamentals of drawing forms. It’s a great comprehensive look at the mechanics of drawing, particularly in an industrial design style. Inside you’ll find information on form development, perspective and scene composition.

Great for aspiring concept artists, designers, architects, or if you’re just curious about drawing. It’s a staple in my collection.

 
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How to Render - Scott Robertson

Scott Robertson’s “How to Render” continues and builds on the introduction to visual communication provided in “How to Draw” by focusing on light, surface quality, reflections and dynamics. If you’re looking to level up your skills, this is a great ready by one of the greats!

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Figure drawing - design and invention

I love this drawing book because of how relatable it is for designers and those not trained in the classical arts. I’ve never formally taken figure drawing classes and so this is my go to resource when trying to teach myself a bit about figure drawing.

This is my favorite figure drawing reference book because of how it breaks things down in chunks that are easy to understand.

HIghly recommended!

 
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Sketching, Product Design Presentation

I’ll admit… I’m a bit biased. Some of my own work is featured in this book. “Sketching, Product Design Presentation” showcases examples and process flows from real designers doing real work. What’s great about this book, for me, is that you do get to see a bit of reality – While many designers ut work out there online, it’s nice to have a slice of reality provided by this collection.

 
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Design Sketching

Another great book, “Design Sketching” shows real work and processes from designers and students alike. If you love transportation design, you’ll enjoy this book. There are SEVERAL great examples of sketches and renders you can use for reference.

I find this book less instructional and more inspirational. If you’re looking to

Design sketching was one of the first sketching books I acquired early on and I maintain a copy or two at all times.

 
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Learning Curves

Learning Curves is a great follow-up to Design Sketching, in fact, I also happen to have some work featured here. :-) When I was a college student, I was asked to contribute to the book.

The book is somewhat rare, but for similar reasons to design sketching, I find the book more informative and inspirational than instructional. That being said, if you’re looking for some juice for your sketches, this is a great place to start.

It is rare. At the time of writing, the book is priced at an obscene 899 USD on Amazon.com. I’d suggest searching the internet for a copy, if you can find it.