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Unlocking Precision with the Classic Grid Method (Patreon)

Published:
2024-09-22 22:37:27
Edited:
2026-02-05 01:58:35
Imported:
2026-10

Content

Use the classic grid method to improve accuracy and proportions in your drawings. Watch step-by-step.

Hi everyone!

Today, I’m sharing a quick video on a timeless drawing technique - the Grid Method. 🎨 This method has been around for centuries and is often used by artists to ensure accuracy in their work. While it’s not new, it's still one of the best tools for improving proportion and detail in your drawings.

In this video, I’ll walk you through how to apply the grid method step by step. It’s a fantastic way to break down more complex subjects and make them easier to tackle, especially when working on detailed watercolour paintings. Even if you’ve heard of or used this technique before, it’s a helpful reminder of how powerful it can be.

Why Use the Grid Method?

Proven and reliable: An old-school method that’s stood the test of time for good reason.

Improves precision: Perfect for getting proportions spot on, especially with tricky subjects.

Great for all levels: Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve, this method can help boost your drawing confidence.

For further information about this method - I have a blog post here: https://www.louisedemasi.com/tips/2024/9/12/how-to-transfer-sketches-using-the-grid-method

Give it a try and let me know how it works for you! I used it a lot when I was younger. If you're using this technique in your watercolours, I’d love to see your progress and hear about your experience in the comments.

Enjoy the video and happy painting!

Louise 🌿

Files

The Grid System

Louise De Masi© 2024

Comments

Diane Hansen

I was a landscape graphite artist before picking up watercolor. I have been using the grid system for years and would not consider doing a large landscape without it. It's a great tool for an artist in any medium and a must for those who struggle with drawing.

Annelies Degenkamp

I use the grid methode for years for drawing and I have learned a lot of it. But I never used it before painting. Probably I will try and use the tracing methode then. Thank you Louise for this video ❤️

Renae C Cardinal

I just retired and I’m beginning to watercolor. I learn so much from you in every video you make. Thank you!

Joy Wright

This is great Louise, thanks!!

Jane Talbot

Thank you Louise. This is fabulous. I have been wanting to use this method but wasn’t sure how. I’m definitely going to give it a go now I know how. 😊

Linda Chiles

Thank you for this I'm new to drawing and painting so it will be a great help

Basia

Great video...Thank you Louise🤗, I hope you do more on drawing. especially how to scale up to size.....As the seasons change and it gets colder, I do not paint so much in the winter, but turn to drawing during this time.....I have noticed practicing drawing really helps to improve my paintings, as it really does teach you to "see"!....What to leave in, what to leave out....which minimal shapes are absolutely necessary for the viewer to comprehend the subject & what is just me fussing with colours or the nature of watercolour paint but does not add anything to the comprehension of the painting to the viewer.. . .!

Louise De Masi

Thank you so much Basia! 😊 I’m really glad you enjoyed the video. I completely agree—drawing is such a powerful way to improve your painting skills, and it really does help train your eye to see what’s important. I love how you put it - figuring out what to leave in and what to leave out is such a key part of the creative process.

Elaine

Thank you Louise 😍

Machelle Flanigan

Hi when using transfer paper, i use black ink as you did in video. However once i place shading on the back … i cant see the details of black pen to trace onto water colour! Am i doing something wrong ?

Louise De Masi

Hi Michelle- Let me see if I am understanding you correctly - You used tracing paper and you drew with blank ink onto the tracing paper. Then you scribbled graphite on the back of the tracing paper- and now you can't see the black lines? If I'm correct in my understanding perhaps you have scribbled the graphite too dark on the back of the tracing paper. When I scribble graphite on the back of the tracing paper I can still see the pen lines (when I place it against the surface of the watercolour paper) so I'm not sure why you can't. Have you tried using transfer paper instead of scribbling on the back with graphite?

Louise De Masi

Ok- try using a slightly thicker black pen and place the graphite side against the watercolour paper - the white of the paper should allow you to see the black pen line.

Machelle Flanigan

Id say im doing it way too dark as i defiantly cannot see my lines. Yes its transfer paper i was using. K

Vicky

Hi Louise, I followed the grid method. For an A3 paper, I counted the width, which is 10 squares. However when I counted the length of the A3 paper, it is 14 squares. As in my A4 printed paper, the length is 15 squares. I appreciate your help. Thank you.

Louise De Masi

Hi Vicky, Dom here. I'm not sure I understand what you're asking. Can you elaborate?

Vicky

Hi Louise. Thank you for your reply on Sunday. I counted the numbers on the A4 size paper across the width, there are 10 Squares (there are also ten squares across the width on the A3 paper; however, when I counted the length for the A4 paper, there are 15 squares from the top to the bottom of the paper on the left-hand corner and 14 squares on the right-hand corner of the paper, also from the top to the bottom of the paper. I did not get the same number of squares for my A3 paper as my A4 paper for the length on both sides. There are 14 squares on the left-hand side, and there are 13 squares on the right-hand side. Now I just confuse myself. I will try to draw them again. Thank you.

Kasia Amparano

Dear Dom: I am new to your group. You have changed my life by telling me about the Grid, Wow!!! Thank you, Kasia

Kasia Amparano

PS, hope you're feeling better. I am taking your classes with relish. Cheers, Kasia

Karen

Hi are there tutorials available for the Kangaroo, Kookaburra and Koala on your homepage header?

Louise De Masi

Hi Karen, no there aren't I'm sorry. I painted them for my daughter's nursery. I plan to paint the kookaburra again - with feet- for a tutorial though.

Gail McDaniel

I tried the grid system today on a template I downloaded. I definitely need to try it again because I got very frustrated trying to draw from it. I’m sure I just need more practice. But I love all your videos and watch at least two or three each evening. I hope to be able to paint in your style. I’m a newbie at age 72 so which me luck and patience. Thank you for all the inspiration. Gail McDaniel, Bloomington, Indiana USA

Louise De Masi

Thanks so much, Gail! The grid system can be difficult at first, but it does get easier with practice I promise! I’m so glad you’re enjoying the videos.