Rambles with a Sketchbook

Here’s a list of suggested materials – feel free to bring what you want, bearing in mind that the main thing when you’re on the move is to keep it light and simple!

• A4 and A5 sketchbooks (preferably 150gm weight cartridge paper, stiff-backed) and a few sheets of coloured paper as well
• 2B and 4B pencils
• Eraser
• Craft blade for sharpening pencils
• Pens; nylon-tipped (such as Edding 1800) or nib pen with waterproof ink (cartridge or bottle), or other sketching pen of your own preference
• Bulldog clip or large elastic bands
• Blank slide mount or postcard for view finder

Please feel free to bring any other lightweight materials too, such as other pencils, crayons, pens or watercolours.

For outdoor work, a wide-brimmed hat or a plastic eyeshade, available from sports shops, will eliminate glare and improve your comfort. An umbrella also provides shade, and can protect against a shower! And remember your sun cream!

Bring a cushion or plastic seat pad. Alternatively you may like to bring a light folding chair or small stool (some camping shops sell fairly cheap lightweight folding stools and chairs). Remember that sitting still can make you chillier than you would expect, so bring some extra layers of warm, windproof clothing, a hat and a thin pair of stretchy gloves.

Strong, comfortable footwear with a good tread is essential.

You may like to bring a vacuum flask, which can be filled using the tea and coffee making facilities in your room, for a drink at lunchtime.