Because the file has just been created, there is only one layer: the solid white “Background.” Click the icon at the bottom of the Layers palette that looks like a square with a folded corner to create Layer 1. On the right side of the Photoshop window, below the color palette, is the layers palette. After you’ve made your selections, click OK and a blank canvas will appear. A resolution of at least 300 will ensure that we can print a nice clear copy of our sketch when we’re done. I set my image size to 8 x 8 inches and the resolution at 300 pixels/inch or “dpi”. Open a new file in Photoshop, choosing the options that are right for you. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to Photoshop sketching awesomeness just using the brush tool and the layers palette. The advantages? Digital sketching allows you to create your desired image and experiment with an endless variety of brushes, colors and styles-easily, naturally and without consuming valuable materials.

(Okay, bad example.) But the next-generation of sketching uses a Wacom stylus and tablet and Photoshop instead of the traditional pencil and pad. “Sketch” and “paper” go together like peanut butter and jelly, coffee and cream, and Sonny and Cher.

Square pencil photoshop