Drawing Barista

On weekend nights, I like to draw because it helps me relax and focus on what I want to express. I don’t have to worry about deadlines or what anyone thinks. Drawing lets me release stress and gives me a creative break. I often sketch people I see at my favorite coffee shops, and sometimes I invent my own characters.

These relaxed drawing sessions get me thinking about colors, textures, and styles I want to use for the people I draw. They also give me the freedom to create something that makes me smile when I look back at it.

Here is one of our favorite baristas, Grace. She's a charming presence on Saturdays, always remembering my favorite dishes—like a warm breakfast burrito or a flaky egg sandwich croissant, perfectly paired with a medium soy latte. I drew her with eyes gently closed, hoping to capture the warmth and gentle kindness she brings with every cup.

.*Materials I used for this journaling:

• Photo of our favorite barista I took.

• Watercolor set from Sakura Color.

• Watercolor sketchbooks feature 100% cotton, 200gsm cold-press paper.

• Cutouts from the magazines.

• Graphic tapes.

• Soft-type color pencils to draw the pancake for retouch.

• Background music

• Soy latte and waffle

Sometimes, I like to talk about my weekend drawing sessions instead of journaling. Both activities are connected, and each one is important for my creative process.

My style of drawing:

• Inspiration and References: If I am not drawing my friends but drawing imaginative people, I sometimes gather photos that inspire me to start drawing. Look for images that spark your creativity can serve as helpful references.

• No-Prep Setup: I usually don't prepare much—just grab a scrap of paper and start drawing roughly. When I'm ready to paint, I trace my sketches onto another sheet.

• Draw big: I try drawing on larger paper. This lets me step back to check the proportions and add details.