Starting art is sometimes the biggest barrier to creating. How do you make time, what do you need, and what do you make? It’s okay to have questions (and feel a little unsure) – we’ve all been there!

Let’s make starting feel easy so you can create without overthinking. 

1. Start small (really small)

You don’t need an art studio, full-on kit, or hours of free time to begin. In fact, starting small is what makes it stick.

Pick one simple thing, like a sketchbook and a pencil, a basic paint set, or even just a pen and paper. That’s enough. The goal isn’t to create something impressive, it’s to get comfortable putting something down on the page.

Starting small lowers the feeling of pressure and helps you keep coming back.

2. Find a creative space that works for you

You don’t need a dedicated art room. Most people don’t have one! Instead, think about where you already spend time. That might be the kitchen table, a quiet corner of the lounge, even a spot outside in the sunshine. If it’s easy to set up and pack away, you’re much more likely to seek it out.

A small setup that’s ready to go (a container with pencils and a book will do) makes it easier start, stop, and pick it up again without overthinking it.

3. Give yourself a loose ‘art routine’

You don’t need a strict schedule, but having a rough rhythm helps. This not only makes creating a priority, but also helps your brain get used to unwinding with art.

A few timeframes that might work for you include:

-     10 minutes after dinner 3 nights a week

-     A quiet half hour painting every weekend  

-     A quick sketch on your lunch break

It doesn’t have to be every day… it just needs to be something you can realistically stick to. Consistency matters more than how long you spend making.

4. Make regular art something to look forward to

Art doesn’t have to be another thing on your to-do list. It can be the thing that helps you switch off. Even a short creative session can quiet your mind, especially after a busy day. There’s something calming about focusing on colour, shape, or simple repetition.

I’m sure we’ve all doodled while on a long phone call. The same way that helps you pass the time, focus your mind, and feel more at ease, committing to art a little outside of work can create space for your brain to unwind.

Put on music, find a comfy spot, and treat it as a small break rather than a task to complete.

5. Get someone else involved

Starting something new is always easier when you’re not doing it alone. Look for people in your life who you see or speak to frequently and start the journey together! Maybe a friend who wants to try art too, a partner who wants to relax together, or kids who are looking for something to do after school.

You don’t need to be working on the same project, just having someone else there can be motivating and comforting. Showing each other what you make can also give you a little nudge to actually sit down and start!

6. Don’t worry about being “good”

This is the one that trips people up the most. It’s hard to really make yourself believe it, but you don’t need to be good at art to start. You just need to start (sounds simple, we know). The first few attempts are probably going to feel a little awkward or not quite how you imagined, and that’s completely normal. It just shows you’re trying something new, which is impressive on its own.

Just trust us when we say, the more you do it, the more natural it feels.

A small setup, a bit of time, and a willingness to try is all you really need to start a creative habit. Over time, those small moments add up, and before you know it, art becomes part of your routine.

If you do make something, send us a pic! Just tag us on Instagram or Facebook @montmarteart or use #montmarteart to show us what you create.

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