This is Not a Sketchbook, It's an Art Class - Step-by-Step Drawing

Our review of This is Not a Sketchbook, It's an Art Class looks at who will get the most from Lauren Horn's workbook approach and why it stands apart. At its core this book is a guided, workbook-style sketchbook that teaches drawing from fundamentals to more realistic rendering, making it ideal for learners who want structured practice rather than an open blank book. The single biggest reason to buy is the clear, step-by-step instruction that lets preteens through adults practice directly in the pages as they follow along with the artist-educator's method.

Key Features

• Guided workbook format: Built so learners work in the book itself, each exercise encourages active practice rather than passive reading.
• Step-by-step instruction: Lauren Horn breaks complex drawing tasks into simple stages so beginners can progress from stick figures toward realism.
• Accessible teaching style: The approach is written for a wide age range and explains concepts in an easy to understand manner for self-paced learning.
• Practice-focused design: Pages are arranged to let users apply lessons immediately, reinforcing skill development through repetition.
• Artist-educator authorship: Because Lauren Horn is both an artist and teacher, the guidance balances creative insight with classroom-tested instruction.

Who It's For

This is Not a Sketchbook, It's an Art Class is best for beginners and intermediate hobbyists who want a practical, guided way to improve drawing skills without enrolling in formal classes. It suits preteens, teens and adults who prefer learning by doing and who like following clear, progressive exercises.

It is less appropriate for advanced artists seeking technical reference on specialized media or professionals who need large-format sketching space, since the book's focus is instruction and practice rather than being a replacement for a dedicated, archival sketchbook.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, step-by-step lessons make skill building manageable for new artists.
• Workbook layout encourages immediate practice and keeps learning focused.
• Suitable for a broad age range, so families and self-learners can use it together.

Cons

• Not designed as a traditional blank sketchbook, so pages may be less useful for freeform drawing.

Specifications

Title	This is Not a Sketchbook, It's an Art Class
Author	Lauren Horn
Format	Workbook-style sketchbook for practice
Intended audience	Preteens to adults
Teaching style	Step-by-step instruction and guided exercises
Primary use	Learning to draw and practicing in-book exercises

Our Verdict

For anyone starting to learn drawing or looking for a structured, practice-driven resource, Lauren Horn's workbook offers real value; its guided exercises and clear progression turn passive pages into an accessible art class. Those wanting an instructional, hands-on approach will find it a practical investment for steady improvement over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I draw directly in this book?
Yes, the book is designed as a workbook so users are expected to work in the pages while following the lessons.

Who is the target age range?
The primary audience is preteens through adults, making it suitable for young learners and grown hobbyists.

Does it teach advanced techniques?
The focus is on fundamentals and progressive skill building toward realism rather than specialized professional techniques.