Study an object, then draw it from memory
Examine a small object carefully, study its shapes and details, then draw it from memory to improve observation and recall skills.
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Step-by-step guide to study an object, then draw it from memory
Step 1
Gather your materials.
Step 2
Choose one small object to study.
Step 3
Place the object on a plain background on your flat surface.
Step 4
Set a timer for 90 seconds.
Step 5
Study the object carefully until the timer rings.
Step 6
Notice the object’s overall shape while you look.
Step 7
Notice the main parts and where they sit on the object.
Step 8
Notice textures colours and any small marks on the object.
Step 9
Hide the object so you cannot see it anymore.
Step 10
Put your paper and pencil in front of you.
Step 11
Draw the object’s outline from memory on the paper.
Step 12
Add the main parts and small details to your drawing.
Step 13
Colour or shade your drawing with your colouring materials.
Step 14
Place the real object beside your drawing compare them and make one improvement.
Step 15
Share your finished drawing on DIY.org
Help!?
If I don't have a plain background, timer, or colouring pencils, what can I substitute?
Use a plain sheet of white paper or a solid-colored towel as the plain background, your phone or a kitchen timer for the 90 seconds, and crayons, markers, or even coloured pens instead of colouring pencils.
I couldn't remember important details after I hid the object—what can I do to improve my drawing?
During the 90-second study step, quietly name the object's main parts, colours, and any marks and lightly sketch the overall shape and main part positions on scrap paper before hiding the object so you can complete the outline from memory.
How can I adapt this activity for younger or older kids?
For younger children use a larger simple object, allow 2–3 minutes for the study step and let them trace the outline, while older kids can shorten the timer to 30–60 seconds, use multiple small objects, or add shading and texture challenges when colouring.
How could we extend or personalize the activity after finishing the first drawing?
After you place the real object beside your drawing and make one improvement as instructed, create a second version adding a background or different medium (watercolour or collage), draw the object from another angle, and then share the finished piece on DIY.org.
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Facts about observational drawing and memory skills
🧠 People can recognize thousands of pictures after seeing them only briefly — our visual memory is surprisingly powerful!
👀 Professional observers (like forensic artists and detectives) train to spot tiny details most people miss.
✏️ The "drawing effect": doodling or sketching something helps you remember it better than just writing it down.
🔎 Experts remember meaningful patterns (chess masters recall real game positions far better than random ones).
⏱️ Short, focused observation sessions — even a minute or two — can noticeably improve what you recall later.
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