From Sketchbook to Story Map
From Sketchbook to Story Map
Ever wonder how a Story Map comes to life?
I’m pulling back the curtain to share a behind-the-scenes look at my creative process—where watercolor meets classic books. From the first pencil sketches to the final brushstrokes, every piece begins with a deep love for the stories that shape us.
📗 Click HERE to browse over 40 Story Maps.
A nursery with framed Peter Rabbit Map
Want to know the most important first step?
Well, it’s to read the book!! Or listen to it on Audible while driving. This might be my favorite part of each project. Rereading a classic book is the best way to ease myself into beginning an illustration.
Working hard and listening to Mary Poppins.
While I give myself permission to lay on the couch, sit on the porch or walk my neighborhood while consuming a new book I begin a very long list of important items to include.
My list of items to include for Sound of Music.
Houses, buildings, signs, roads, mountains, rivers, important objects and of course characters.
Next I start sketching where each object makes sense to me. Often the story includes direction, such as one mile north or two hours away and that helps organize the sketch. Some things just can’t fit in, but often I can squeeze everything in the painting!
Sketch of Little Women.
The most difficult part of creating a watercolor Story Map is laying it out on paper. If I don’t love it, I start over. Once this part is complete I trace each pencil line with a waterproof architectural pen.
Finally we get to the magical part: watercolor! This stage is really more like a runway strut or a thank you speech to myself for making it this far. I turn on some music or sit in silence and paint away! Because I enjoy painting trees, hills and landscaping in general I always start here. Next I move on to the sky. With these two large parts complete I have a framework for filling in the rest of the illustration.
Painting Anne of Green Gables in watercolor.
I often let my new painting sit for a day and then come back to take a look. Usually I will add in more shadows or adjust some color.
Painting an entire story is a big job, but I am always willing to do it. Why? Because stories are incredibly powerful. They connect us, awaken memories and help us slow down in life.
A finished and frame watercolor print of Tolkien's Middle Earth Story Map.
Every piece tells a story, and I’m so grateful to share them with you!
Would you like to paint maps too? I've heard from a lot of you! So I made Coloring Pages of Story Maps ready for watercolors, markers or colored pencils. Great for adults to relax and color or share with a child, friend or family member.
Happy reading!
📖 Click HERE to browse over 40 Story Maps
