Books by Preston Blair

Learn from a master animator how to bring your cartoons to life through movement with Cartoon Animation with Preston Blair.

Learn the basics of cartoon animation from acclaimed animator Preston Blair with Animation 1!  Join acclaimed cartoon animator Preston Blair as he explains and demonstrates the magic of cartoon animation. Learn to develop a cartoon character’s shape, personality, features, and mannerisms; how to create movements, such as walking, running, skipping, and sneaking; and tips on using lines of action and creating realistic motion. From cartooning basics to more advanced animation techniques, Animation 1 is a welcome introduction for artists ready to bring their drawings to life. Full of step-by-step sketches, tips, and drawing techniques, this is a comprehensive guide that no cartoon animation enthusiast should be without. Subjects covered in Animation 1 are:Tools & MaterialsConstruction of the HeadThe Stretch & Squash PrincipleFacial ExpressionsLine of ActionThe Skeleton FoundationHand ConstructionCharacter ConstructionThe “Pugnacious” CharacterThe “Cute” CharacterThe “Screwball” TypeThe “Goofy” CharacterMovement of Body MassesBirdsTaking FlightThe “Take”Movements of the Two-Legged FigureMovements of the Four-Legged FigureFront & Rear Views of MovementsThe SkipThe SneakThe Walk & The RunDialogue  Designed for beginners, the How to Draw & Paint series offers an easy-to-follow guide that introduces artists to basic tools and materials and includes simple step-by-step lessons for a variety of projects suitable for the aspiring artist. Animation 1 allows artists to widen the scope of their abilities, demonstrating how to animate a character, from character development to movement and dialogue.