With this drawing, you will learn how to draw actual boxes in two-point linear perspective.
Set up a still life of at least three boxes. They can be cardboard boxes or other rectangular forms. Create variety in the negative space by having two of the boxes overlap and one a little further back. Turn the boxes to an angle to you, so they are in two-point perspective. Keep the boxes parallel to each other, so they all use the same vanishing point.
Light your arrangement with directional light, so there are interesting shadows and cast shadows.
Orient your 18" x 24" paper to the best direction for your composition.
Use comparative measure to determine and draw the height of the leading edge (the nearest edge of the closest box). You may want to refer to visuals on the imaginary box assignment as needed.
Determine where the horizon line falls. If you measure with your pencil from the top of the leading edge to your eye level you can use that measurement. Add the horizon line.
Determine the vanishing points by holding your ruler on a horizontal and pencil to the angle of the orthogonal lines at the bottom of the box. Draw in the orthogonal lines at the bottom of the box. Note at least one set of orthogonal should lead off of the paper. Make a mental note of where they lead by designating a place in your room. Orthogonal lines headed in the same direction should never cross each other.
Imagine the horizon line extending like a laser beam through the room and the orthogonal extending off of the paper up to the horizon line. These are your vanishing points. Make a mental note and use those points in your room when drawing the remaining orthogonal. Draw in the remaining orthogonal lines.
Determine the depth of the box. You can do this more perceptually, rather than with comparative measure.
Determine the placement of your second box in relation to the first and draw the box as described above. The horizon line and vanishing points remain the same, as long as the boxes are not at different angles to each other.
Draw the third box, take 1/2 way photo, erase orthogonal lines that are not part of your boxes.
Observe the light and shadow and shade with the medium of your choice. Try to make the contour lines disappear as you shade by defining edges with value, rather than line.