I actually just ordered the book and picked up those markers at my local art store ;) I'm pretty excited to learn more about different rendering techniques. Is it weird that I've always found sketches more interesting than the final pieces of art/design?

I went to school for New Media Design, which is what I've done ever since, but when I enrolled the program was in a "guinea pig" stage. They didn't have very good foundation art classes at the time, so I've felt lacking in that department. Hopefully some solid technique books and perseverance will improve my sketching ability, though.

Thanks again for the tips!