"Hidamari Sketch" centers around the daily lives of a group of art students residing in the Hidamari Apartments, a dormitory located near Yamabuki High School, a prestigious arts-focused institution. The narrative primarily follows Yuno, a shy and earnest first-year student who moves into the apartments to pursue her passion for drawing. As she adjusts to her new environment, Yuno forms close bonds with her neighbors and classmates, including the energetic and mischievous Miyako, the mature and responsible Hiro, and the quiet yet thoughtful Sae. Together, they navigate the challenges and joys of school life, artistic growth, and personal relationships.

The series unfolds in a slice-of-life format, with each episode presenting vignettes of the characters' everyday experiences. These range from mundane activities like cooking meals and studying for exams to more significant events such as preparing for art exhibitions and celebrating seasonal festivals. The interactions between the characters are lighthearted and often humorous, emphasizing their camaraderie and mutual support. Yuno's journey of self-discovery and artistic development serves as a subtle throughline, as she gradually gains confidence in her abilities and learns to embrace her individuality.

The Hidamari Apartments themselves play a symbolic role, representing a safe and nurturing space where the characters can express themselves freely. The series also explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of creative passions, all while maintaining a gentle, episodic structure. Recurring motifs include the changing seasons, which mirror the characters' personal growth, and the contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary in their lives. Through its focus on the small, meaningful moments of daily life, "Hidamari Sketch" offers a heartfelt portrayal of adolescence and the artistic process.