If you’re new to drawing or have never drawn a cockatoo before, it may seem intimidating at first. However, with a little guidance, anyone can draw a beautiful cockatoo. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, from sketching the basic shapes to adding details and shading. Let’s get started!
Materials You’ll Need:
Before we begin, gather the following materials:
- Pencils (2H, HB and 4B recommended)
- Drawing paper
- Eraser
- Reference image of a cockatoo
Step 1: Sketching the Basic Shapes
Start by drawing a small oval for the head and a larger oval for the body. Then, draw two long, curved lines for the neck.
Tips
- Use light pressure when sketching so you can easily erase any mistakes.
- Don’t worry about making the sketch perfect. It’s just a guideline for the final drawing.
Step 2: Drawing the Beak and Eyes
Now we’ll add the beak. Draw a triangle shape starting from the base of the head and extending outwards. Then, draw the eyes on the sides of the head, using the reference image as a guide.
Tips
- Be careful when drawing the beak, as it’s an important feature of the cockatoo.
- Leave some space between the eyes and beak to avoid overcrowding.
Step 3: Drawing the Feathers
Next, we’ll add the feathers. Start from the top of the head and draw a curved line that follows the shape of the head. Then, draw the feathers on the back and tail of the cockatoo, using the reference image as a guide.
Tips
- Use curvy lines to create the feather shapes and make sure they flow naturally.
- Add some details to the feathers to make them realistic.
Step 4: Adding Details
Now let’s add some more details to the cockatoo. Draw the legs and feet, and add some feathers to them. Then, draw the wings, making sure they’re symmetrical. Finally, add some details to the face, such as the nostrils and eyelashes.
Tips
- Check the proportions of the cockatoo’s body, using the reference image as a guide.
- Use light lines when adding details to avoid making the drawing too dark.
Step 5: Shading
Once you’re happy with the drawing, it’s time to add some shading to give it depth. Shade the areas where the feathers overlap and create some darker areas under the neck and wings.
Tips
- Use a blending tool, such as a tissue or cotton swab, to smooth out the shading and avoid harsh lines.
- Pay attention to the direction of the light source in the reference image when shading.
Step 6: Erasing Guidelines
Now that you’ve shaded the drawing, it’s time to erase the guidelines and light sketch marks using a kneaded eraser or a rubber eraser.
Tips
- Be gentle when erasing to avoid smudging the shading.
- Use a clean eraser to avoid leaving any unwanted marks on the paper.
Step 7: Final Touches
Finally, take some time to add any final details or adjustments to the drawing. You can add some highlights to the eyes or make some changes to the shading to make the drawing pop.
Tips
- Step back and look at the drawing from a distance to get a better view of the overall composition.
- Don’t be afraid to make some last-minute changes to improve the drawing.
FAQs
Q1. How long does it take to draw a cockatoo?
Drawing a cockatoo can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your skill level and how much detail you want to add.
Q2. Can I use other types of pencils for drawing a cockatoo?
Yes, you can use any type of pencils, but we recommend using 2H, HB, and 4B pencils for this particular drawing to achieve a good balance between detail and shading.
Q3. Should I use a stylus for drawing on a digital device?
Yes, a stylus is an excellent tool for digital drawing, as it provides more control and precision compared to using a finger.
Q4. Can I use this technique to draw other birds?
Yes, you can use this technique to draw other birds, but make sure to adjust the details and proportions according to the particular bird you’re drawing.
Q5. What’s the easiest bird to draw for a beginner?
The easiest birds to draw for beginners are simple birds like pigeons, owls, and penguins.
Q6. How can I improve my drawing skills?
To improve your drawing skills, practice regularly, observe real-life objects, and study other artists’ works. Taking online courses or attending art classes can also be helpful.
Conclusion
Drawing a cockatoo can be a rewarding experience, and it’s a great way to improve your drawing skills. By following the step-by-step guide, you can create a beautiful cockatoo drawing that you’ll be proud of. Remember to be patient, take your time, and enjoy the process. Happy drawing!