Drawing a deer head can seem intimidating, but with some basic knowledge and a few well-placed pencil strokes, you can create a beautiful piece of art. In this step-by-step guide, we will take you through the process of drawing a deer head, from sketching the basic shapes to adding details and shading. So grab your pencil and paper and let’s get started!
Materials Needed
Before we begin, you will need a few basic materials:
- Pencil
- Paper
- Eraser
Optional materials:
- Colored pencils
- Blending tools (tortillon, blending stump, or your fingers)
Step 1: Sketching the Basic Shapes
To start drawing a deer head, we need to sketch out the basic shapes.
- Begin by drawing an oval for the head.
- Draw two smaller ovals on top of the head for the ears.
- Draw a curved line underneath the head for the neck.
- Sketch the main antlers extending above the head.
- Sketch the smaller antlers extending from the sides of the head.
Step 2: Adding Details to the Head
Once you have sketched out the basic shapes, it’s time to add more details to the head.
- Draw two circles for the eyes.
- Add in a small nose by drawing a triangle shape underneath the eyes.
- Sketch out the mouth below the nose, using a curved line.
- Add in more details to the ears by sketching out the inner ear.
Step 3: Sketching the Antlers
The antlers are the most distinctive feature of a deer head, and it’s important to get them just right.
- Using the basic antler shape as a guide, sketch out the details of the antlers, adding curves and lines to create a natural look.
- Repeat this process for all the antlers.
Step 4: Refine and Clean Up Your Sketch
Now that you have sketched out the basic shapes and added in some details, it’s time to refine your sketch and clean it up.
- Erase any stray lines or mistakes.
- Refine any areas that need more detail or shading.
- Darken the lines you want to keep, using a heavier hand to create contrast and depth.
Step 5: Adding Shade and Texture
Shading is what gives your drawing depth and dimension. For a deer head, shading helps create the illusion of fur and can add texture to the antlers.
- Start by shading the areas that would be darker, such as the area around the eyes and the mouth.
- Use a light hand and work in layers to build up the shading, creating depth and texture.
- To create the illusion of fur, use short, quick strokes in the direction of the fur, with lighter strokes on the edges to create a natural blend.
- For the antlers, use a combination of shading and crisp lines to create texture and depth.
Step 6: Adding Color (Optional)
If you choose to add color to your deer head drawing, the process is very similar to adding shading. Use colored pencils or markers to add color in layers, building up the shades and creating texture as you go.
Step 7: Final Details
Finally, add any final details to your drawing, such as highlights in the eyes or the bridge of the nose. Step back and look at your drawing from a distance to make sure it looks balanced and proportional.
Summary
Drawing a deer head is a fun and rewarding experience. Just remember to start with the basic shapes, add in the details and texture, and refine your sketch as you go. With practice, you’ll have a beautiful deer head drawing in no time!
FAQs
Q1: What pencil should I use to draw a deer head?
When sketching the basic shapes, use a light pencil like a 2H or 3H. For shading and details, use a softer pencil like a 2B or 4B.
Q2: How do I know what direction to shade?
Study photos of deer heads to see which direction the fur grows, then use short, quick strokes in that same direction.
Q3: How do I create realistic looking antlers?
Start with the basic antler shape and then add curves and lines to create texture and dimension. Study photos of real antlers for inspiration and reference.
Q4: Can I use a reference photo to help me draw?
Absolutely! Using a reference photo can help you get a better idea of the proportions, shapes, and details of a deer head.
Q5: How do I create highlights in the eyes?
Use a white pencil or eraser to create small, light spots in the pupil and on the edge of the eye. This will give the eyes a more realistic look.
Q6: What if I make a mistake?
No worries! Just use your eraser to correct any mistakes. Remember that mistakes are part of the learning process, so don’t be discouraged if you need to start over or make changes.