How to Draw Flying Bird Step by Step Guide

Drawing a flying bird might seem intimidating at first, but with practice, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. In this step-by-step guide, we will cover everything you need to know to create a realistic and impressive drawing of a bird in flight. From sketching basic shapes to adding details and shading, you will learn the techniques to bring your drawing to life.

Materials Required

Before we begin, you will need to gather the following materials:

Pencil
Eraser
Paper

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Sketch the Basic Shapes

Start by sketching the basic shapes of the bird’s body and wings. Use light and simple lines to create an outline of the bird’s shape in flight. Start by sketching a large oval for the body and two smaller ovals for the wings.

Step 2: Add Details to the Body

Now that we have the basic shapes sketched out, it’s time to add more details to the bird’s body. Add a small circle for the head and a triangular beak. Then, draw long and slender legs and toes at the bottom of the bird’s body.

Step 3: Draw the Wing Feathers

The wings are a vital part of the bird’s anatomy, and you should concentrate on drawing them realistically. Start by adding feathers to the wings with long and tapered shapes. Use short, angular strokes to create the feathers’ texture.

Step 4: Draw the Tail Feathers

After finishing the wings, draw the bird’s tail feathers. Add a few feathers at the bottom of the tail, which will act as a base for the rest of the feathers. Then, draw long, thin feathers with tapered tips.

Step 5: Add Details to the Head

With the tail feathers finished, it’s time to work on the bird’s head. Add the eyes with an iris, pupil, and a small white dot. Draw the beak’s curvature by using short, angular strokes to give it texture and depth.

Step 6: Shade the Drawing

It’s time to add shading to add depth and dimension to the drawing. Use a pencil with varying pressure to create different shades of pencil strokes. Add shading to the wings, body, and tail by using short, overlapping strokes to give the feathers a textured look.

Step 7: Add Final Details

Lastly, add final touches to the drawing, such as highlights to the bird’s eyes, reflection to the beak, and dots to feathers. Once you finish adding all the necessary details, use the eraser to remove any stray lines or smudges.

Drawing Techniques

Use reference photos to get an accurate view of bird anatomy.
Start with light and simple lines to create the bird’s form before adding details.
Be patient and take your time with each step.
Use varying pencil pressure when shading to create tone and depth.

Conclusion

Drawing a flying bird requires practice and patience, but with the right techniques and guidance, you can create a realistic and impressive drawing. Remember to start with basic shapes, add details, and finish with shading and final touches. With each step, your drawing will take shape, and soon you’ll have a beautiful drawing to show off.

FAQs

Q1. What type of pencil should I use for bird drawing?

Ans: It’s best to use a set of pencils with varying hardness; however, an HB pencil should suffice for most drawings.

Q2. How do I create depth in my bird drawing?

Ans: Use varying pencil pressure when shading and add overlapping strokes to create texture and depth in your bird’s feathers.

Q3. How do I draw the bird’s wings in flight position?

Ans: Use long and tapered shapes for the feathers and draw the wing position at the top of the bird’s body, usually at a slight angle.

Q4. How do I add shading to my drawing?

Ans: Use a pencil with varying pressure, starting with light strokes and building up layers of darker strokes.

Q5. What is the best approach for beginners to start learning how to draw birds?

Ans: Start with simple bird sketches and use reference photos for guidance. With practice and patience, beginners can create realistic and accurate bird drawings.

Q6. Is it necessary to add texture to the feathers in my drawing?

Ans: Yes, texture is essential to add depth and realism to your bird drawing’s feathers. Use short, overlapping strokes and varying pencil pressure to create texture.