Materials You Will Need:
- Pencil
- Paper
- Eraser
- Black markers or pens
- Coloring pencils or pens (Optional)
Step 1: Sketching Basic Shapes
Start by sketching the basic shapes of the king cobra. Begin with the head by drawing an oval shape with a slightly pointed end. Then, draw a curvy S-shape to represent the body. Add another smaller oval shape to the far end of the S-shape to make the tail.
Tip:
- Use light pressure while sketching the shapes so that they can be easily erased later.
Step 2: Drawing the Head
Next, draw the head of the king cobra with more details. Sketch a smaller oval shape inside the first one to create the forehead. Draw two small circles below the forehead to represent the eyes and add small vertical lines at the bottom of the circles that move outwards to create slits for the pupils.
Tip:
- Make sure both eyes are of similar size and shape.
Step 3: Adding the Details to the Body and Tail
Add more details to the S-shape that you drew earlier. Sketch curvy lines above the spine, representing the scales. The upper part of the body will have larger scales, while the scales at the bottom will be smaller. Add more details around the tail by drawing sharp tips to represent the snake’s rattle.
Tip:
- Draw scales in diagonal lines instead of straight lines to give it a more dynamic feel.
Step 4: Erasing Guidelines
Erase the basic shapes that you drew to create space for details. Be careful not to erase any details that you have created.
Tip:
- Erase with a light hand to prevent damage to the paper and avoid making unnecessary marks or creases.
Step 5: Outline with Black Pen
Draw over the details with a black pen to outline the king cobra. Go over the head first, then the body and tail. Use short, swift strokes to draw the scales.
Tip:
- Use a thick point pen for outlining to give it more definition.
Step 6: Adding Shadows and Depth
Add more depth and shadows to your drawing. Use your pencil to shade the areas on the king cobra’s body that should appear darker. Add more lines to the scales to create depth and texture.
Tip:
- When shading, make sure to use a light hand and start with a lighter tone, gradually adding darker tones to create a more natural finish.
Step 7: Coloring the King Cobra (optional)
You can decide to color the king cobra with coloring pencils or pens. You can choose to use realistic colors or be creative by using different colors.
Tip:
- Use a light hand while coloring to avoid tearing the paper or making unnecessary marks. If using markers, avoid running the marker back and forth in the same spot as this can cause the paper to buckle.
Step 8: Finalizing the Drawing
Once satisfied with the drawing, make sure to add any necessary final touches. You can choose to add a background by drawing plants or rocks.
Tip:
- When adding a background, use colors that complement the king cobra to make it stand out even more.
Step 9: Cleaning up the Drawing
Clean up your drawing by erasing any unwanted marks or smudges. Use a clean eraser to get rid of any pencil marks or eraser shavings.
Tip:
- For tricky smudges, try lightly rubbing with a putty eraser.
Step 10: Signing your masterpiece
Finally, sign your name or initials on the drawing to make it official.
Tip:
- Sign your name in a corner making sure it isn’t too noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I have to follow the steps exactly?
You don’t have to follow the steps exactly. Use them as a guide and make adjustments to suit your style.
2. Can I use markers instead of a pen?
Yes, you can use markers instead of a pen. Use a marker with a thick point to give it more definition.
3. Can I use a different type of paper?
Yes, you can use different types of paper. Use a thick paper with a smooth surface to prevent smudging.
4. How can I make sure the proportions are accurate?
To ensure proportions are accurate, make a reference sketch on another piece of paper before starting the actual drawing.
5. Can I skip shading the king cobra?
Yes, you can skip shading, but adding shadows gives the drawing more depth and making it look more realistic.
6. Can I draw a different species of snake using this guide?
Yes, you can draw a different species of snake using this guide. Simply make adjustments to the shape and details to suit the snake species.
Conclusion
Drawing a king cobra may seem daunting, but with our step-by-step guide, it should be a breeze. Remember to start with basic shapes, add details while erasing guidelines, outlne, and shade before finalizing the details. And most importantly, make the drawing your own. Happy drawing!