If you’re a beginner, the idea of drawing can be daunting. How do you even know where to start? With this simple hand drawing guide, we’ll take you through the process step-by-step so you can confidently draw your own sketches.
Materials
To start, you’ll need some basic drawing materials:
- Sketchbook
- Pencils (2B, 4B, 6B)
- Eraser
- Paper stump or tissue
Step 1: Start with Basic Shapes
Begin with basic shapes; circles, rectangles, and triangles. This will help you build the foundation of your drawing before committing to details.
Step 1.1: Circles
Draw a circle using freehand or create a stencil with a compass.
Step 1.2: Rectangles
Draw a rectangle by drawing one line longer than the other and then connecting the remaining two lines to complete the square.
Step 1.3: Triangles
Draw a triangle by drawing two lines leading to a point and connecting the remaining sides to complete the triangle.
Step 2: Sketching the Outline
Next, sketch the outline of the object you want to draw. Don’t worry about details and shading yet; focus on the shape and proportion.
Step 2.1: Explore Your Object
Look at the object you want to draw and study its shape, proportion, and textures.
Step 2.2: Sketch the Main Outlines
Start sketching the main outlines of the object, lightly applying your pencil to your sketchbook.
Step 2.3: Make Changes as Necessary
Check to see if your lines are even and adjust as necessary.
Step 3: Add Details
Once you’ve got the outlines down, it’s time to add details like facial features or foliage.
Step 3.1: Draw Details
Add lines to create facial expressions, clothing folds, or whatever features you want to show.
Step 3.2: Follow the Proportions
Remember to follow the proportion of the object you are drawing. Your facial features, for example, should be proportionate to each other.
Step 4: Shading
Now it’s time to add shading by creating tones and depth to your drawing.
Step 4.1: Determine Your Light Source
Consider where your light source is coming from and add shading accordingly.
Step 4.2: Shade with Hatching and Crosshatching
Hatch shading by creating parallel, uniform lines. Crosshatch by overlapping parallel lines to create a gradient.
Step 5: Blending
Blend lines to create a smooth transition from one shade to another.
Step 5.1: Use a Paper Stump or Tissue
Use a paper stump or tissue to blend your shades together and create a gradient.
Conclusion
Drawing takes practice, but with this simple hand drawing guide, you can start creating sketches with confidence.
FAQs
Q1: What if I’m still struggling to draw basic shapes?
A1: Keep practicing! It takes time to develop and learn new skills. Try tracing shapes until you develop a feel for drawing them.
Q2: What if my proportions look off?
A2: Take a step back and re-assess. Redraw the shape or use guidelines to help ensure accuracy.
Q3: Do I need expensive materials to draw?
A3: Absolutely not. Start with basic materials, work on your skills, and invest in higher-end supplies when you are confident in your abilities.
Q4: How can I improve my shading?
A4: Practice! Use a range of pencils, hatching and crosshatching techniques, and experiment with blending.
Q5: How can I learn to draw hands?
A5: Start with the basic shapes of the hand and then work on individual fingers. Keep practicing this and then move on to shading.
Q6: Can I erase a lot when drawing?
A6: Yes! Use an eraser to make corrections and improve your drawing as you go.