How To Draw Cartoon Characters

Cartoon characters are fun to draw because they are full of personality, and their features are often exaggerated. You don’t need to be a professional artist to draw them—just a pencil, paper, and your imagination. With a few basic steps, you can create your own unique cartoon character. Here is how to draw cartoon characters.

1. Start with a Head Shape

Most cartoon characters begin with a basic head shape. This could be a circle, oval, or even a square depending on the character. Lightly sketch the shape using a pencil so you can easily erase or adjust later.

2. Add Facial Guidelines

Draw a vertical line down the middle of the face and a horizontal line across it. These help you place the eyes, nose, and mouth evenly. The horizontal line is usually where the eyes go, while the nose and mouth are placed below it.

3. Draw the Eyes and Eyebrows

Cartoon eyes are usually large and expressive. Draw two circles or ovals on the horizontal line. You can add tiny circles inside for pupils and make them look in any direction. Eyebrows can show emotion—arched for surprise, angled for anger, or curved for calm.

4. Add the Nose and Mouth

For the nose, a small line, dot, or curve is often enough. The mouth can be wide, small, smiling, frowning, or open. Don’t be afraid to exaggerate it—big smiles or frowns give cartoons a lot of character.

5. Sketch the Ears and Hair

Ears are usually drawn at the sides of the head, level with the eyes. Hair can be simple or wild depending on the character. Use curves or zigzags to show different hair styles—spiky, straight, curly, or messy.

6. Draw the Body

Cartoon bodies are often smaller compared to the head. Start with simple shapes like rectangles or ovals for the body, and add stick-like arms and legs. Then add hands, feet, and clothes. Keep it simple and playful.

7. Add Details and Colour

Once the outline is ready, go over your drawing with a pen or marker. After the ink dries, erase the pencil lines. Colour your character using crayons, coloured pencils, or markers to bring it to life.

Also Read: How To Draw An Airplane