In this chapter, I invite you to explore the joy of drawing with the children in your life through a step-by-step workshop designed by the talented Graham Braddock. As we embark on this artistic journey, we'll start by drawing a small square in the middle of your page. This simple step is crucial as it helps us find the center point for our drawing. By adding a light vertical line through the middle of the square, we establish the vertical alignment, and a light horizontal line provides the horizontal guide. These lines intersect at a small mark, which becomes the center of our subject, whether it's a playful kitten or another delightful figure. This approach not only aids in positioning the subject accurately but also builds a strong foundation for the entire drawing. I believe that by mastering these fundamentals, you'll unlock a rewarding creative process that brings immense satisfaction and joy, both for you and the young artists you inspire.
This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.
Create the fur texture by drawing small, furry lines. Focus on varying the direction and length to mimic the natural flow of fur. Press harder for darker areas and keep lighter areas soft and sparse.
Define Light and Shadow
Identify the light and dark areas on the animal. On the darker side, use more lines and press harder to create a shadow effect. On the lighter side, use fewer lines to suggest light reflecting off the fur.
Shape the Fur
Adjust the shape of the fur by extending lines outward, especially around the neck and back. Ensure the lines stick outwards to give a fluffy appearance. Pay attention to areas where the fur curves or changes direction.
Detail the Limbs
Add small lines to define the kitten's toes and legs. Make sure the toes are slightly higher or lower to show perspective. Use short, outward strokes for the fur on the legs and toes.
Emphasize the Tail
Draw the kitten's tail with upward strokes to emphasize the fluffiness. As the tail curves, adjust the direction of the lines to follow the curve, adding more lines for a fuller appearance.
Pro tipPress harder for darker fur areas to create a strong shadow effect.
Embark on your drawing journey by setting up a structured framework on your page. Begin with a small square to find the center, and use light vertical and horizontal lines to guide your drawing's alignment. This foundational step ensures your subject, like a kitten, is positioned accurately and proportionately.
As you move forward, focus on capturing the kitten's overall body shape and proportions. Use the head height as a unit of measurement to maintain accurate proportions, and sketch the body, head, and ears with attention to their angles and shapes. Lightly draw the kitten's features, ensuring the head is circular and the ears are slightly wider than the head.
Bring your drawing to life by adding texture and details. Use small, furry lines to create the appearance of fur, and vary the pressure of your pencil to distinguish between light and dark areas. Add shadows and reflections to enhance depth and realism, and don't forget to include sparkles in the eyes for a lively touch. With these techniques, your drawing will capture the essence of the kitten in a dynamic and engaging way.
Points to remember
Use light lines to divide the page for easy adjustments.
Position elements using your fingers as a guide.
Capture the overall shape of the body to guide the drawing.
Use head height as a unit to gauge proportions.
Ensure the top of the ears follows the reference line angle.
Keep lines light for easy adjustments of features.
Press harder for darker fur areas to create shadows.
Use the side of the pencil for soft shadows and the point for details.
