If you’re a beginner in drawing and fond of birds, toucans are an excellent place to start! These South American birds’ bright-colored beaks are distinct and should make the perfect addition to your artwork. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a toucan drawing.
Supplies Required
Before starting, make sure you have some essential drawing supplies:
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Pen or ink liner
- Watercolors or colored pencils
- Watercolor paper or sketch pad
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Reference Image
The first step in creating any artwork is to decide on a reference image. You can look up toucan pictures on the internet for some inspiration.
Step 2: Sketching Basic Shapes
Sketch an oval shape for the toucan’s body and a large circle for its head. Add a small triangular shape for the beak and two thin and long shapes for the tail.
Step 3: Beak and Eyes
Draw the toucan’s beak as a long, thin triangular shape. Add two small circles for the eyes.
Step 4: Feathers and Details
Sketch the outline of the toucan’s body feathers and color the eyes black for a complete look. Add more details to the beak and tail feathers.
Step 5: Outlining with Pen or Ink Liner
Go over your pencil lines with a pen or ink liner and let the ink dry completely.
Step 6: Adding Colors
Use watercolors or colored pencils to fill in the toucan’s feathers and beak. You might want to use bright colors for the beak to make it stand out.
Step 7: Shading and Texture
Add some shading to create a more realistic look and avoid making the drawing appear flat. To add texture to the feathers, use small lines with a pencil or colored pencil.
Step 8: Final Touches
Add final touches such as small details and highlights to make the toucan drawing stand out. Use white paint or pastels to create highlights.
Step 9: Erasing Guidelines and Final Look
Erase any unnecessary guidelines to bring out the final look of your drawing.
Toucan Drawing Tips and Techniques
Tip 1: Start Simple
Begin by drawing the basic shapes and adding detail later. This will make the process manageable and less overwhelming.
Tip 2: Use Reference Images
Using reference images will aid in creating a more accurate drawing.
Tip 3: Work in Layers
Work in layers to build up color and texture as opposed to one flat image.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use markers instead of colored pencils or watercolors?
Yes, you can use markers; however, be careful not to damage the paper and bleed the marker ink.
Is it necessary to outline my drawing with ink liner?
No, outlining with a pen is optional but useful for creating clean, sharp lines.
Can I use regular printer paper for drawing?
Yes, you can, but it’s better to use watercolor paper or sketch pads for a more professional look.
What if I make a mistake?
Use your eraser and start over. Or, consider embracing the mistake; after all, no two toucans have the exact same features!
How can I make the toucan’s beak brighter?
Use a bright-colored paint or marker for the beak instead of colored pencils.
What if I’m not good at drawing?
Practice and patience are essential. Drawing is a skill learned with time and practice. So, don’t worry if your first attempt is not what you expected it to be.
Can I use charcoal pencils in place of a regular pencil?
Yes, you can use charcoal pencils. The medium is more versatile and offers a range of depth in shading.
Do I need to use all the colors in the toucan’s feathers?
No, you don’t have to use all the colors; just ensure they blend well in harmony.
Can I draw toucans from different angles?
Yes, you can draw toucans from different angles, including front-facing and a side view.
Summary
Drawing a toucan is a fun and rewarding activity for beginners. With this step-by-step guide, you can create a beautiful toucan artwork in no time. Always remember to have patience, practice, and enjoy the process. Happy Drawing!