Instructions
Making an exact replica of a cruise ship is no mean feat, but with a bit of perseverance and lots of patience, you can create an impressive drawing of a cruise ship. Here are some steps to help you on your way.
Step 1: Tidy Outline
Begin with a light sketch of the overall shape of the ship to get the basic structure down on paper. Have a reference image of the cruise ship on hand to help you with the outline. Try to keep the lines simple and avoid smudging. If you want to add any details such as windows or flags now is the time to do it in light hatching.
Step 2: Prepare the Colours
Now that you have a tidy outline of your ship sketch, it’s time to prepare the colours. To get a convincing effect, use a base layer and then an additional layer with highlights and shadows. A good tip is to use slightly darker shades of the same colour.
Step 3: Shading
You need to create the illusion of shade and texture to make the ship look realistic. To do this, use several different pencil grades, ranging from soft to hard. Create a gradual transition of tones with the pencils and finish with a light touch of black charcoal.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Your ship is almost ready! Now it’s time to add the finishing touches. Examine your reference image and figure out where to place white highlights on the hull. Try to get creative in the placement of these highlights for an even more impressive effect. Finally, complete the port and starboard sides of the ship with painted windows and coloured flags.
Step 5: Final Touches
To complete your drawing, add any additional details you want with a fine-tipped brush and some black ink. This can include rivets and other intricate details. Temporarily cover the unwanted highlights with masking tape and intentionally blend the surrounding shades. Finish by erasing any unwanted lines and smudges.
Step 6: Check for Mistakes
Have a look at your drawing from different angles and double check for any mistakes or overlooked details. Make sure that your picture looks the way you want it and all elements of the ship are in the correct order. If everything is as it should be, all that’s left to do is to admire your work and show it off to your friends.
Step 7: Experiment with Your Drawing
Now that you have the basics down, it’s time to experiment a bit. Try to use various pencil grades and colours to get different effects and textures. Carve out a few waves with shading and draw in clouds to create an even more impressive atmosphere. Play around with perspective and make the ship look bigger or smaller depending on the desired effect.
Step 8: Have Fun with the Drawing
Don’t be afraid to have fun with your drawing. Create an environment with some wildlife or ships in the background to give your cruise ship a context. Add some decorations to the ship to make it look more alive and vibrant. Pull out your inner artist and make something that you can be proud of.
